Is chamomile tea better than melatonin?

Neither is clearly better, because they do different things and have different evidence. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says melatonin may improve how quickly people fall asleep, but two clinical guidelines recommend against it for chronic insomnia, while chamomile is traditionally used for sleep with no conclusive clinical evidence. Chamomile tea is a non-hormonal habit, and its sleep benefit is unproven.

Melatonin has more research for certain problems, such as jet lag and shift work. For chamomile, NCCIH's chamomile page says a 2019 review found one study on insomnia, and it showed no benefit. Part of the tea's appeal may be the calm ritual of a warm cup before bed.

Both have cautions. Chamomile can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to ragweed and may interact with warfarin. Melatonin needs medical supervision for people on blood thinners or with epilepsy, and its long-term safety is unknown.

Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition.

Source: NCCIH - Sleep Disorders and Complementary Health Approaches

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Noddie Night is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This page is general information, not medical advice.