The daisy-like flower of this herb is dried and used as tea or in an extract.

Medicinal Claims: People most often take chamomile as a mild sedative. People sometimes take chamomile by mouth to relieve stomach cramps and indigestion or apply a compress of chamomile extract to soothe irritated skin.

Possible Side Effects: Chamomile is generally considered safe. The most likely side effect is an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions may include skin irritation, itchy eyes, sneezing, and runny nose. People very rarely have a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). In high doses, chamomile may lead to drowsiness, sedation, and vomiting.

Chamomile may reduce the absorption of drugs taken by mouth. Chamomile may also increase the effects of drugs that prevent blood clots (anticoagulants) and sedatives (including alcohol) and decrease the absorption of iron supplements.

Last full review/revision February 2009 by Ara DerMarderosian, PhD