Does Chamomile Tea Have Caffeine? No

By Ricardo R. Matos, Founder of Tea The World
Updated October 2026 · Reviewed against published research

Quick answer: No. Pure chamomile tea has 0 mg of caffeine. It is an herbal infusion made from dried chamomile flowers, not from the Camellia sinensis tea plant. Only blends that add black, green, or white tea contain caffeine, so check the ingredient list.

The Origins and History of Chamomile

Chamomile has been enjoyed for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians associated it with the sun god Ra, and Greek and Roman writers, including Dioscorides, described its traditional uses. Through the Middle Ages, monks and herbalists grew chamomile in their gardens, and today it is one of the most popular herbal teas in the world.

Understanding Caffeine

Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in coffee, tea leaves, cacao, and a few other plants. It blocks adenosine, a brain chemical that promotes sleepiness, which is why it makes you feel alert. Too much can cause jitteriness, anxiety, or trouble sleeping, so many people choose caffeine-free options in the evening.

Why Chamomile Is Caffeine-Free

Chamomile flowers simply don’t contain caffeine. That means you can enjoy chamomile any time of day or night, and it’s a popular choice for people who are sensitive to caffeine or cutting back.

What Research Says About Chamomile

• Relaxation and sleep: Chamomile contains apigenin, a compound researchers study for calming effects. According to the NIH’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, the evidence that chamomile improves sleep is very limited. Enjoy it as part of a calming evening routine, not as a treatment for insomnia; if you have ongoing sleep problems, talk with a healthcare provider.
• Digestion: Chamomile has long traditional use for settling the stomach, but it has not been proven to treat digestive problems.
• Antioxidants: Chamomile contains flavonoids studied in the lab for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Human evidence is limited.

Safety: Chamomile is likely safe in the amounts found in tea. People allergic to ragweed, daisies, or related plants may react to it. Chamomile may interact with blood thinners and some other medications, so check with your provider if you take them.

Chamomile vs. Other Herbal Teas

• Peppermint: Also caffeine-free, with a cool, minty flavor and a popular after-meal choice. Try Morocco Simply Tea Peppermint.
• Rooibos: Caffeine-free, naturally sweet and nutty, and delicious with milk. Try Green Rooibos Bonita.

Chamomile Varieties and Blends

The two main types are German chamomile (Matricaria recutita), the most common, with a sweet, apple-like flavor, and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), which is a bit more bitter. Chamomile blends beautifully with peppermint, lavender, or lemon balm, and a drizzle of honey makes a cozy evening cup.

How to Brew Chamomile Tea

1. Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers per 8 oz cup.
2. Bring fresh, filtered water to a boil and let it rest about 30 seconds (around 200°F).
3. Cover and steep 5–7 minutes, or up to 10 for a stronger cup.
4. Strain and enjoy plain, or add honey, lemon, or mint. It’s lovely iced too.

Conclusion

Pure chamomile tea is caffeine-free, gentle, and comforting, which makes it a perfect evening companion. Brew a cup, slow down, and enjoy.

This article is for general education and is not medical advice. If you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medication, talk with your doctor before using herbal teas for health reasons.

Sources

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Chamomile: Usefulness and Safety.
• Srivastava JK, Shankar E, Gupta S. Chamomile: a herbal medicine of the past with a bright future. Molecular Medicine Reports, 2010;3(6):895–901. Article.