What is the best way to drink chamomile tea? A complete guide

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

For over 2,000 years, various cultures have used chamomile as a traditional medicine to calm anxiety and settle stomachs. Given its long history, many people still ask, what is the best way to drink chamomile tea to maximize its benefits? The answer depends on your personal wellness goals and preferences.

Quick Summary

An exploration of chamomile tea's many preparations, from hot infusions for sleep to refreshing iced versions for daytime sipping. The article covers ideal brewing techniques, effective timing for different health benefits, and creative ways to enhance the natural flavor with various ingredients.

Key Points

Brewing Technique: For a classic hot tea, steep dried chamomile flowers in near-boiling water for 5-10 minutes, covering the mug to preserve its volatile oils.
Optimal Timing: Drink chamomile tea 30-45 minutes before bed to promote relaxation and sleep, or after meals to aid digestion.
Flavor Customization: Enhance the delicate floral notes with natural sweeteners like honey, fresh citrus like lemon, or complementary herbs such as mint and lavender.
Hot or Cold: Both hot and iced versions can be enjoyed, but for maximum flavor in iced tea, brew a strong hot concentrate and then chill it.
Safety Considerations: Exercise caution if pregnant, have allergies to related plants, or take certain medications, and always consult a doctor if unsure.
Moderate Consumption: Stick to 1-3 cups per day to reap the benefits while minimizing potential side effects like drowsiness or nausea.

The Art of Brewing the Perfect Cup

Mastering the preparation of chamomile tea ensures you extract the maximum flavor and beneficial compounds. While methods vary, the foundation remains consistent across hot and cold preparations.

Basic Hot Brew (The Classic Method)

For a comforting and classic cup, follow these simple steps:

Bring fresh, filtered water to a boil, then let it cool slightly for a minute or two (around 95-100°C).
Place 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers (or one tea bag) in your mug or teapot. High-quality, whole flowers often yield a more potent flavor.
Pour the hot water over the flowers or tea bag.
Cover the cup and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Covering prevents the aromatic essential oils from escaping with the steam.
Strain the flowers or remove the tea bag and enjoy plain, or with your preferred add-ins.

How to Make a Soothing Chamomile Tea Latte

For a creamier, more decadent experience, a chamomile latte is an excellent option:

Brew a strong chamomile concentrate using a little less water than normal, steeping for 7-10 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat and froth your milk of choice, such as dairy, almond, or coconut milk.
Combine the tea concentrate with the warm, frothed milk.
Sweeten to taste with honey or maple syrup and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.

Creating a Refreshing Iced Chamomile Tea

Iced chamomile tea is a perfect summer refresher. To prevent a watery taste, brew a concentrate first:

Steep a larger amount of chamomile (e.g., 4-6 tablespoons of dried flowers) in 2 cups of boiling water for 8-10 minutes.
Strain the tea and add your sweetener while it's still warm to help it dissolve completely.
Pour the concentrate into a pitcher, add 2 cups of cold water, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Serve over ice with a lemon slice or a sprig of mint.

Finding the Optimal Time for Your Brew

The time of day you enjoy your chamomile tea can impact its effects, depending on your wellness goals.

For Restful Sleep

To harness chamomile's natural sedative properties, drink it about 30 to 45 minutes before bedtime. The flavonoid apigenin binds to receptors in the brain that promote sleepiness. This timing gives your body a chance to absorb the beneficial compounds and signals your mind to wind down as part of a nightly ritual.

For Digestive Comfort

If you want to soothe an upset stomach or aid digestion, drinking a cup of chamomile tea after meals is an effective strategy. Its anti-inflammatory properties can relax digestive muscles and provide relief from issues like indigestion, gas, and bloating. It may even help manage blood sugar levels, especially when consumed after eating.

To Relieve Stress and Anxiety

For general relaxation throughout the day, chamomile tea can be enjoyed whenever you feel stressed or anxious. Since it's naturally caffeine-free, it provides a calming effect without any stimulant side effects. Just be mindful that it can cause mild drowsiness in some individuals, especially at higher doses.

Enhancing Your Chamomile Experience with Flavor Pairings

Chamomile's mild, floral notes can be beautifully complemented by a variety of flavors. Experimenting with different pairings can create a customized and delightful brew.

Chamomile Tea Flavor Pairings: A Comparison Table


Flavor Addition	Taste Profile	Best For	Benefit(s)
Honey	Classic sweetness, mellow	General, bedtime	Soothing, antibacterial
Lemon	Bright, zesty, tangy	Digestive support	Vitamin C, tangy balance
Mint	Refreshing, cool	Iced tea, digestion	Uplifting, aids digestion
Ginger	Warm, spicy kick	Spiced tea, colds	Anti-inflammatory, soothing
Lavender	Floral, intense aroma	Maximum relaxation	Enhanced calming effect

Potential Considerations and Precautions

While chamomile tea is generally safe, it's important to be aware of certain precautions:

Allergies: People allergic to plants in the daisy family, such as ragweed, marigolds, or chrysanthemums, may experience an allergic reaction to chamomile.
Medication Interactions: Chamomile may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, sedatives, and anti-seizure drugs. Always consult your doctor before regular consumption if you are taking any prescription medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It's best for pregnant and nursing women to exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before use, as some evidence suggests it might affect uterine contractions.
Excessive Consumption: High doses can potentially cause drowsiness, nausea, or vomiting. Stick to a moderate intake of 1-3 cups per day for most people.

Conclusion

Ultimately, what is the best way to drink chamomile tea is a personal discovery based on your health goals and taste preferences. Whether you prefer a simple, hot brew for a tranquil evening or a spiced, milky concoction for a daytime treat, the versatility of this ancient herb allows for many delicious and beneficial options. By paying attention to preparation, timing, and potential interactions, you can confidently integrate chamomile tea into your daily wellness routine. For more information on its uses and safety, consider consulting reputable health resources, such as the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is generally safe for most people to drink chamomile tea every day. Most sources recommend 1-2 cups per day, though some suggest up to 3-4 cups is acceptable. However, those with allergies or on certain medications should consult a doctor.

No, adding honey or lemon does not reduce the health benefits and may even provide additional advantages. Honey adds antibacterial properties, while lemon provides a dose of Vitamin C. Adding them is a great way to enhance both flavor and wellness.

Pregnant women should be cautious and consult their healthcare provider before consuming chamomile tea regularly. Some studies suggest it might stimulate uterine contractions, and its effects on pregnancy are not fully understood.

The ideal steeping time is typically 5 to 10 minutes, whether you are using a tea bag or loose flowers. Steeping longer can create a stronger infusion, but oversteeping can sometimes result in a more bitter taste.

While often considered gentle, it is essential to talk to a pediatrician before giving chamomile tea to infants or young children. It has been used for issues like colic, but medical advice is necessary for safety.

Yes, chamomile tea has calming properties that can help reduce symptoms of mild anxiety. The antioxidant apigenin is thought to have an anti-anxiety effect by binding to certain brain receptors that promote relaxation.

If you are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family, which includes ragweed, daisies, and marigolds, you should avoid chamomile tea. It can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.