In the attempt to avoid caffeine in pregnancy, many women drink herbal tea. While avoidance of caffeine, especially in large amounts, is advisable during pregnancy, it is often difficult to find good information about herbal tea and pregnancy. One rule is to discuss any questionable substances with your healthcare provider before you consume them. While some herbs can be helpful during pregnancy, they are not regulated by the FDA and little true research has been done on many products. Here is a list of some of the know facts concerning herbal tea and pregnancy.
Since herbal teas are caffeine free, they are an excellent way to enjoy a flavored beverage. Increase consumption of liquids is important in pregnancy as the mother’s blood volume must increase to accommodate the increased demand on her circulatory system. However, it is important for pregnant women to avoid substances that cause blood vessel to constrict. This will decrease blood flow to the fetus and is one of the reasons for avoiding caffeine.
Consult your doctor if you are unsure of any herbal tea.
Another group of herbal teas to avoid in pregnancy are those containing fat soluble vitamins, particularly vitamin A. Because these vitamins remain in the body for extended periods of time and cross the placenta to the baby, they can be harmful. For this reason herbal teas containing dandelions, yellow dock, alfalfa, and nettles, also known as stinging nettles, should be avoided in pregnancy.
Herbal teas which are generally safe in pregnancy are those made from such ingredients are lemon, lime, or orange rinds, mint leaves or cinnamon added to decaffeinate non-herbal tea. Since it is impossible to remove all the caffeine, these should be consumed in limited portions. Red raspberry leaf tea is often recommended in pregnancy and is generally felt to be safe as is peppermint tea which is frequently used to decrease nausea early in pregnancy.
There are teas which are marketed specifically for pregnant and nursing mothers. While these maybe safe and beneficial, it is important to look at the ingredients before buying them. It is also important to remember that consuming anything in large quantities can be harmful. While certain herbal tea and pregnancy are compatible, if there is any cause for concern, what until your health care provider can be consulted.
