Does chamomile help baby sleep?

The Soothing Power of Chamomile for Baby Sleep
As parents navigate the often tumultuous waters of infant care, the quest for effective sleep aids can lead them to natural remedies like chamomile. This gentle herb, known for its calming properties, has been a staple in herbal medicine for centuries. But does chamomile truly help babies sleep better?
Chamomile’s Calming Effects
Chamomile is widely recognized for its mild sedative effects, which can help relax the nervous system. This quality makes it a popular choice for those seeking relief from anxiety and sleep disturbances. In adults, studies have shown that chamomile can improve sleep quality and reduce the frequency of awakenings during the night. For infants, the potential benefits are similarly promising, particularly in soothing conditions like colic, which can disrupt sleep.
Research and Anecdotal Evidence
While clinical trials specifically targeting chamomile’s effects on infant sleep are limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that it may be beneficial. Many parents report that chamomile tea has helped calm their babies, leading to more restful sleep. For instance, one mother shared her experience of using chamomile to alleviate her daughter’s evening crying, which was characteristic of gas and colic. This aligns with findings that chamomile may help soothe colic symptoms, thereby promoting better sleep.
Safety Considerations
Despite its potential benefits, safety is a paramount concern when considering chamomile for babies. Experts advise caution, emphasizing the importance of consulting with a pediatrician before introducing any herbal remedies to an infant’s diet. While chamomile is generally considered safe for older children and adults, its effects on very young infants are less well-studied.
Conclusion: A Gentle Option with Caution
In summary, chamomile may offer a gentle solution for parents looking to help their babies sleep better, particularly in cases of colic or general fussiness. However, due to the limited research on its long-term safety and effectiveness for infants, it is crucial for parents to approach this remedy with care and professional guidance. As with any health-related decision for your child, informed choices are the best path forward.

Can I use chamomile tea instead of gripe water?

This study shows the use of chamomile mixed with other herbs (combination of which is similar to gripe water) shows that it calms 57% of infants 2-8 weeks old from gastric distress and colic.

Does chamomile tea affect the baby?

There is some evidence that chamomile tea can lead to early labor and preterm birth. Other studies suggest it may help start labor in those past their due date.

Does chamomile tea increase breast milk?

The phytoestrogenic compounds of chamomile cause galactogogue effects by acting on dopamine receptors, and in human studies, the extract of this plant has been shown to increase lactogenesis in lactating woman (Silva et al., 2018) .

Is chamomile tea good for gassy babies?

Chamomile: Chamomile is a calming herb that can help to soothe your baby and relieve gas pain. You can give your baby chamomile tea, or you can apply chamomile lotion to your baby’s tummy.

What herbal medicine helps baby sleep?

Chamomile tea & other sleeping foods
It can also be a safe, mild sedative for your kids to help them fall asleep more easily. Though you don’t want to give cherry juice to infants, you can give kids cherry juice which has natural traces of melatonin.

Is chamomile safe for babies teething?

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties & soothing benefits that are great for teething littles, and it’s super easy to just keep some tea bags or dried chamomile on hand to have when they are teething. Especially before bed to help them get a better sleep! 🫶

Can chamomile help babies sleep?

Chamomile is also known for its soothing and relaxing properties. It is used as a natural sleep aid. So not only will it soothe a gassy baby but help your baby relax. Babies need their sleep just as much as we do. This herb can help relax an inconsolable baby so both of you can be happy.

How long does it take for chamomile to kick in?

UpToDate delivers evidence-based clinical decision support that is clear, actionable, and rich with real-world insights. View Source and instead drink your chamomile tea a little earlier. “Usually the optimal time to drink some chamomile tea is 45-60 minutes before bedtime or during wind down time to help with sleep.”

Does chamomile actually improve sleep?

Yes, Chamomile tea is very effective due to its caffeine-free nature and ability to induce sleep. It contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in your brain that may promote sleepiness and reduce insomnia, or the chronic inability to sleep.

What are the side effects of chamomile tea?

Side effects are uncommon and may include nausea, dizziness, and allergic reactions, including severe hypersensitivity reactions and anaphylaxis, in some people. If used near the eyes, chamomile might cause eye irritation.