Effect of Matricaria chamomilla on the Quality of Life Among Women with Menopausal Symptoms: A Triple-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Purpose:

To evaluate whether Matricaria chamomilla (Chamomile) supplementation enhances quality of life (QOL) specifically in vasomotor, psychological, physical, and sexual domains among postmenopausal women in Iran, where research on natural remedies for menopause management is limited.

Methods:

In this triple-blind randomized controlled trial, 80 postmenopausal women aged 47–62 years were randomly assigned to receive either 400 mg Chamomile capsules daily (standardized to 1.2% apigenin) or placebo for 12 weeks. Randomization was performed using permuted blocks, and the study was triple-blinded (participants, researchers, and data analysts). QOL was assessed using the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire at baseline and 12 weeks. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance with baseline score adjustments and an intention-to-treat approach for missing data.

Results:

Chamomile significantly reduced vasomotor symptoms compared to placebo (mean difference = −0.82, 95% confidence interval: −1.25 to −0.39, p ≤ 0.001). No significant improvements were observed in psychological, physical, sexual, or overall QOL scores. Mild side effects (mouth sores, skin spots) caused the withdrawal of two participants from the Chamomile group.

Conclusions:

Chamomile supplementation demonstrates efficacy in alleviating vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women, likely due to its phytoestrogenic properties, but has a limited impact on other QOL domains.