What Is Chamomile Tea Good For? Benefits and Side Effects

Chamomile tea is a caffeine-free herbal infusion traditionally used to support digestion, relaxation and sleep. It's one of the most widely used herbal teas, and while research is still developing, several small studies support some of its traditional uses.

Benefits of Chamomile Tea

May Support Sleep

Chamomile is commonly used before bed. Some research suggests it has mild calming effects, though evidence that it meaningfully improves overall sleep quality is still limited.

May Ease Stress and Anxiety

Small studies have looked at chamomile extract for mild anxiety symptoms, with some finding modest benefits. More research is needed to confirm how well the tea itself compares to concentrated extracts.

May Support Digestion

Chamomile is traditionally used to ease gas, bloating and stomach discomfort. Animal studies have found it may help protect against stomach irritation, though human evidence is more limited.

May Help With Menstrual Discomfort

Chamomile's mild anti-inflammatory properties are one reason it's sometimes used to help with menstrual cramps. If cramps are severe, talk to your doctor rather than relying on tea alone. For more tea options, see our guide to teas for menstrual cramps.

Good for Skin (Topical Use)

A cooled chamomile tea bag applied to the skin is a traditional remedy for mild irritation and puffiness, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Chamomile Tea, Pregnancy and Babies

Chamomile's safety during pregnancy and for infants isn't fully settled, and sources disagree. Rather than repeat conflicting advice here, see our dedicated guide on chamomile tea and pregnancy. Don't give chamomile or any other herbal tea to a baby without asking your pediatrician first, and check with your doctor before drinking it while pregnant.

How to Make Chamomile Tea

Ingredients

• 1 cup water (250 ml)
• 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
• Honey or sweetener, to taste

Preparation

1. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the chamomile flowers and let steep for 5–10 minutes.
3. Strain and sweeten if desired.

Side Effects and Who Should Avoid It

• Allergies: Chamomile is part of the ragweed family, so people allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds or daisies are more likely to react to it.
• Pregnancy: Talk to your doctor before drinking chamomile regularly if you're pregnant or trying to conceive.
• Drowsiness: Because it's mildly sedating, avoid combining it with sedative medications without medical advice.
• Eye irritation: Chamomile-based cosmetics can occasionally cause eye irritation with direct contact.
• Medication interactions: Interactions between chamomile and warfarin, a blood thinner, have been reported; check with your doctor if you take it or any other medication.

Related guides: chamomile tea with honey and teas for acid reflux.

FAQ

Does chamomile tea have caffeine?

No. Chamomile is naturally caffeine-free.

Can I drink chamomile tea while breastfeeding?

Chamomile is generally considered a reasonable choice in moderation while breastfeeding, but confirm with your doctor, especially if you drink it often.

How much chamomile tea can I drink in a day?

Two to three cups a day is a common amount in traditional use, but check with your doctor if you're pregnant, on medication, or have allergies.

The Bottom Line

Chamomile tea is a gentle, caffeine-free option that may help with sleep, stress and digestion, though the research behind it is still developing. It's not a treatment for any medical condition, so talk to your doctor before relying on it, especially during pregnancy or for a baby.