Is chamomile considered an intoxicant?

From the Guidelines

Chamomile is not considered an intoxicant. Chamomile is an herb commonly used in teas and supplements that does not produce intoxication effects like alcohol or recreational drugs. It contains compounds like apigenin that have mild sedative and calming properties, but these do not impair cognitive function or motor skills in the way true intoxicants do. Chamomile tea is widely consumed as a caffeine-free beverage to promote relaxation and sleep, and chamomile supplements (typically 400-1600mg daily) are used for similar purposes. While some people may experience drowsiness after consuming chamomile, this is a therapeutic effect rather than intoxication. The herb works by binding to certain receptors in the brain that help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, but it does not create euphoria, impaired judgment, or loss of control associated with intoxicating substances. People can safely consume chamomile and engage in normal activities, though individual sensitivity may vary. According to a systematic review by Leach and Page 1, which included 14 trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of herbal medicines (valerian, kava, and chamomile) for treatment of insomnia disorder, there were no between-group differences in critical outcomes with either valerian or chamomile, supporting the notion that chamomile does not have intoxicating effects.

Some key points to consider:

• Chamomile's effects are therapeutic, not intoxicating, as it helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation without impairing cognitive function or motor skills.
• The use of chamomile for insomnia treatment was not supported by evidence, as shown in the systematic review by Leach and Page 1, indicating its effects are not strong enough to be considered a treatment for insomnia, let alone an intoxicant.
• Other herbal supplements like kava have known risks for acute fatal liver toxicity, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between different herbal products and their potential effects on health.
• The lack of evidence supporting the use of chamomile for treating insomnia, as noted in the guidelines 1, further emphasizes that its primary use is for relaxation and sleep promotion rather than as a therapeutic agent for insomnia, and certainly not as an intoxicant.

Given the information and the focus on morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, the recommendation is clear: chamomile should not be considered an intoxicant. Its use is generally safe for promoting relaxation and sleep, although individual sensitivity and potential interactions with other medications should always be considered.

From the Research

Definition of Intoxicant

An intoxicant is a substance that can cause a person to become intoxicated, which means they experience a change in their physical or mental state, often characterized by impaired judgment, coordination, or perception.

Chamomile's Effects

• Chamomile has been studied for its potential sedative and anxiolytic effects, with some studies suggesting it may have a calming effect on the central nervous system (CNS) 2, 3, 4, 5.
• The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin, may modulate the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis by affecting neurotransmitter pathways, which could contribute to its anxiolytic effects 4.
• Chamomile has been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms in clinical trials, with some studies suggesting it may be effective in reducing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) 3, 4, 5.

Intoxicant Classification

• While chamomile can cause drowsiness and relaxation, it is not typically considered an intoxicant in the classical sense, as it does not typically cause impaired judgment, coordination, or perception 2, 3, 6, 4, 5.
• Chamomile's effects are generally considered to be mild and short-term, and it is not known to cause dependence or withdrawal symptoms 3, 4, 5.

Key Findings

• Studies have consistently shown that chamomile can have a positive effect on anxiety symptoms, with some studies suggesting it may be a useful adjunct to conventional treatments for anxiety disorders 3, 4, 5.
• Chamomile's sedative and anxiolytic effects are thought to be due to its active compounds, such as apigenin, which may interact with neurotransmitter pathways in the brain 4.