Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chamomile has a long history of traditional use for digestive complaints, including indigestion, in numerous cultures. Both German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) have been consumed as herbal teas and remedies for calming the stomach, relieving bloating, and promoting gastrointestinal comfort. Historical texts and folk medicine practices often mention chamomile as a carminative (reducing gas) and a mild relaxant for the digestive tract. The presumed mechanisms include relaxation of smooth muscle, anti-inflammatory effects, and mild anti-spasmodic properties.

Modern scientific validation for chamomile’s efficacy in treating indigestion is limited. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that chamomile extracts may relax gastrointestinal smooth muscle and reduce inflammation. A few small clinical studies and reviews have looked at multi-herb preparations containing chamomile (such as Iberogast), which show some benefit for functional dyspepsia and indigestion symptoms. However, these studies do not isolate chamomile as the sole active ingredient. Very few clinical trials have examined chamomile alone for indigestion, so robust scientific evidence is lacking.

In summary, chamomile’s use for indigestion is primarily supported by traditional practice with modest supportive evidence from preclinical studies. High-quality human studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness specifically for indigestion.

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