Chamomile Tea: Recipe, Benefits and Side Effects

Chamomile tea is an herbal infusion of chamomile flowers and water; this chilled recipe takes about 2 hours 5 minutes and makes about 1 cup (240 mL).

For another combination, use the ai detox recipe generator. Chamomile tea is one simple option in the broader category of herbal detox tea.

What is chamomile tea?

Chamomile tea is made by steeping dried chamomile flowers in water and removing the flowers before drinking. Its mild, floral flavor can make plain water more appealing without requiring sugar or other ingredients.

The recipe below starts with boiling water, then steeps in the refrigerator and is served chilled. Use chamomile sold for making tea rather than ornamental or unidentified flowers, which may not be suitable for consumption.

How do you make chamomile tea?

Ingredients

• 1 g dried chamomile flowers (about 1 teaspoon, or 1/48 cup)
• 240 mL water (1 cup)

Method

1. Heat the water to a boil and pour it over the chamomile in a heat-safe container.
2. Cover and refrigerate promptly, placing the container on a heat-safe surface away from other foods. Steep for 2 to 4 hours.
3. Strain out the flowers and serve the chamomile tea chilled, or gently reheat it until steaming for a warm drink.

The amount of dried flowers that fits in a teaspoon varies with their cut, so the weight is approximate. If the tea package gives different preparation instructions, follow those instructions.

Keep the prepared chamomile tea refrigerated and drink it within 24 hours for best flavor. Discard it sooner if it becomes cloudy, slimy or sour-smelling.

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What does chamomile tea do for detox?

Chamomile tea provides water, which helps you stay hydrated. Hydration supports normal body functions, including the work your kidneys do to remove waste through urine.

Your liver and kidneys do most of your body's detoxification; your lungs and gut also help eliminate waste. Chamomile tea has not been shown to speed up this process or remove toxins, and it is not a replacement for medical care.

Unsweetened brewed chamomile tea has about 1 kcal per 100 g according to USDA data, although the amount in a particular preparation can vary. Sugar, honey or milk will add calories. Read more about chamomile tea benefits, including the limits of the evidence.

How much chamomile tea should you drink, and when?

There is no established detox dose or universally recommended daily amount of chamomile tea. Start with a cup if you enjoy it, and consider how it fits into your overall fluid intake and any advice from your healthcare professional.

Some people enjoy chamomile tea as part of an evening routine, but this recipe has not been proven to improve sleep. The best time to drink chamomile tea is largely a matter of preference and how it affects you.

For more on routine use, see can you drink chamomile tea every day and how much chamomile tea per day. Drinking more is not necessary for detoxification.

What are the side effects of chamomile tea?

Chamomile can cause an allergic reaction, especially in people who are allergic to plants in the daisy family, such as ragweed. Stop using it and seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, wheezing or swelling of the face or throat.

Ask a healthcare professional before using chamomile if you take warfarin or other blood-thinning medication, or medicines that make you sleepy. Do not change or stop prescribed medication because of chamomile tea.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are considering chamomile tea for a child, ask a healthcare professional about suitability; safety information for these groups is limited. See a clinician if you develop a rash, nausea or another concerning symptom after drinking it. The guide to chamomile tea side effects has more detail.

Chamomile tea FAQs

Chamomile tea and concentrated chamomile extracts are not interchangeable. Findings about supplements or extracts cannot automatically be applied to a cup of brewed tea.