28 Beauty & Health Benefits Of Chamomile Tea & Oil – Its Uses & Warnings

Chamomile is known as the common name for some daisy-like plants belonging to the family Asteraceae. The flowering heads of these plants are collected and then dried for use as extracts and teas that provide various medicinal purposes. Find out more about the amazing beauty and health benefits of chamomile tea and oil on TrueRemedies.

Medically reviewed/fact checked by Alexandra Dusenberry, MS, RDN:

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Chamomile Tea And Oil – Its Beauty And Health Benefits, Uses, And Warnings

I. What Is Chamomile?

Family: Asteraceae (daisy)

Scientific names: Matricaria recutita 

Common names: Chamomile is known for two species: Matricaria recutita is called Hungarian, German, genuine, or wild chamomile. And Chamaemelum nobile is often known as Roman, Scotch, English, garden, lawn, true, sweet, or common chamomile.

Other Names: Anthémis, Anthemis nobilis, Anthémis Odorante, Babuna Ke Phool, Camomille Noble, Camomille d’Anjou, Camomille Romaine, Chamomilla, Chamomile, Fleur de Camomille Romaine, Chamomillae Ramane Flos, Flores Anthemidis, Grosse Kamille, Low Chamomile, Ground Apple, Manzanilla, Ormenis Nobilis, Manzanilla Romana, Roman Chamomile Essential Oil, Whig Plant, Romische Kamille.

II.  Beauty And Health Benefits Of Chamomile And Its Uses

Chamomile has been used as an ancient medicinal herb known to humans. It is also regarded as one of the most widely used and well-documented medicinal herbs in the world. Besides, it has been recommended for treating a variety of diseases. Various preparations of the chamomile have been used over the years, in which the herbal tea form is the most popular preparation, with over one million cups consumed daily^[1].

Regarded to be the most ancient and versatile oils, chamomile essential oil is used to treat various conditions thanks to its high content of esters, which offer the antispasmodic effects. Today, it is widely used in treating nervous system problems, heartburn, eczema, fever, gout, insomnia, and anxiety^[2].

Check out the following beauty and health benefits of chamomile tea and oil.

A. Health Benefits Of Chamomile

1. Prevent Cancer

According to several studies, chamomile provides promising growth inhibitory effects on preclinical models of skin, ovarian, prostate, and breast cancer. In a 2007 study at the Case Western Reserve University, using extracts of chamomile showed a minimal growth inhibitory effect on the normal cells and significant reductions in cell viability in the cancer cell lines in humans. This study is considered as one of the first reported demonstrations of the anticancer benefits of chamomile^[3]. 

Another study evaluated the benefits of a newly developed agent containing six standardized extracts (Panax ginseng, reishi mushroom, green tea, cranberry, grape skin, and chamomile) on the prostate cancer cells in rats. Treating prostate cancer with this botanical mixture led to a dosage-dependent inhibition of the growth of cancerous cells. All groups of rats bearing tumors showed significant inhibition of the lymph node metastasis and growth of tumors^[4]. Also, the botanical agent was safe to use and didn't cause any side effects when used in a high dose.

2. Treat Sore Throat

Chamomile tea is a great natural solution for a sore throat. As stated by a review article, chamomile may help lubricate the throat, which may ward off pain and hoarseness^[5]. Some study reviews also have indicated that inhaling chamomile steam may help reduce cold symptoms, including a sore throat. Chamomile tea comes with anti-inflammatory properties to lower swelling and redness. It additionally has antioxidant effects, which are beneficial for tissue repair. Its antispasmodic action might also decrease cough. 

3. Promote Heart Health

Chamomile offers cardiovascular protection thanks to its high content of flavonoids, which were shown to significantly reduce mortality from coronary heart disease if taken internally^[6]. Thanks to the flavonoids in chamomile essential oil, it lowers blood pressure and gives the heart a relaxing effect.
To promote heart health, you can apply 2 to 4 drops of chamomile oil topically over your heart or also take internally by putting it under your tongue.

