Herbal teas and herbs, as in the past, have become an important part of our lives in recent years. Especially consumed for protection against and prevention of illness, the use of herbal teas and herbs, although not based on scientific data, dates back almost as far as human history. However, there are some points to consider when drinking herbal tea. Unconscious consumption of herbal teas and herbs, particularly during pregnancy, can have negative consequences for both you and your unborn baby.
Are herbal teas safe during pregnancy?
Some herbal teas are recommended during pregnancy, provided they are consumed in limited daily amounts. However, others are not permitted during pregnancy. For example, some herbs can cause discomfort such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, while others stimulate uterine contractions. Many women consume beverages like fennel, linden, chamomile, rosehip, regular tea, and green tea during pregnancy to reduce nausea and meet their fluid needs. However, it is important to limit the consumption of these types of teas to no more than two cups a day.
Herbs That Are Dangerous to Drink During Pregnancy
- Clove oil: It is a uterine stimulant. It can initiate uterine contractions.
- Juniper and juniper oil: They are uterine stimulants. They can initiate uterine contractions.
- Mistletoe: It is a uterine stimulant. It can initiate uterine contractions.
- False Ginseng: May cause birth defects.
- Cinchona: May cause blindness and coma.
- Wild yam: It is a uterine stimulant. It can initiate uterine contractions.
Herbs That Can Be Dangerous to Drink in Excessive Amounts During Pregnancy
- Angelica: High doses can trigger uterine contractions. It can be used in low doses and in specific amounts in food.
- Maple tree: It is a strong laxative; high doses are not recommended.
- Anise and anise seed oil: High doses can trigger uterine contractions. They can be used in small amounts, preferably in food.
- Cumin: High doses can trigger uterine contractions. It can be used in small doses and in specific amounts in meals.
- Chamomile oil: Applying it to your abdomen can reduce the formation of stretch marks during pregnancy. It has a stimulating effect on uterine muscles and can be consumed as a tea in specific doses.
- Cinnamon: In low doses, it strengthens the immune system. Consuming it in winter will be effective in preventing the flu and common colds. High doses can trigger uterine contractions. It can be used in small amounts in meals.
- Fennel and fennel oil: In low doses, they have positive effects on the digestive system. High doses can trigger uterine contractions. They can be used in small amounts and in meals.
- Garlic: Consuming it in high doses can cause heartburn. It can also impart its own odor to breast milk during lactation.
- Lavender: High doses can trigger uterine contractions. It can be used in small doses and in specific amounts in food.
- Senna: A strong laxative; high doses are not recommended.
- Black tea: Drinking too much can cause palpitations. It also has a diuretic effect, increasing your body's need for water.
In summary, I recommend that you avoid consuming herbal teas excessively and without proper knowledge during pregnancy, and if you do decide to consume them, you should definitely consult your doctor.
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