Can I drink valerian root tea while breastfeeding?

Can I Drink Valerian Root Tea While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether valerian root tea is safe for breastfeeding mothers is a nuanced one, with varying opinions among health professionals and limited research on the subject. Valerian root, known scientifically as *Valeriana officinalis*, is commonly used for its sedative properties, often sought after by those struggling with anxiety and sleep disturbances. However, its use during lactation raises some concerns.
Safety Concerns and Recommendations
Many health sources advise caution when it comes to valerian root during breastfeeding. The primary concern stems from the presence of compounds in valerian, such as valepotriates and baldrinals, which have shown cytotoxic and mutagenic effects in laboratory settings. Due to the lack of comprehensive studies on the effects of valerian on nursing mothers and their infants, some experts recommend avoiding it altogether.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) notes that while valerian is not specifically contraindicated for nursing mothers, there is no established safety profile for its use during lactation. This uncertainty is echoed by the Office of Dietary Supplements, which advises against the consumption of valerian tea by pregnant or breastfeeding individuals due to insufficient data on its safety and efficacy in these populations.
Contrasting Views
On the other hand, some sources suggest that valerian may not pose significant risks to breastfeeding mothers. For instance, a review from E-lactation indicates that valerian is considered compatible with breastfeeding and does not appear to be risky for infants. Additionally, anecdotal evidence from forums and discussions among mothers suggests that some have used valerian without apparent adverse effects on their breastfeeding experience.
Conclusion
In summary, while valerian root tea is a popular herbal remedy for anxiety and sleep issues, its safety during breastfeeding remains a topic of debate. The prevailing advice leans towards caution, with many health professionals recommending that breastfeeding mothers avoid valerian due to the potential risks and the lack of definitive research. If you are considering valerian root tea as a remedy, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to weigh the benefits against the potential risks for both you and your baby.

Is valerian root tea safe while breastfeeding?

Valerian may not be safe if you’re pregnant or breast-feeding. And it has not been evaluated to determine if it’s safe for children under 3 years old. If you have liver disease, avoid taking valerian. And because valerian can make you drowsy, avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery after taking it.

What can I drink to sleep while breastfeeding?

Warm milk. Warm milk before bedtime is a traditional remedy for insomnia. Milk, like many sources of protein, contains the amino acid L-tryptophan. Tryptophan raises the level of serotonin in the brain, which may help make you sleepy.

Can I drink sleepytime tea while pregnant?

Also, pregnant women should use caution when using sleepytime teas. Chamomile, lemongrass, and other herbal ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy. Always consult with your doctor about your use of herbal teas during pregnancy.

What teas should you avoid while breastfeeding?

Some types of tea can affect breastmilk production and cause side effects in the baby. Teas that should be avoided include lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, kava andillicium verum. They should be avoided whenever possible, or consumed only under the supervision of a doctor.

Are there any herbs to avoid while breastfeeding?

But some herbs may affect how much milk your body makes. For instance, eating a lot of parsley could curb lactation. And too much sage and peppermint may cut your milk supply. For some nursing moms, even peppermint-flavored toothpaste and candies are a problem.

Can I have sleepytime tea while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can drink chamomile tea while breastfeeding. Chamomile tea is a herbal infusion that’s often used for its calming properties and ability to soothe an upset stomach. The American Pregnancy Association 1 states that chamomile is generally safe while breastfeeding when consumed in moderation.

Can you drink valerian tea while pregnant?

Experts advise pregnant and nursing women to avoid taking valerian. Some people may have a paradoxical reaction to valerian, feeling anxious and restless after taking it instead of calm and sleepy. For most people, valerian does not appear to cause dependency. Nor does it cause withdrawal symptoms for most.

Is valerian root in tea safe?

Research suggests that valerian is generally safe for short-term use by most adults. It has been used with apparent safety in studies lasting up to 28 days. The safety of long-term use of valerian is unknown. Little is known about whether it’s safe to use valerian during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

How long does valerian tea stay in your system?

So how long does valerian root stay in your system? Half the dose is typically broken down within about two hours. It takes up to 6 hours for your body to process the full dosage. This is perfect for helping you get to sleep without making you feel groggy in the morning.

What can you take for sleep while breastfeeding?

However, the ‘z- drugs’ (zolpidem and zopiclone) are preferred for the short-term management of insomnia during breastfeeding, as they have shorter half-lives than the benzodiazepines and appear to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Melatonin can also be used in breastfeeding with caution.