Is Chamomile compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Chamomile?

Chamomile

March 22, 2018 (Very Low Risk)

It is a widely used plant even in infants. Because of lack of toxicity, a moderate use is considered to be safe.

If topically used, do not apply it on the nipple because risk of contact dermatitis has been reported.

There are two different species with similar properties: 1) Common or Sweet Chamomile (Matricaria recutita or Chamomilla recutita). 2) Roman, English or Bitter Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis o Chamaemelum nobile).

Inflorescence of the herb is used. Contains Essential Oil, Flavonoids, Lactones and Tannins.

Unproven properties are: Anti-spasmodic. Digestive, Anti-inflammatory, Sedative.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Chamomile since it is relatively safe.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Synonyms

  • Camomile
  • English chamomile
  • German Chamomile
  • Hungarian Chamomile
  • Roman Chamomile
  • Scented Mayweed

Writings

  • Anthemis nobilis (Chamaemelum nobile) (Latin, botanical name)
  • Matricaria recutita (Matricaria chamomilla) (Latin, botanical name)
  • Χαμομήλι (Greek)

Drug trade names

References

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  3. The Royal Women’s Hospital Victoria Australia. Herbal and Traditional Medicines in Breasfeeding. Fact Sheet. 2013 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  4. Sim TF, Sherriff J, Hattingh HL, Parsons R, Tee LB. The use of herbal medicines during breastfeeding: a population-based survey in Western Australia. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
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  6. WHO. World Health Organization. WHO monographs on medicinal plants commonly used in the Newly Independent States (NIS). WHO monographs. 2010 Full text (in our servers)
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  11. Crotteau CA, Wright ST, Eglash A. Clinical inquiries. What is the best treatment for infants with colic? J Fam Pract. 2006Abstract
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  13. Savino F, Cresi F, Castagno E, Silvestro L, Oggero R. A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of a standardized extract of Matricariae recutita, Foeniculum vulgare and Melissa officinalis (ColiMil) in the treatment of breastfed colicky infants. Phytother Res. 2005Abstract
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  15. WHO. World Health Organization. Geneva. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants. Volume 2. WHO monographs. 1999 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  16. McGeorge BC, Steele MC. Allergic contact dermatitis of the nipple from Roman chamomile ointment. Contact Dermatitis. 1991Abstract