Which chamomile for herbal tea: Roman or German chamomile?

Which chamomile for herbal tea : Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is the best choice for herbal tea, thanks to its more aromatic flowers and higher concentration of calming active ingredients.

According to an analysis published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2021) [1], Roman chamomile extracts contain up to 35% angelate esters, compounds absent or very rare in German chamomile. This unique chemical profile explains its superior aroma and therapeutic properties when used as an infusion.

• Sweeter and fruitier aroma : Roman chamomile is less bitter than German chamomile.
• Rich in active ingredients : angelate esters, flavonoids, apigenin.
• Recognized calming effects : sleep support and stress reduction.
• Ease of use : dried flowers available in herbalist shops or in sachets.
• Digestive tolerance : recognized byEFSA for its soothing action on the stomach.

Roman chamomile vs. German chamomile: what's the difference for your herbal tea?

The question of which chamomile to use for herbal tea often comes down to a choice between two main species. Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) and German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, also known as matricaria chamomilla) are both used in herbal medicine, but they do not share the same profile.

Roman chamomile has larger flowers, a fruity fragrance, and moderate bitterness. German chamomile, recognizable by its yellow flower heads surrounded by drooping white petals, gives off a more herbaceous and slightly more pronounced aroma.

For daily infusions, romaine lettuce is preferred for its more pleasant taste and mildness. German chamomile remains valuable for its specific anti-inflammatory properties.

3 types of chamomile to know before choosing

Understanding which chamomile for herbal tea is best requires identifying the three most common species on the French market.

• Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): the most recommended for herbal teas. Sweet aroma, pom-pom-like white flowers, slightly fruity and bitter taste.
• German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): also called feverfew or wild chamomile. Richer in azulene, it is more commonly used as an essential oil and for external application.
• Stinking chamomile (Anthemis cotula): absolutely avoid it. It can cause skin irritation and is not suitable for consumption.

Many readers have told us that confusion between these species has already caused them problems when buying in bulk. Always check the Latin name on the packaging.

Why Roman chamomile is the best for infusion

Choosing which chamomile to use for herbal tea is primarily about choosing Roman chamomile if you're looking for a pleasant daily experience. Its flowers contain a high concentration of apigenin, a flavonoid that binds to GABA receptors in the brain.

A study published in the Phytomedicine Journal (2017) [2] showed that apigenin extracted from Chamaemelum nobile significantly reduced anxiety scores in participants with generalized anxiety disorder. The effective dose was equivalent to 2 to 3 cups of herbal tea per day.

Its angelate ester profile also gives it an antispasmodic effect recognized by the Commission E for mild gastrointestinal spasms.

When is it best to use German chamomile for your infusion?

The answer to which chamomile for herbal tea is not always Roman chamomile. German chamomile offers specific benefits in certain situations.

• Inflammatory digestive disorders : chamomile contains more chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol, two powerful anti-inflammatory molecules.
• Painful periods : recognized by theWHO for its traditional use in mild dysmenorrhea [3].
• Mild gastric ulcers : its soothing action on the gastric mucosa is documented in several clinical trials.
• More affordable cost : often cheaper in bulk than Roman chamomile.

If your goal is primarily digestive or anti-inflammatory, chamomile may be a wise choice, even if its taste is slightly less pleasant.

Comparative table: romaine vs. chamomile for herbal tea

How to prepare an effective chamomile tea?

Knowing which chamomile to choose for herbal tea isn't enough: the preparation also determines the effectiveness of your infusion. Water that is too hot destroys some of the heat-sensitive active ingredients.

1. Ideal temperature : 90-95 °C, never to a complete boil.
2. Quantity : 1 to 2 tablespoons of dried flowers per cup (approximately 1.5 to 2 g).
3. Infusion time : 5 to 10 minutes, covered to prevent evaporation of volatile essential oils.
4. Filtration : use a fine sieve or a tea ball to collect all the flowers.
5. Recommended frequency : 2 to 3 cups per day, preferably after meals or before bedtime.

Covering your cup while brewing is essential. The volatile essential oils of chamomile evaporate quickly when heated and account for a significant portion of its therapeutic effects.

Fresh or dried flowers: what form for your herbal tea?

The question of which chamomile to use for herbal tea also includes the choice of form. Fresh flowers are more aromatic but less concentrated in active ingredients. Dried flowers offer optimal concentration and a longer shelf life.

• Loose dried flowers : better concentration, shelf life 12-18 months in an airtight jar away from light.
• Tea bags : convenient, but often made up of less aromatic flower fragments.
• Fresh flowers : ideal if you grow your own chamomile, to be used immediately or dried.
• Mother tincture : concentrated form for a specific therapeutic use, not suitable for daily herbal tea.

