Insomnia: Chamomile, Passionflower & Why the Evidence Is Limited

A tea can feel calming without being proven to treat chronic insomnia. That distinction matters because insomnia is a medical sleep disorder, not simply one rough night.

Quick answer

NCCIH says there is no conclusive clinical evidence that chamomile is helpful for insomnia. Passionflower has a small amount of research suggesting it may improve total sleep time in adults with insomnia, while effects on falling asleep and staying asleep are mixed.

What has the strongest support

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, or CBT-I, remains the most strongly recommended treatment for chronic insomnia. Herbal products should not be presented as if they have equivalent evidence.

Safety

Chamomile can cause allergic reactions and may interact with some medicines. Passionflower may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion and should be used cautiously around sedating medicines and anesthesia.

Evidence strength

Norene’s Farmacy rating: INSUFFICIENT / INCONCLUSIVE HUMAN EVIDENCE for chamomile in insomnia; LIMITED HUMAN EVIDENCE for passionflower.

Source

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Sleep Disorders and Complementary Health Approaches; Chamomile; Passionflower.

Dr. Village Reports is educational information and product guidance, not medical advice.