Effect of Chamomile on sleep quality of hemodialysis patients: A clinical trial

Sleep disorders in hemodialysis patients have been reported over 80%. Due to its sedative effects, Matricaria Chamomile may be effective in promoting sleep quality of these patients. This study was done with the aim of investigating the effect of Chamomile on sleep quality of hemodialysis patients.

This is a randomized clinical trial. 110 hemodialysis patients were selected by convenience sampling and randomly allocated in two groups. Patients in intervention group received 400 mg Chamomile syrup every day up to 4 weeks and patients in control group Saccharin syrup with the same order. Data was gathered with demographic questionnaire and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Data was analyzed by SPSS version 22 using paired and independent t- tests.

Results showed no significant difference between means of sleep quality in control (10.21± 1.85) and intervention group (10.52 ± 2.2) before the intervention (P=0.430). After intervention a significant difference was seen between means of sleep quality in control (10.12± 2.09) and intervention groups (8.07 ± 1.96) (P=0.0001).

Oral taking of Chamomile resulted in promotion of sleep quality in hemodialysis patients. Consumption of Chamomile in similar conditions is recommended.