What does this rating mean?
Chamomile is a type of plant with small, daisy-like flowers. It is sold as a supplement in tablet form and the flowers can be dried and used to make herbal tea.
The way that chamomile may work to relieve depression is unknown. It is thought that chamomile may boost chemicals in the brain that can affect mood, such as serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline. These are natural chemical messengers that are present in the brain, and it is thought that boosting these chemicals can be helpful in depression.
While there is some evidence to suggest that chamomile might be helpful or people who have anxiety, there is very little scientific evidence on chamomile for the treatment of depression. More studies of better quality are needed to understand the effectiveness of chamomile in depression.
Chamomile supplements can have side effects, although they are not associated with any more side effects than a placebo (dummy pill). Dietary supplements, including chamomile, may have negative interactions with prescribed medications or other supplements. As with any herbal supplements, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist if chamomile might interfere with other medications or supplements you are taking.
Chamomile tea is widely available at health food shops and supermarkets. Other chamomile supplements, including tablets, may be available from health food shops.
There is not enough good evidence at this stage to recommend chamomile as a treatment for depression.
Last updated and reviewed: 21 August 2023
These treatments are very useful. They are strongly supported as effective by scientific evidence.
These treatments are useful. They are supported by scientific evidence as effective, but the evidence is not as strong.
These treatments are promising and may be useful. They have some evidence to support them, but more evidence is needed to be sure they work.