4. Treat Canker Sores 

Chamomile is a natural remedy that helps heal wounds and soothe the pain. German chamomile has two compounds with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory abilities: levomenol and azulene. Besides, a chamomile tea bag can function as a compress to deal with canker sores. For this remedy, take a wet chamomile tea bag and apply it to your canker sore. Wait for several minutes and then use freshly brewed chamomile tea to rinse your mouth. Reapply it 3-4 times daily.

5. Alleviate PMS Symptoms

Chamomile essential oil works as a great natural mood booster, which aids in reducing the feelings of depression. Plus, its antispasmodic effects help to soothe menstrual cramps and body aches related to PMS, such as headaches and back pain^[7]. Its relaxant activity makes it a valuable treatment for PMS symptoms while it can also help to clear up acne that appears due to hormone fluctuations^[8].

6. Reduce Snoring

Chamomile possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing abilities that can help you sleep without snoring^[9]. For this treatment, add a chamomile tea bag or a tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers to one cup of steaming hot water. Leave it to steep for a couple of minutes, strain and consume before sleeping. You can also add 1-2 teaspoons of raw organic honey to this tea.

7.  Relieve Menstrual Cramps 

Studies have pointed out that chamomile tea is enriched with compounds that may help to eliminate menstrual cramps and bloating^[10] [11]. It can increase glycine in the body, a chemical that alleviates muscle spasms and helps your body relax because it works as a nerve relaxant. Along with that, it stimulates blood flow in the uterus and pelvis, thus regulating irregular periods.

8. Fight Anxiety 

Chamomile essential oil is used as a mild sedative that helps to calm down nerves and relieve anxiety by promoting relaxation. Inhaling chamomile oil is one of the most useful ways to reduce anxiety. Its aroma is carried directly to your brain and then serves as an excellently emotional trigger. The research shows that chamomile oil has been used for relieving depression and anxiety symptoms on the world, including the regions in Sardinia, Morocco, Brazil and southern Italy^[12]. 

According to a study in the Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine in 2013, aromatherapy essential oil combination including lavender, neroli, and chamomile helps to reduce anxiety levels in patients. The aromatherapy remedy effectively lowers anxiety levels and improves the patients’ sleep quality in ICU as compared to the conventional nursing intervention^[13]. 

9. Treat Tonsillitis

Chamomile tea mixed with honey and lemon is an age-old natural treatment for tonsillitis. It functions as a relaxant and lowers stress and anxiety caused due to tonsillitis, along with soothing the symptoms of the condition, such as soreness and pain^[14].

10. Relieve Arthritic Pain 

According to a study in humans published in the Die Pharmazie in 1994, chamomile flavonoids and essential oils may easily penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. This is very important for using it as a topical anti-inflammatory agent that effectively helps to relieve arthritic pain. As applied topically or included in a warm water bath, chamomile oil aids in easing the pain in the knees, lower back, fingers, wrists, and other problematic areas^[15]. 

11. Treat Insomnia

The relaxing properties present in chamomile promote sound sleep and combat insomnia. As stated by a study in the International Journal of Aromatherapy in 2006, the volunteers who inhale chamomile oil reported more calmness and drowsiness, which demonstrates its effects on improving sleep and helping to enter a restful state. Moreover, inhalation of chamomile helps to lower an increase in the levels of plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone, induced by stress^[16]. 

In 2005, the Journal of Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin published a study of “Hypnotic activities of chamomile and passiflora extracts in sleep-disturbed rats.” The results showed that the chamomile extract exhibited a hypnotic activity like the benzodiazepine. A remarkable decrease in the periods of time to fall asleep was seen in rats that received chamomile extracts at a dosage of 300 mg/kilogram of their body weight^[17]. 

12. Treat Acid Reflux

According to in-vitro and animal studies, chamomile has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents^[18]. Acid reflux will cause stomach acid to move backwards into the esophagus. This often results in painful inflammation in the esophagus. Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory abilities may help.

