Knowing what you can or can't drink or eat during pregnancy can be confusing and if you typically love to curl up with a cup of herbal tea, you might be wondering if you can continue to enjoy it while you're expecting.
Can you drink herbal tea while pregnant?
In short, yes but not all herbal tea. We know it's difficult limiting your caffeine fix when pregnant, no more large cups of coffee, or endless cups of builder's tea. So you're on the right track by replacing caffeine with herbal tea, but just be cautious when doing so. When it comes to herbal tea during pregnancy, natural doesn't always mean safe.
Most herbal and fruit teas are safe to drink in pregnancy, as long as you don't drink them in copious amounts, especially in your first trimester. One or two cups a day should be fine, just don’t drink them continually. This is because herbal teas contain smaller amounts of the same plant chemicals as herbal medicines and can therefore have an effect on your bodily state if taken in larger amounts when you are pregnant.
And according to the NHS: "The caffeine content can vary quite widely between different brands of herbal tea. Some contain no caffeine, while others may have quite high levels. Check the ingredients label on the packet to see how much caffeine is in a brand. Some of the herbs used in herbal tea can also be potentially dangerous if you have a lot of them during pregnancy; especially during weeks 1 to 12 (first trimester). As a general rule, if you drink no more than 1 to 2 cups of herbal tea a day during your pregnancy, you should be fine."
What you can do is mix it up and not drink the same herbal tea every day, try different flavours instead.
Which teas should you specifically avoid and why?
Sage tea
Sage tea is generally advised against during pregnancy due to the presence of a compound called thujone. Thujone is a natural substance found in several plants, including sage, and it can be harmful in large quantities. Here's why sage tea might be problematic during pregnancy:
• Risk of Miscarriage: Thujone can stimulate uterine contractions, which might increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor, especially if consumed in large amounts.
• Toxicity Concerns: In high doses, thujone can be toxic. Although the amount of thujone in a cup of sage tea is typically low, there's a concern that repeated consumption could accumulate and reach levels that might be harmful to both the mother and the developing fetus.
• Hormonal Effects: Some studies suggest that sage can have estrogen-like effects, which could potentially interfere with the hormonal balance necessary to sustain a healthy pregnancy.
Due to these potential risks, it’s recommended that pregnant women avoid drinking sage tea, especially in large quantities, to ensure the safety of their pregnancy. If you're pregnant and considering herbal teas, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider.
Parsley tea
Parsley tea is generally advised against during pregnancy due to the presence of compounds that can potentially cause complications. Here are the main reasons why parsley tea might be problematic during pregnancy:
• Risk of Uterine Contractions: Parsley contains a compound called apiol, which has been traditionally used to stimulate menstruation. Apiol can also stimulate uterine contractions, which might increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor, especially when consumed in large amounts.
• Hormonal Effects: Like sage, parsley has estrogen-like effects, which could potentially disrupt the hormonal balance that is crucial for maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
• Toxicity in High Doses: Ingesting large amounts of parsley, especially in the form of concentrated tea or oil, can be toxic and lead to symptoms such as dizziness, kidney damage, and even neurological problems. These effects are concerning for the general population, but they pose additional risks during pregnancy.
• Potential for Miscarriage: Given the potential for parsley to induce uterine contractions and its historical use as an emmenagogue (a substance that stimulates menstrual flow), there is a significant concern about its use during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester.
Given these potential risks, it's advisable for pregnant women to avoid parsley tea and consult with a healthcare provider before consuming any herbal teas or supplements during pregnancy.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is often recommended for insomnia, anxiety and problems with digestion. While one cup once in a while, can relax you, it’s recommended that you avoid it as much as possible due to suggested links with circulation problems in babies. Ginger tea in pregnancy can also help with digestion problems including constipation.
There are certain teas that claim to help you sleep, but before you try them, check whether they have the ingredient Valerian, as this is what should be avoided. There is not sufficient research on the safety of Valerian during pregnancy and some studies have indicated that it may reduce the level of zinc in your developing baby’s brain. Zinc is necessary for healthy brain development once your baby is born.
Raspberry leaf tea
Raspberry leaf tea is often taken around the 32 week mark by mums-to-be, as many believe it helps tone the muscles of your uterus. This, in turn, helps prepare your body for labour. However there are some circumstances when raspberry leaf tea is not recommended.
Raspberry leaf tea is generally not recommended during the first trimester, as it might stimulate the uterus and could potentially increase the risk of miscarriage. It is typically advised to start drinking it in the second or third trimester, but always under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
While the tea is used to tone the uterus, in some cases, it might cause stronger or more frequent contractions. If you experience any unusual cramping or contractions after drinking raspberry leaf tea, it's important to stop and consult your healthcare provider.
Ginger tea
Ginger tea is well-known for its ability to ease nausea and vomiting, making it a popular choice for alleviating morning sickness during pregnancy. It can also help with digestion and reduce inflammation. It's generally safe to consume in moderate amounts, but large quantities should be avoided to prevent potential heartburn or other issues.
A study on over 1,000 women found no increased risk in complications among the babies of women who consumed ginger during pregnancy.
But, says the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, the evidence of safety isn't conclusive. So while it is said to be safe during pregnancy, we advise you discuss the benefits of ginger and risks with your doctor or midwife before drinking it.
Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea is effective for soothing an upset stomach, reducing nausea, and relieving indigestion. It can also help alleviate headaches and tension. This is safe in moderate amounts, but like all herbal teas, it's best not to overconsume.
Remember, talking to your midwife about drinking herbal teas during pregnancy is crucial because it ensures that you make safe and informed choices for both you and your baby. Herbal teas, while often beneficial, can have varying effects during pregnancy, and some may pose risks. Consulting your midwife allows you to receive personalized advice based on your health, symptoms, and any medications or supplements you might be taking. This conversation helps you avoid potential complications, ensuring that any herbal teas you consume are safe and supportive of a healthy pregnancy.
Adejumoke Ilori is a Commercial and Content Writer for Mother&Baby. She is a mommy of one and enjoys writing about baby world, mothership, true life stories (especially single parenthood), and celebrity gossip. And, with a degree in Creative Writing, she has also worked with media platforms like, OK! Magazine, New, She Rose Revolution and Fab Magazine.