Chamomile tea is a comforting, caffeine-free herbal drink known for its soothing properties. But is it safe to sip during pregnancy? Here’s what to know before pouring yourself a warm cup of chamomile while expecting.

What is chamomile tea?

Chamomile tea is made from the dried flowers of the chamomile plant—typically Matricaria recutita (German chamomile). It's long been used as a natural remedy to promote sleep, relieve digestive upset, and reduce anxiety.

Chamomile contains antioxidants like apigenin, which is thought to bind to certain brain receptors to help induce sleep. It also has mild anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.

What are chamomile supplements?

There’s also Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile)—this is not the version of chamomile typically used in teas. People sometimes take it in supplement form to alleviate hay fever, stress, anxiety, and insomnia.

Is chamomile tea safe during pregnancy?

There’s not much research on chamomile tea safety during pregnancy. While there are no documented negative effects to drinking chamomile tea Because of this lack of definitive data, health authorities like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) recommend pregnant individuals speak with their healthcare provider.

Are chamomile supplements safe during pregnancy?

Some small studies suggest that high-dose chamomile (this is Roman chamomile in capsule or extract form—not tea) may stimulate uterine contractions. For example, one randomized controlled trial found that overdue women taking chamomile capsules went into labor sooner than those given a placebo. However, that study used a concentrated capsule form, not tea, and more research is needed to determine if similar effects occur with typical tea infusions.

High-dose chamomile supplements have also been flagged as possibly unsafe in pregnancy due to theoretical miscarriage risk. This caution is based on animal studies and limited human data. There is no strong evidence that occasional consumption of chamomile tea increases miscarriage risk.

Potential Risks of Chamomile Tea During Pregnancy

Chamomile tea is not considered harmful in small amounts for most people, but there are a few potential risks to weigh for pregnant folks:

  • Allergies: Chamomile is in the same plant family as ragweed, daisies, and marigolds. People allergic to these may react to chamomile.
  • Medication interactions: Chamomile may interact with blood thinners like warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
  • Lack of regulation: Because herbal products are not regulated in the same way as pharmaceuticals, the strength and purity of chamomile tea can vary from brand to brand.

Because of these concerns—and the lack of definitive safety data—experts recommend using chamomile tea in moderation during pregnancy and checking with your healthcare provider first.

Safe Ways to Enjoy Herbal Tea in Pregnancy

If you enjoy herbal tea and want to keep your cup pregnancy-safe, consider the following:

  • Choose trusted brands that clearly list ingredients.
  • Limit intake to 1 cup per day unless approved by your doctor.
  • Avoid high-dose herbal supplements unless prescribed.
  • Try other gentle teas like ginger or peppermint, which are widely considered safe and may help with morning sickness or bloating.

Bottom Line

Chamomile tea may offer some soothing benefits, but there isn’t enough research to confirm its safety during pregnancy. High-dose chamomile has been linked to uterine effects and possible medication interactions. If you're pregnant and want to enjoy a warm cup of chamomile, talk to your doctor or midwife first—and drink it in moderation.

More Pregnancy Dos and Don'ts:

 

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REFERENCES

  • National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): Chamomile: Usefulness and Safety
  • National Library of Medicine: Roman Chamomile, April 2023
  • Onset of Labor in Post-Term Pregnancy by Chamomile, Iran Red Crescent Medical Journal, May 2016
  • Warfarin Interaction with Matricaria chamomilla (Chamomile), Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ), April 2006

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Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.