German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) flowers contain the flavonoid apigenin and volatile bisabolol. Apigenin binds to benzodiazepine GABA-A receptors in the brain to produce a gentle sedative and anxiolytic effect, while bisabolol relaxes gastrointestinal smooth muscle.
Educational information only — never stop or change a prescribed medication without talking to your prescriber first.
Cross-reactivity may occur in individuals severely allergic to Asteraceae/daisy family plants (ragweed, marigolds). May potentiate sedative medications and alcohol.
Evidence level: Strong
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