Chamomile Flower Extract
Also known as: Matricaria recutita, Matricaria chamomilla, German chamomile, apigenin
An extract of German chamomile flowers standardized to apigenin, the flavone behind much of its calming reputation. Randomized trials of a pharmaceutical-grade extract in adults with generalized anxiety used 220 to 1,100 mg per day over eight weeks, and a longer study used 1,500 mg per day, both reporting reduced anxiety scores with good tolerability. It is among the gentlest sleep and relaxation botanicals and is familiar to consumers from tea, which helps in gummies and drink mixes.
Research summary
Apigenin binds benzodiazepine sites on GABA-A receptors and modulates monoamine signaling, which is associated with mild anxiolytic and sedative effects.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 220 mg | 220–1,100 mg | 1,500 mg | — |
220 to 1,100 mg per day of a 1.2% apigenin extract, often as 220 mg capsules titrated upward; a long-term trial used 500 mg three times daily. For sleep formulas the full dose is usually taken in the evening. Effects on anxiety were measured over eight to twelve weeks.
Standardization: 1.2% apigenin
Source material: flower extract
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Familiar floral, slightly bitter flavor; works in gummies and drink mixes.
Formulation notes
Ragweed-family plant; note for allergy-sensitive labeling. Commonly paired with lemon balm, magnesium, or melatonin.
Sources
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral Matricaria recutita (chamomile) extract therapy for generalized anxiety disorder. (Amsterdam 2009)PubMed
- Long-term chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) treatment for generalized anxiety disorder: A randomized clinical trial. (Mao 2016)PubMed
- Chamomile — ExamineExamine
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