13. Treat Sleep Disorders

Chamomile tea has been used as an excellent natural remedy for years to lower anxiety and inflammation and treat insomnia. It acts as a sleep inducer or mild tranquilizers. Besides, it is rich in an antioxidant called apigenin, which exerts calming effects. Apigenin binds to receptors in the brain, which may reduce anxiety and initiate sleep^[19].

14. Support Digestive Health

Chamomile is traditionally used for treating a lot of gastrointestinal problems, including digestive disorders. Chamomile oil consists of anodyne compounds, which are antispasmodic and may be used to relieve or even treat digestive conditions, such as acid reflux, indigestion, gas, leaky gut, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is especially beneficial in soothing the stomach, relaxing the muscles, and dispelling gas. Therefore, food may move through your intestines more easily^[20]. The relaxing properties present in the chamomile may also be taken internally and used topically to treat nausea. 

To reduce nausea, inhale the chamomile oil directly from the bottle. You may also combine it with peppermint, lavender, and ginger oil and diffuse. 

15. Deal With Diarrhea

Chamomile tea is renowned for its calming and soothing effects, which may help soothe an upset stomach. It further boasts antibacterial and antiviral effects that may help to get rid of harmful pathogens and parasites, causing diarrhea in the first place^[21]. According to a study, a combination of myrrh, chamomile, and coffee charcoal helped to deal with acute diarrhea caused due to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and irritable bowel syndrome^[22].

16. Remedy For Colic

According to a study in 1997, 79 children suffering from acute, non-complicated diarrhea ended sooner when treated with chamomile & pectin for 3 days compared to the placebo group. The results give evidence that using chamomile can be safe on children as a natural remedy for upset stomachs and colic^[23]. 

For calming children, diffuse the chamomile oil or dilute 1 to 2 drops of this oil with coconut oil and then apply this oil mixture to the temples, wrists, stomach, bottoms of the feet, or back of the neck.

17. Combat Sleep Apnea

Drinking chamomile tea may help sleep apnea because it possesses certain compounds that can help relax your nerves and muscles that promote sleepiness^[24]. You can prepare chamomile tea by adding two tablespoons of chamomile to a cup of hot water and allowing it to steep for five minutes. Then, enjoy it before sleeping for the best results.

18. Treat Restless Leg Syndrome

Chamomile essential oil is anti-neuralgic, analgesic, and antispasmodic, which is beneficial for treating muscle pains and aches. Furthermore, it is naturally calming, making it a powerful essential oil for treating restless leg syndrome. For this remedy, pour four drops of chamomile oil into two cups cold or hot water. Mix well and immerse a cotton towel in the mixture. Then, wrap the towel around your affected areas. 

19. Soothe Dry Eyes

Thanks to its relaxing and calming effects, chamomile can help relieve inflamed and dry eyes. Besides, it contains anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help replenish the lost moisture in your eyes and decrease the irritation caused due to the condition^[25]. To relieve dry eyes, you take one teaspoon of dried chamomile herb and add it to one cup of hot water. Leave it to steep for ten minutes, strain, and cool in a refrigerator. Soak several cotton pads in chilled tea and place them on the closed eyes. Wait for around 10-15 minutes. For quick results, follow this method 3 to 4 times daily.

20. Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Both chamomile tea and oil can serve as a “herbal aspirin” because it reduces pain related to a wide range of issues, including carpal tunnel syndrome^[26]. It can decrease the pain, swelling, and redness associated with this condition due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming a cup of warm chamomile tea before your bedtime will help you treat carpal tunnel syndrome effectively.

B. Beauty Benefits Of Chamomile

21. Boost Skin Health

Chamomile promotes healthy, smooth skin, and reduces irritations thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It also has been used as an excellent remedy for eczema, ulcers, gout, wounds, skin irritations, canker sores, bruises, burns, and skin conditions such as cracked nipples, ear and eye infections, chickenpox, diaper rash, and poison ivy^[27].  

To get rid of acne, fight the signs of aging, and treat skin conditions, add 2 to 3 drops of chamomile oil to a cotton ball and then apply it to the affected area. Or, add five drops of this oil to your face wash. If your skin is very sensitive, dilute chamomile oil with any carrier oil before using it topically.

