Usually when you think about chamomile tea, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? Little white flowers with a beautiful yellow center steeped in water and their many amazing health benefits? Well, if that is the case, then you’re in for a surprise – Say hi to chamomile tea side effects; there aren’t many, but it’s always good to know about them before you sip on your favorite herbal beverage.
Chamomile Tea Side Effects
Side effects of chamomile tea include allergic reactions to ragweed or pollen allergies, which may cause hay fever, dermatitis, and more. According to NIH chamomile and its products apart from allergies may cause various drug interactions and drowsiness. [1] [2]
Let us take a detailed look at them below.
Drowsiness
Although chamomile tea is effective in the treatment of insomnia, it is advised to completely avoid drinking this tea before driving, operating heavy machinery, or going for an important meeting. Its otherwise sedative and soothing effects can lead to drowsiness. Excessive consumption of this tea may also cause vomiting and nausea.
A soothing cup of chamomile tea is great for putting yourself to sleep. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Allergic Reactions
If you’re allergic to a plant in the Asteraceae or daisy (Compositae) family, which includes feverfew, echinacea, ragweed, dandelions, calendula, arnica, sunflowers, marigold, chrysanthemums, or asters, then there is a high probability that you’re also allergic to chamomile.
Drinking chamomile tea, when you’re allergic to the flower, can cause respiratory distress, skin reactions, throat swelling, and in severe cases, even anaphylactic shock.
Topical use of chamomile should also be restricted in case of an allergy. Those suffering from dermatitis, hay fever, and hives are advised to consult their doctor before adding this tea to their diet. [3]
Drug Interactions
Chamomile tea has been shown to have a negative response when taken with anticoagulant drugs, such as heparin, warfarin, clopidogrel, ticlopidine or pentoxifylline. This is due to the natural blood thinning compounds present in this tea, which can cause a threat of internal bleeding.
To prevent any loss of blood, chamomile tea should also be avoided prior to a surgery. [4]
Chamomile tea can also interact with other medications as and when they metabolize in the body, so certain caution is advised. It can cause a drop in your blood sugar levels and may also interact with birth control pills.
Pregnancy & Lactation Phase
As chamomile tea is a uterine stimulant, it increases the risk of miscarriage for pregnant women. Although there is no significant research into the toxic nature of chamomile tea for breastfeeding women, it is best to consult your doctor before consuming this tea.
Having discussed all of the side effects of chamomile tea, don’t forget to take a look at its many wonderful benefits, which, more or less, overshadow the side effects! Just a little bit of caution and you’re good to sip this tea.
