Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla and Chamaemelum nobile) has a long history of traditional use for promoting relaxation and sleep. More recently, scientific interest has focused on its interaction with the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system, which is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter system in the central nervous system and is involved in regulating anxiety, stress, and sleep. Several preclinical studies have demonstrated that apigenin, a flavonoid compound found in chamomile, can bind to benzodiazepine receptors on GABA_A receptors, suggesting a mechanism similar to some anti-anxiety medications. In animal models, chamomile extracts and apigenin have shown anxiolytic and mild sedative effects, likely mediated by modulation of GABAergic neurotransmission.

Human clinical data are limited but promising. A 2009 randomized controlled trial found that chamomile extract was associated with modest reductions in symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder compared to placebo. However, the studies to date often use small sample sizes and standardized extracts, making it difficult to generalize results to all chamomile preparations. Overall, there is moderate scientific evidence to support the use of chamomile as a mild anxiolytic and sleep aid via GABAergic pathways, but more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects and clarify optimal dosing and preparations.

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