Chamomile tea is known to remedy several health problems such as insomnia, gastrointestinal disorders, muscle spasms, common cold, inflammation, and menstrual disorders. This traditional herbal medicine has been around for centuries and its preparations are used widely in cosmetics and aromatherapy.
However, as with every medicine, you may experience some side effects from chamomile.
The FDA has categorized chamomile as GRAS i.e. generally recognized as safe. However you should know about the following side effects if you are drinking chamomile tea.
Chamomile tea can have allergic reactions
Chamomile is known to have allergic reactions in some people. If you are allergic to ragweed, dandelions, marigolds, daisies, asters, chrysanthemums or any other plants of the Compositae family, then you are likely to be allergic to chamomile.
It may not be pregnancy-friendly
You should avoid drinking chamomile tea if you are expecting or breastfeeding. There is no significant research confirming this, nonetheless, it is advised that you consult with your physician first before drinking it if you are pregnant.
It may induce drowsiness
Chamomile tea has been used as a mild sedative for a long time. Drinking a cup before going to bed is a good idea but you might want to avoid drinking it before driving.
It may cause vomiting
Drinking 1-4 cups of chamomile tea daily is beneficial. But, be aware that too much of anything is never good. You might want to limit your daily intake to under 4-5 cups as excessive consumption of is known to cause nausea and vomiting.
References:
- http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/roman-chamomile
- https://www.greenteasource.com/chamomile
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/
I am a tea enthusiast and have been researching different types of teas including chamomile tea, brewing methods and recipes.
