Who should avoid chamomile tea?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.While chamomile tea is beneficial for some, some patients need to avoid it altogether due to specific health risks. Pregnant women, who risk potential uterine stimulation from apigenin compounds, should take care. Ragweed allergy patients are at risk of potentially serious reactions from cross-reactivity with chamomile. Patients should always consult their healthcare provider before starting any herbal preparations.
Pregnancy Concerns
- Avoid all chamomile products during first trimester
- Limited use later only under obstetric supervision
- Potential coumarin content affects blood coagulation
Allergy Management
- Perform skin patch test before internal use
- Have epinephrine available if Asteraceae family allergic
- Watch for oral allergy syndrome symptoms
Medication Interactions
- Avoid with warfarin, heparin, or aspirin regimens
- Monitor liver enzymes with sedative medications
- Check chemotherapy drug compatibility carefully
Pediatric Safety
- Never give to infants under 6 months old
- Use extra-dilute brews for older children
- Consult pediatrician before introducing herbal teas
Chamomile contains coumarin compounds, which inhibit vitamin K recycling and may enhance the effects of a blood thinner. I have seen cases of patients experiencing increased bruising when using chamomile in combination with anticoagulants. Always keep your prescribing physician informed about your use of herbal supplements to adjust your medication as necessary.
Chamomile is especially risky for those with ragweed allergies because it shares protein with ragweed pollen. Symptoms may include swelling of the throat, hives, or an asthma attack. Cross-reactivity also occurs with chrysanthemum and marigold. Be sure to have your emergency medication available if you have allergies to the Asteraceae family.
Chamomile should not be given to infants under six months of age due to the risk of botulism resulting from spores of bacteria found in soil, as their digestive systems are not yet mature enough to eliminate these spores from food. For other ages, it is okay to use highly diluted tea with pediatric approval. I suggest an X-ray for toddlers on herbal teas.
Consider safe substitutes, such as lemon balm for relaxation or ginger for digestion, if chamomile is contraindicated. Teas and supplements can often contain mixed ingredients, as products can be adulterated with other, like-appearing, toxic plant parts. Therefore, always check the purity of supplements. When in doubt, use commercially prepared teas with verified ingredients.
Read the full article: How to Grow Chamomile: A Complete Guide
