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Chamomile vs Valerian: Difference, Benefits & Which Is Better? | HerbAlly

Chamomile vs Valerian

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Chamomile

Matricaria chamomilla

Nervine

Valerian

Valeriana officinalis

Nervine

⚠️ Pregnancy & Nursing Warnings

Chamomile

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Valerian

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Chamomile is one of the most widely consumed herbal teas in the world, known for its gentle calming and digestive properties. It has been used medicinally for thousands of years across Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations. Its mild flavor and safety profile make it suitable for all ages.

Valerian is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe and Asia, long valued for its sedative and anxiolytic properties. It has been used since ancient Greek and Roman times for insomnia and nervousness. The root is the primary medicinal part, known for its distinctive strong odor.

Active Compounds

Apigenin, Bisabolol, Chamazulene, Matricin, Luteolin

Valerenic acid, Isovaleric acid, Valepotriates, GABA, Hesperidin

Traditional Uses

Sleep aid, Digestive soother, Anxiety relief, Wound healing, Eye inflammation treatment

Insomnia remedy, Anxiety relief, Nervous tension, Digestive spasm relief, Headache treatment

Modern Uses

Insomnia, Irritable bowel syndrome, Anxiety and stress, Skin inflammation, Oral mucositis

Insomnia and sleep disorders, Anxiety, Restlessness, Menstrual cramps, Muscle tension

Adult Dosage

1-4 cups tea daily, or 220-1100mg capsule daily

300-600mg root extract 30-60 minutes before bedtime

Contraindications

Allergy to daisy family (Asteraceae), Concurrent use with blood thinners

Liver disease, Concurrent sedative medications, Before driving or operating machinery

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E

View Chamomile Details View Valerian Details Calculate Chamomile Dose

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Chamomile and Valerian?

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is traditionally used for Sleep aid, Digestive soother, Anxiety relief, while Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is used for Insomnia remedy, Anxiety relief, Nervous tension. See the comparison table for dosage, safety and interactions.

Which is better, Chamomile or Valerian?

It depends on your goal. Compare evidence levels, pregnancy safety and drug interactions in the table above, then use our free dose calculator. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Can I take Chamomile and Valerian together?

Combining herbs can change safety and interactions. Check each herb's interaction profile above and consult your healthcare provider before combining Chamomile with Valerian.