If you wish to grow your own chamomile to prepare your herbal teas, discover our complete guide on when to plant chamomile to start at the right time.

Recognizing true Roman chamomile in herbalism

To choose the right chamomile for herbal tea, you need to know how to identify genuine Roman chamomile. Common varieties are often confused with common daisies.

• Double or single flowers : Roman chamomile (pompon) is the most cultivated and sold. Its white petals surround a domed yellow center.
• Characteristic scent : crush a few flowers between your fingers. The fruity and slightly bitter aroma is immediately recognizable.
• Latin name on the packaging : insist on Chamaemelum nobile or Anthemis nobilis (old name).
• Organic certification : choose flowers from organic farming to avoid pesticide residues.

To avoid confusing chamomile and daisies when buying or picking them, consult our article on chamomile or daisy: how to distinguish them.

Which chamomile tea is best for your health goals?

The answer to which chamomile tea to choose also depends on what you're trying to achieve. Here's a quick guide based on your needs.

• Sleep and relaxation : Roman chamomile, rich in apigenin. 1 cup 30 minutes before bedtime. To learn more about this topic, read our article on whether chamomile helps with sleep.
• Digestion and bloating : German chamomile or Roman chamomile, after meals.
• Stress and mild anxiety : Roman chamomile, 2 to 3 cups per day.
• Painful periods : chamomile matricaria, recognized by the WHO for this use.
• Soothing irritated eyes : Roman chamomile compress. Discover how to use chamomile for your eyes in our dedicated guide.
• Weight loss : Chamomile can support your metabolism. Read our article on whether chamomile helps with weight loss to learn more.

Which chamomile is best for herbal tea: scientifically documented benefits

Choosing which chamomile for herbal tea also means relying on solid data. Research on chamomile has developed considerably over the last twenty years.

The NCCIH recognizes chamomile as one of the most studied medicinal plants in the world [4]. Among its best-documented effects are:

• Anxiolytic effect : 50% reduction in generalized anxiety symptoms in a 2016.
• Sleep improvement : reduced time to fall asleep and improved sleep quality in older adults.
• Anti-inflammatory action : inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-alpha) in vitro.
• Digestive support : reduction of intestinal spasms and mild nausea.
• Antioxidant properties : neutralization of free radicals thanks to flavonoids.

A meta-analysis published in Molecular Medicine Reports (2019) [5] compiled data from 28 clinical studies and confirmed the effectiveness of chamomile on sleep disorders and mild to moderate anxiety.

Precautions and contraindications to be aware of

Even knowing which chamomile to choose for herbal tea, certain precautions are necessary. Chamomile is generally well tolerated, but interactions do exist.

• Asteraceae allergy : If you are allergic to chrysanthemums, mugwort or ragweed, consult a doctor before consuming chamomile.
• Anticoagulants : Chamomile may potentiate the effect of warfarin. Inform your doctor if you are taking them.
• Pregnancy : German chamomile is not recommended during pregnancy due to its potential effect on the uterus. Roman chamomile is preferable, and should be used in moderation after consulting a doctor.
• Infants : avoid chamomile teas before 12 months without pediatric advice.
• Sedatives and anxiolytics : a possible synergy with sedative medications requires medical supervision.

ANSESreminds us that medicinal plants, even natural ones, can present risks in case of excessive consumption or drug interactions.

Where can I buy the best chamomile for herbal tea?

Once you know which chamomile tea is right for you, you still need to find a quality product. Here are the essential criteria for making a good purchase.

1. Specialized herbalist : the best choice for quality and personalized advice. Ask for Roman chamomile in bulk.
2. Certified organic shops : favour the AB (Agriculture Biologique) or Ecocert labels.
3. For a reputable online purchase : check for the presence of the Latin name, harvest date, and geographical origin.
4. Avoid supermarkets : industrial bags often contain mixtures of varieties and lower quality fragments.

If you prefer to pick your own chamomile, our guide on when to pick chamomile tells you the optimal time for a harvest of maximum quality.

Chamomile for herbal tea: blend ideas and recipes

Knowing which chamomile to choose for herbal tea also opens the door to synergistic plant combinations. Chamomile blends very well with other herbs.

• Chamomile and verbena : a classic combination for sleep and relaxation. Compare verbena and chamomile for sleep in our dedicated article.
• Chamomile + lemon balm : a soothing synergy for stress and nervous digestive disorders.
• Chamomile + ginger : an anti-nausea and digestive combination, ideal after a heavy meal.
• Chamomile + lavender : a relaxing blend for a very effective evening herbal tea.
• Chamomile + fennel : traditional combination for bloating and colic.

