Can Chamomile Tea Have Caffeine? The Truth About This Herbal Favorite

When people reach for a cup of chamomile tea, they often do it for one reason: relaxation. But if you’re sensitive to caffeine, you might wonder — does chamomile tea contain caffeine?

The short answer is no. Chamomile tea is naturally caffeine-free because it’s made from dried chamomile flowers, not from the Camellia sinensis plant (the tea plant that gives us black, green, and white tea).

Chamomile Tea vs. Other Teas: Caffeine Content

Here’s a quick comparison (per 8 oz serving):

• Chamomile Tea: 0 mg caffeine
• Peppermint Tea: 0 mg
• Green Tea: 25–45 mg
• Black Tea: 40–70 mg
• Coffee: 95–200 mg

👉 This is why chamomile is often recommended as a bedtime tea—it won’t disrupt your sleep like coffee or black tea might.

(Source: USDA FoodData Central & Mayo Clinic)

Why Chamomile Is Naturally Caffeine-Free

Chamomile isn’t a “true tea.” True teas (black, green, oolong, white) all come from the tea plant, which naturally contains caffeine. Chamomile belongs to the daisy family, making it an herbal infusion (also called a tisane). Herbal teas, unless blended with black or green tea, are almost always caffeine-free.

Benefits of Chamomile Tea

Beyond being caffeine-free, chamomile tea is loved for its calming effects:

• 💤 Supports better sleep – A 2016 study found postpartum women who drank chamomile tea for 2 weeks reported better sleep quality and lower depression scores than those who didn’t (Journal of Advanced Nursing).
• 😌 Reduces anxiety – Some research suggests chamomile extract may help ease mild anxiety symptoms.
• 🌿 Aids digestion – Traditionally used to calm upset stomachs and reduce bloating.

When Chamomile Tea Might Contain Caffeine

Normally, chamomile tea is caffeine-free. But there are a couple of exceptions:

1. Blended Teas – Some “chamomile blends” include green or black tea for flavor. These will contain caffeine.
2. Bottled or Instant Drinks – Pre-made chamomile tea drinks sometimes add caffeine for energy appeal—always check the label.

Final Thoughts

So, can chamomile tea have caffeine?
👉 Pure chamomile tea: always caffeine-free.
👉 Chamomile blends: check the label, as some may contain black or green tea.

If you’re looking for a gentle, calming drink before bed, chamomile tea is one of the safest choices. It’s naturally caffeine-free, backed by research for relaxation benefits, and widely enjoyed across cultures as a nighttime ritual.