Therapeutic Potential of Chamomile in Women’s Health and Wellbeing: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background: Chamomile, derived from both Matricaria chamomilla and Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All, has long been used as a holistic treatment and has demonstrated the ability to address health issues associated with women's health, including menstrual cramps, anxiety, stress, and sleep problems. Chamomile has three major active compounds – apigenin, alpha bisabolol and chamazulene – which provide anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic and mild sedative properties. Chamomile has an apple-like fragrance, which promotes relaxation through aromatherapy. Objectives: The purpose is to review the effectiveness of chamomile in relieving the symptoms of dysmenorrhea, anxiety, and sleep disturbances in women (e.g., premenstrual syndrome, menopause, postpartum) relative to peppermint and lavender. Methods: The review is based on a review of a comparative analysis of the above-mentioned herbs. This narrative review explains and critically evaluates reported experimental and clinical studies on the role of chamomile in women’s health. Results: Reported studies support the effectiveness of chamomile in reducing menstrual pain, promoting calming through aroma, and reducing anxiety while improving the quality of life associated with multiple women's health conditions. In addition, it has unique categories of benefits. Conclusion: Despite the challenges of small sample sizes, varied dosages and inconsistent preparation techniques, chamomile demonstrates strong potential as a gentle, sensory alternative therapy. Future studies should emphasize the need for standardized studies with larger samples, longer follow-up and optimized aromatherapy techniques to assess the long-term safety of chamomile