For creative ideas on using the lesser-known parts of the plant, discover what to do with chamomile leaves in our healthy recipes.

Which chamomile is best for herbal tea: are the leaves usable?

The question of which chamomile to use for herbal tea usually refers to the flowers, but chamomile leaves can also be used to make an infusion. They contain similar active ingredients, but in lower concentrations.

Roman chamomile leaves have a slightly more herbaceous and less floral aroma than the flowers. They can be used alone or mixed with the flowers to enrich your herbal tea.

In practice, most herbalists recommend using only the flowers for optimal herbal tea, as the leaves are more suited to culinary uses.

Frequently asked questions about which chamomile to use for herbal tea

Which chamomile tea is the most effective for sleep?

Roman chamomile is the best choice for sleep-related teas. Its high apigenin content, a flavonoid that binds to GABA receptors, promotes relaxation and sleep. Drink a cup 30 minutes before bedtime.

Can German chamomile be used to make herbal tea?

Yes, German chamomile is perfectly suitable for herbal tea. Its flavor is slightly stronger and more herbaceous than Roman chamomile, but it's still pleasant. It's particularly well-suited to digestive and anti-inflammatory teas.

Which type of chamomile should I buy for herbal tea at a herbalist shop?

Specifically ask for loose-leaf Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) for a quality daily herbal tea. Check for the Latin name on the label and choose whole dried flowers over fragments.

How many chamomile flowers are needed for an herbal tea?

Use 1 to 2 tablespoons of dried flowers (approximately 1.5 to 2 g) per 250 ml cup. For fresh flowers, double the quantity as they are less concentrated in active ingredients.

Is bagged chamomile as effective as loose chamomile?

Tea bags are convenient but generally less effective than loose flowers. They often contain lower-quality flower fragments. For maximum effectiveness, choose whole, dried, loose flowers.

Which chamomile tea is suitable for children?

Diluted Roman chamomile (half the dose) can be used for children over 3 years old for mild digestive upsets. Avoid giving any chamomile tea to children under 12 months and consult a pediatrician before regular use in young children.

Is it safe to drink chamomile tea every day?

Yes, 2 to 3 cups of chamomile tea per day are generally well tolerated by healthy adults. Excessive consumption (more than 5 cups per day) may cause nausea or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Which chamomile tea is best during pregnancy?

German chamomile is not recommended during pregnancy due to its potential effect on uterine contractions. Roman chamomile in moderate amounts (1 cup per day) is generally considered safer, but always consult your doctor or midwife before consuming it.

How to preserve chamomile flowers for herbal tea?

Store your dried chamomile flowers in an airtight glass jar, away from light, moisture, and heat. Under these conditions, they will retain their properties for 12 to 18 months. Avoid plastic containers, which can alter the aroma.

Can chamomile tea interact with medications?

Yes. Chamomile can potentiate the effects of anticoagulants (warfarin), sedatives, and anxiolytics. Always inform your doctor if you are drinking chamomile tea and are taking regular medication.

What is the difference between chamomile infusion and chamomile decoction?

Infusion (hot water poured over the flowers) is the standard and recommended method for preparing chamomile. Decoction (boiling the flowers) destroys some of the volatile essential oils and heat-sensitive flavonoids. Always choose infusion at 90-95°C.

Which chamomile should I choose for herbal tea: organic or conventional?

Always choose certified organic chamomile. Chamomile flowers, due to their porous structure, easily absorb pesticides and herbicides. Organic chamomile guarantees the absence of chemical residues in your daily tea.

Key takeaways

The answer to which chamomile for herbal tea is clear: Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is the number one choice for a pleasant, effective, and well-tolerated daily infusion. Its richness in apigenin and angelate esters makes it the go-to herb for sleep, stress, and digestive comfort. German chamomile remains an excellent choice for specific anti-inflammatory uses.

To begin, buy 50g of dried Roman chamomile flowers from an organic herbalist, prepare your first infusion tonight at 90°C for 8 minutes, covered, and observe the effects on your sleep quality from the first week.

Sources and studies

1. Chemical composition and biological activity of Chamaemelum nobile essential oil — Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2021
2. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future — Molecular Medicine Reports, 2017
3. WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants — Flos Chamomillae — World Health Organization, 2002
4. Chamomile — Health Information — National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), 2023
5. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.): An overview — Molecular Medicine Reports, 2019