Understanding Chamomile's Benefits for Cold Symptoms: The Evidence Explored

For centuries, chamomile has been a staple in traditional medicine, lauded for its soothing properties and potential health benefits. Among its many purported uses, chamomile is often recommended as a remedy for the common cold. But what does the science say? This article delves into the evidence surrounding chamomile's effectiveness in preventing and treating colds.

Traditional Use and Perceived Benefits

Chamomile, derived from the flowers of the Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile plant, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine [1][2]. It has been used for a variety of ailments, including the common cold [1]. Traditionally, it is consumed as a tea or inhaled as steam to relieve symptoms such as sore throat, congestion, and general malaise associated with upper respiratory infections [1]. This widespread use is attributed to its perceived anti-inflammatory, mild antimicrobial, and calming properties, which are thought to support the immune system and provide symptomatic relief [1].

Bioactive Compounds and Potential Mechanisms

Chamomile contains several bioactive compounds that may contribute to its therapeutic effects. These include:

• Apigenin: A flavonoid with potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties [3]. In vitro studies suggest that apigenin can inhibit the replication of certain viruses, including influenza A and some common cold viruses [3].
• Bisabolol and Chamazulene: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects [1].

It's theorized that these compounds may work by:

• Reducing inflammation: Chamomile may help alleviate cold symptoms by reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract [4].
• Boosting the immune system: Some believe that chamomile can stimulate the immune system, helping the body fight off infections [5][6]. A study involving volunteers who drank chamomile tea daily for two weeks showed a significant increase in urinary levels of hippurate and glycine, which have been associated with increased antibacterial activity [2][6].
• Providing symptomatic relief: The soothing properties of chamomile may help relieve sore throat, congestion, and general discomfort associated with colds [1].

Scientific Evidence: What Does the Research Show?

While the traditional use of chamomile for colds is well-documented, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited.

• Limited Clinical Trials: Human clinical trials specifically investigating chamomile for cold prevention or treatment are scarce and generally of low methodological quality [1][7].
• Focus on General Effects: The majority of available studies focus on chamomile's general anti-inflammatory or anxiolytic effects rather than direct antiviral actions or immune enhancement relevant to colds [1].
• Steam Inhalation: Some studies suggest that inhaling steam with chamomile extract may help relieve common cold symptoms [2]. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings. A study published in 1990 investigated the dose-dependent symptomatic relief of complaints by chamomile steam inhalation in patients with the common cold [8].
• Antiviral Activity In Vitro: In vitro studies have shown that chamomile essential oil possesses antiviral activity against Herpes simplex virus strains [9]. Furthermore, research suggests that chamomile could potentially have antiviral properties against SARS-CoV-2 [10].

Expert Opinions and Recommendations

• American Chemical Society: Researchers at Imperial College London found new evidence that chamomile tea may actually help relieve a wide range of health ailments, including colds and menstrual cramps [6][11].
• Germany's Commission E: Approved chamomile for the treatment of common cold symptoms [10].

How to Use Chamomile for Cold Relief

If you choose to use chamomile for cold relief, consider the following methods:

• Chamomile Tea: Drink several cups of warm chamomile tea daily [4][5].
• Steam Inhalation: Inhale steam infused with chamomile extract [2].
• Gargle: Use chamomile tea as a gargle for sore throat relief [12].

Precautions and Potential Side Effects

While chamomile is generally considered safe, it's important to be aware of potential side effects and precautions:

• Allergies: Chamomile can cause allergic reactions, especially in individuals allergic to plants in the daisy family, such as ragweed and chrysanthemums [13][14].
• Drug Interactions: Chamomile may interact with certain medications [13]. Consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications.
• Safety in Young Children and Pregnant/Nursing Women: The safety of drinking chamomile tea has not been established in young children, pregnant or nursing women [14].

Chamomile has a long history of traditional use for relieving cold symptoms, and some scientific evidence suggests potential mechanisms for its effectiveness. However, robust clinical trials specifically investigating chamomile for cold prevention or treatment are lacking. While chamomile may provide symptomatic relief and potentially support the immune system, it should not be considered a substitute for conventional medical care. If you are experiencing cold symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Disclaimer: Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any decisions regarding your health or treatment.

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Learn more:

1. Relationship: Colds (prevention) and chamomile - Caring Sunshine
2. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future - PMC - PubMed Central
3. Relationship: Colds (antiviral) and Apigenin - Caring Sunshine
4. 15 Foods That May Help You Recover From a Cold Faster - Verywell Health
5. 8 benefits of chamomile tea - Medical News Today
6. Chamomile Tea: New Evidence Supports Health Benefits | ScienceDaily
7. Relationship: Colds (with fever) and chamomile - Caring Sunshine
8. Dose-dependancy of symptomatic relief of complaints by chamomile steam inhalation in patients with common cold | Semantic Scholar
9. A Comprehensive Study of Therapeutic Applications of Chamomile - PMC - PubMed Central
10. Chamomile in combating SARS-Cov-2 - PMC - NIH
11. Chamomile tea: New evidence supports health benefits - EurekAlert!
12. 5 Medicinal Teas To Help With Cold & Flu Symptoms - Brillia Health
13. Chamomile Tea May Help Beat Colds, Cramps - BioSpace
14. 5 Ways Chamomile Tea Benefits Your Health - Healthline