Botanical name
Matricaria recutita
Also known as .
An excellent digestive and relaxing remedy, and effective antispasmodic. Chamomile has a powerful effect on the nervous system, helping alleviate psychological anxiety and physiological symptoms of stress.
Learn about Chamomile
One of the world's most beloved medicinal herbs, Chamomile has been used for centuries as a soothing tea and gentle household remedy. Renowned for its calming nature, it is traditionally used to support the nervous and digestive systems, making it an ideal herb whenever stress, tension or irritation are present.
Chamomile is a classic digestive herb, helping to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract and ease bloating, indigestion, cramping and wind. Its gentle antispasmodic properties make it especially useful for digestive discomfort associated with stress or nervous tension.
Perhaps best known for its calming effects, Chamomile has long been valued to ease feelings of anxiousness, promote relaxation and support restful sleep. Modern research suggests it may help reduce symptoms of mild anxiety and improve sleep quality, particularly where stress is a contributing factor.
Beyond its internal uses, Chamomile is also a wonderful topical herb. Used as a cooled compress, wash or infused in creams and balms, it has traditionally been applied to soothe irritated, inflamed or sensitive skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it a popular addition to herbal preparations for minor skin irritations. As a warm facial steam, Chamomile has traditionally been used to help ease temporary sinus congestion during colds and seasonal allergies.
Gentle enough for the whole family, Chamomile has a long history of traditional use to soothe children's restlessness, teething discomfort and digestive upset. It has also earned the nickname "the plant physician" among gardeners, with folklore suggesting it helps neighbouring plants thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which herbs should I use for anxiety?
Which herbs should I use for anxiety?
For anxiety support, some of the best herbs include calming nervines which directly soothe the nervous system to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, and adaptogens which help the body build long-term resilience to stress and balance overall mood and energy.
Some of our favourite herbs for anxiety include:
- Passionflower: Calms nervous tension and supports restful sleep.
- Lemon Balm: Gently uplifts mood and soothes the digestive system.
- Chamomile: Provides gentle relaxation and eases irritability.
- Kava: Deeply relaxes and helps with social anxiety (use cautiously).
- Skullcap: Supports nervous system recovery and eases mental overwhelm.
- Damiana: Uplifts mood, reduces social anxiety and opens the heart
- Blue Lily (Blue Lotus) – Mildly euphoric and heart-opening
- Ashwagandha: Builds long-term resilience to stress and balances adrenal function.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil): Uplifts mood and promotes emotional balance.
- Rhodiola: Energizes while reducing stress-related mental fatigue.
Choosing the right herb depends on your specific anxiety symptoms—whether you need gentle calming, mood support, adrenal balance, or social ease.
Common Uses
Allergies, Breastfeeding, Childbirth, Cold & Flu, Colic, Dermatitis, Diabetes, Eczema, Fever, Children, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Harm Reduction from Cannabis, Harm Reduction from Opiates/Alcohol, Headache, Heart Palpitations, Indigestion, Infections, Inflammation, Miscarriage, Nausea, Nervous System, Nicotine & Drug Withdrawal, Pain, Relaxation, Restlessness, Stress, Tension, Trauma (Emotional), and Upset Stomach.Herbal Actions
Anodyne, Anti-Inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antispasmodic, Anxiolytic (Anti-Anxiety), Bitter Tonic, Carminative, Nervine, Vulnerary, Diaphoretic, and Sedative.Recipes
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Precautions
Avoid if allergic to Asteraceae/Compositae plants chrysanthemums, daisies, marigolds, ragweed.
Precautions
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Chamomile 1:2 Liquid Herb
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References
David Hoffman (2003), Medical Herbalism, pp. 565
Mathew Wood (2008) The Earthwise Herbal pp. 177.




