Chamomile Tea: The Gentle Evening Classic

What is chamomile tea?

Chamomile tea is an infusion made from the small daisy-like flowers of the chamomile plant. It brews to a pale golden colour and has a delicate, gently floral flavour with a subtle sweetness often likened to apple.

Because it is a herbal tea rather than a true tea, chamomile is naturally caffeine-free. This is a big part of why it has become such a fixture of evening routines around the world.

Traditional uses and gentle calm

Chamomile has traditionally been used to encourage relaxation and ease into rest, which is why so many people enjoy a cup as part of their wind-down before bed. Its soft aroma alone can feel soothing at the end of a long day.

It is worth remembering that chamomile is a comforting ritual rather than a medical remedy. If you are pregnant, taking medication or have allergies to related plants such as ragweed, it is sensible to check with a healthcare professional first.

Brewing chamomile for the best flavour

Use freshly boiled water and steep chamomile flowers for around five minutes, keeping the cup covered helps hold in the delicate aromatics. Whole flowers, as found in good loose-leaf blends, give a rounder, fuller flavour than finely ground teabags.

OzTea's caffeine-free chamomile-based blends come as 10g samples and 50g packs in recyclable kraft packaging. A sample is a lovely way to discover how you like it, plain or with a touch of honey.

Frequently asked questions

Is chamomile tea caffeine-free?

Yes. Chamomile is a herbal infusion made from flowers rather than the tea plant, so it is naturally caffeine-free.

Why do people drink chamomile before bed?

Chamomile has traditionally been used to encourage relaxation, and many people find a warm cup a soothing part of their evening wind-down.

What does chamomile tea taste like?

Chamomile has a delicate, gently floral flavour with a subtle apple-like sweetness and a pale golden colour.

Are there any cautions with chamomile tea?

Chamomile is generally gentle, but those who are pregnant, on medication or allergic to plants like ragweed should check with a healthcare professional.