In fact, chamomile is commonly regarded as a mild tranquilizer or sleep inducer. Its calming effects may be attributed to an antioxidant called apigenin, which is found in abundance in chamomile tea. Apigenin binds to specific receptors in your brain that may decrease anxiety and initiate sleep ( 3 ).

Does chamomile tea really make you sleepy?

Chamomile is particularly effective at making you feel sleepy because of its chemical structure. ... Similarly, when the apigenin in chamomile binds to GABA receptors, it has a sedative and relaxing effect — that's why chamomile tea can make you feel sleepy.

Why does chamomile tea make you drowsy?

Chamomile tea

People drink chamomile tea to treat insomnia because of its calming effects. Researchers believe that its effect on sleep comes from its flavonoid content . Apigenin is a flavonoid that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, which has a sedative effect.