22. Treat Rosacea

Chamomile cold compresses are effective at treating rosacea. Chamomile is a great ingredient since it consists of many active components that can help lower inflammation. As stated by a study, a chamomile-based cream may help treat moderate rosacea^[28].

To make a chamomile compress, you steep two chamomile tea bags in warm water for 30 seconds. Then, pat it dry and place it on your affected areas for ten minutes.  

23. Banish Eczema

Chamomile is well known for its anti-inflammatory abilities that can help eliminate eczema discomfort^[29]. For this treatment, you steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for five minutes and allow it to cool at room temperature. Then, place it on the skin for 20 minutes. Follow this method thrice a day. 

24. Banish Rashes

Chamomile is ideal for getting rid of rashes. It helps to relieve itching, reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and promote healing since it is rich in anti-irritant, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Dip a cloth in chamomile tea and then place it on your affected skin as a compress. You can repeat twice to thrice a day. Moreover, chamomile is applied to the affected region by diluting several drops in about 2-3 teaspoons of coconut oil.

25. Remove Stretch Marks

Chamomile tea helps to remove stretch marks. This is because it embraces anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to fade away every skin related issue, whether it is stains or stretch marks.

26. Remove Dark Circles Under Eyes

Chamomile tea bags can be beneficial for reducing puffiness and dark circles around the eyes due to its anti-inflammatory abilities. One quick way to eliminate dark circles under your eyes is to boil some water and then place two bags of chamomile tea in it. Take the bags out after they have cooled completely and start placing them under your eyes for five minutes.

27. Treat Split Ends

Chamomile is a brilliant ingredient for treating split, dry and frizzy hair. It is renowned with its antiseptic properties that banish the dead cells to make your hair grow properly. Thus, regular use of chamomile can help to inhibit split ends since it keeps the scalp and hair clean. All you need to do is to soak 2-3 chamomile tea bags in enough boiling water and leave it to cool. After that, rinse your hair with this water. 

28. Promote Healthy Hair

Using chamomile tea helps promote healthier, shinier hair. Besides, anti-inflammatory compounds present in it can alleviate dry, itchy scalp that can cause dandruff. It is also a natural hair lightener, so applying the brew to your scalp will help you achieve highlights or lighter hair. To obtain these benefits, you just need to use cold chamomile tea to rinse your hair in the shower.

III. What Are The Side Effects Of Using Chamomile?

Chamomile is likely safe for most people to take by mouth in food and as medicine. In large amounts, it may cause vomiting. Also, people who are sensitive to ragweed, daisies, marigolds, or similar herbs may get an allergic reaction^[30].

The chamomile oil is also safe to inhale or apply to the skin.

Special Precautions And Warnings

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Chamomile is likely unsafe to take by mouth in medicinal amounts during pregnancy. Chamomile is proven to cause miscarriages. 

It is better to avoid using chamomile if you’re breastfeeding. There is not enough information to know about how it may affect a nursing infant.

There is also not enough evidence to know about the safety of using it on the skin during pregnancy. So, avoid using it if you’re pregnant.

Allergy to ragweed and similar plants: Chamomile can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to the members of the Compositae/Asteraceae family, including ragweed, marigolds, daisies, chrysanthemums, and many others. If you’ve allergies, ensure to check with a healthcare provider before having chamomile.

IV. Where To Buy Chamomile

You may find chamomile as an infusion (tea), tinctures (concentrated in alcohol), dried flower heads, essential oil, liquid extract, and in ointments and creams. The most common form is tea bags, and you can find it at the grocery stores and pharmacies.

When using chamomile essential oil internally, you should choose a high-quality brand that is 100 % pure grade and produced by a trustworthy & reputable company.

Amazing? How a natural ingredient can have such effects on your overall health and beauty? Start using chamomile tea and oil lead a happy, beautiful, and healthy life! Do you know any of the other benefits of chamomile for health, skin, and hair? Do let us know in by dropping your comment in the box below.