Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as German chamomile, is a traditional plant used in various cultures, particularly in Anatolia for respiratory conditions. It has been traditionally employed to alleviate restlessness and mild sleep problems, as well as to address digestive discomfort. While there are historical uses noted in southern Iran for anxiety and neurasthenia, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy in these areas is limited compared to other herbs like St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). A review of herbal mouthwashes found that Matricaria chamomilla was effective in reducing plaque and gingival inflammation, showing similar results to other species used for oral health. No significant drug interactions or major safety concerns have been reported with the use of this plant.
- Traditionally for
- restlessness and mild sleep problems · digestive discomfort (traditional)
- Traditions
- Western phytotherapy
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
Traditional use
What the science says
- Matricaria chamomilla is among the key species identified in traditional Anatolian remedies for respiratory conditions, though specific health effects are not quantified in this study.
- The review suggests limited robust clinical evidence for Matricaria chamomilla's efficacy in anxiety and depression compared to Hypericum perforatum and Melissa officinalis.
- All three herbal mouthwashes showed similar clinical effects on reducing plaque and gingival inflammation, with no significant differences among them.
- Matricaria chamomilla was one of the most commonly used herbs among adults in southern Iran, often for anxiety/neurasthenia.
Frequently asked questions
What is Matricaria chamomilla?
Matricaria chamomilla (Matricaria chamomilla) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is Matricaria chamomilla traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record Matricaria chamomilla for: restlessness and mild sleep problems, digestive discomfort (traditional). This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use Matricaria chamomilla?
Matricaria chamomilla appears in these traditions in our sources: Western phytotherapy.
What does the scientific evidence say about Matricaria chamomilla?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Matricaria chamomilla; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Matricaria chamomilla is among the key species identified in traditional Anatolian remedies for respiratory conditions, though specific health effects are not quantified in this study.
How strong is the evidence for Matricaria chamomilla?
The strongest finding for Matricaria chamomilla carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Matricaria chamomilla safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Matricaria chamomilla in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Matricaria chamomilla interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Matricaria chamomilla in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Matricaria chamomilla?
Matricaria chamomilla is also known as: ромашка аптечная.
Is Matricaria chamomilla a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T1 EMA HMPC monograph: Matricaria chamomilla © EU/EMA — reproduced with attribution
- T2 Comparative Clinical Evaluation of Chamomile, Sage, and Ginger Mouthwashes in Reducing Plaque and Gingival Inflammation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Wild Flora Species from Romania with Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Potential: A Global Perspective-Narrative Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Traditional Respiratory Remedies From Anatolia: Ethnobotanical Insights and Bioactive Properties. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Use of medicinal herbs in an Iranian population: cross-sectional findings from the Fasa PERSIAN Cohort Study. literature abstract metadata