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Organic Chamomile Extract

Also known as: Chamomile, German chamomile, Organic Chamomile Extract, Matricaria recutita, Matricaria chamomilla

Overview

Organic Chamomile Extract is derived from the dried flowers of Matricaria chamomilla, a plant native to Europe and Western Asia, widely cultivated for its medicinal properties. It contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids (apigenin), terpenoids, and essential oils. Traditionally used for anxiety, sleep disorders (insomnia), digestive issues, and inflammation, in supplement form, it is primarily marketed for its calming and sleep-enhancing effects. Chamomile has mild sedative, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties. It is often consumed as tea or standardized extracts. The research maturity level for chamomile is moderate, with multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses available, though some outcomes show mixed results. Several high-quality RCTs and meta-analyses have been conducted, with some limitations in sample size and heterogeneity of study designs.

Benefits

Chamomile extract has demonstrated evidence-based benefits primarily for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and sleep quality. A meta-analysis of 12 RCTs showed significant improvement in GAD symptoms after 2 and 4 weeks of chamomile treatment, with mean differences on the HAM-A scale of -1.43 (95% CI [-2.47, -0.39], p=0.007) and -1.79 (95% CI [-3.14, -0.43], p=0.0097), respectively. Significant improvement in sleep quality was also observed (standardized mean difference = -0.73, 95% CI [-1.23, -0.23], p<0.005). These effects are modest but statistically significant, with clinical relevance depending on baseline severity and individual response. Improvements typically appear after 2 to 4 weeks of continuous use. While there is little evidence supporting efficacy for state anxiety and insomnia severity, some studies suggest mild analgesic effects (e.g., in osteoarthritis) and antimicrobial properties. Preliminary data in elderly and postpartum women suggest improved sleep quality, but larger RCTs are needed for confirmation.

How it works

Chamomile's primary mechanism of action involves its flavonoid apigenin, which binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the central nervous system. This interaction exerts mild sedative and anxiolytic effects. It acts on GABAergic neurotransmission, thereby modulating anxiety and sleep regulation pathways. Beyond its effects on the nervous system, chamomile also exhibits systemic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The oral bioavailability of its active flavonoids is moderate, and absorption can be influenced by the specific formulation and the presence of other dietary components.

Side effects

Organic Chamomile Extract is generally regarded as safe, with adverse events being mild and infrequent. Common side effects are rare but can include mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may involve mild drowsiness or, in rare cases, allergic dermatitis. Rare side effects (<1%) include hypersensitivity reactions, particularly in individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, marigolds, daisies). Caution is advised regarding drug interactions: chamomile may have additive sedative effects when taken with other CNS depressants. Due to its mild antiplatelet effects, caution is also recommended for individuals on anticoagulant medications. Contraindications include known allergy to chamomile or related plants. Limited safety data in pregnancy suggest caution for pregnant individuals. While promising, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and safety in peripartum and postpartum women.

Dosage

Studies on chamomile extract dosage vary, but typical effective doses range from 220 mg to 1100 mg daily, often divided into multiple doses. For anxiety and sleep benefits, an optimal dosage range is generally considered to be around 400-1100 mg/day of a standardized extract. The maximum safe dose is not well established, but doses up to 1100 mg/day have been used safely in clinical trials. Benefits are typically observed after 2-4 weeks of consistent daily intake. For consistent dosing, extracts standardized to apigenin content are preferred over less standardized forms like teas. Absorption of active flavonoids may be enhanced when taken with fat-containing meals. No specific cofactors are required for its efficacy.

FAQs

Is chamomile safe long-term?

Chamomile is generally considered safe for long-term use, but extensive long-term safety data are limited. Mild side effects are rare and typically minor.

How soon will I see results?

Improvements in anxiety symptoms and sleep quality are typically observed after 2 to 4 weeks of consistent daily use.

Can I take chamomile with other medications?

Caution is advised when combining chamomile with sedatives due to potential additive effects, and with blood thinners due to mild antiplatelet effects. Always consult a healthcare provider.

Does chamomile cure insomnia?

While chamomile can significantly improve sleep quality, current evidence does not support it as a definitive cure for clinical insomnia.

Is organic chamomile better?

Organic certification ensures the absence of pesticides and harmful chemicals, which is beneficial for overall health, but it does not inherently affect the efficacy of the chamomile extract itself.

Research Sources

  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31006899/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 RCTs found that chamomile significantly improved symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and sleep quality. However, it showed no significant effect on state anxiety or insomnia severity. The study concluded that chamomile is generally safe with mild adverse events, but noted limitations due to the small number of RCTs for some outcomes and heterogeneity in study designs.
  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40314057/ – This systematic review focused on chamomile use in peripartum and postpartum women. It found preliminary evidence suggesting chamomile's safety and some efficacy for improving sleep and mood in this population. However, the authors highlighted that the data were limited by small sample sizes and varying study quality, recommending the need for further large-scale randomized controlled trials.
  • https://sciendo.com/es/article/10.2478/aoas-2023-0062?tab=references – This source provides references for various studies on chamomile, including those suggesting mild analgesic and antimicrobial properties. While not a direct study, it supports the broader understanding of chamomile's diverse effects beyond anxiety and sleep, indicating its potential in other therapeutic areas.
  • https://fullscript.com/blog/chamomile – This article provides a general overview of chamomile's benefits, usage, and safety. It reinforces the traditional and modern uses of chamomile for anxiety and sleep, and discusses its mechanism of action, aligning with the information on apigenin and GABAergic pathways. It serves as a good summary of current understanding and practical applications.
  • https://getjupiter.com/pages/organic-chamomile – This commercial page offers information on organic chamomile, emphasizing its calming properties and benefits for sleep. While a commercial source, it generally aligns with the scientific consensus on chamomile's primary uses and highlights the importance of organic sourcing for purity.

Supplements Containing Organic Chamomile Extract

Tummy Tonic by GaiaKids
70

Tummy Tonic

GaiaKids

Score: 70/100
Tummy Tonic by GaiaKids
83

Tummy Tonic

GaiaKids

Score: 83/100
Calm A.S.A.P. with Passionflower by Gaia Herbs
73

Calm A.S.A.P. with Passionflower

Gaia Herbs

Score: 73/100
Good Night Herbal Complex by Sundown Organics
67

Good Night Herbal Complex

Sundown Organics

Score: 67/100
Sweet Dreams Liquid Drops by BareOrganics
63

Sweet Dreams Liquid Drops

BareOrganics

Score: 63/100
Platinum Series Restore Sleep with Herbs by Garden of Life Dr. Formulated
63

Platinum Series Restore Sleep with Herbs

Garden of Life Dr. Formulated

Score: 63/100
MUD\WTR :rest by MUD\WTR®
48

MUD\WTR :rest

MUD\WTR®

Score: 48/100
NIGHTLY SLEEP Gummies by EQUILIBRIA
65

NIGHTLY SLEEP Gummies

EQUILIBRIA

Score: 65/100

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