Can I have echinacea when breastfeeding?

Echinacea and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
As a nursing mother, you may be considering various herbal remedies to support your health, including echinacea. This popular herb is often used to prevent or treat upper respiratory infections, but its safety during breastfeeding is a topic of ongoing discussion.
Safety Profile of Echinacea During Breastfeeding
Current evidence suggests that echinacea is generally considered non-toxic for nursing mothers. However, the research surrounding its use during breastfeeding is limited. While some anecdotal and traditional data indicate that echinacea may be safe, there is a notable lack of comprehensive studies specifically addressing its effects on breastfeeding mothers and their infants.
The Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) notes that echinacea does not have specific uses during breastfeeding, but it is commonly taken orally for respiratory issues. Importantly, there is no evidence to suggest that echinacea decreases breast milk production, which is a common concern among nursing mothers.
Forms of Echinacea and Considerations
Echinacea is available in various forms, including teas, tinctures, and capsules. It’s crucial to be cautious with tinctures, as they may contain alcohol, which should be avoided during breastfeeding . If you opt for echinacea tea, be aware that some sources recommend avoiding it altogether due to potential risks associated with herbal teas during breastfeeding.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
Given the limited research and the potential for side effects, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating echinacea into your routine while breastfeeding. A healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on your health history and specific needs.
In summary, while echinacea is generally regarded as safe for nursing mothers, the lack of extensive research means that caution is warranted. Engaging with a healthcare provider can help ensure that you make informed decisions about your health and the well-being of your baby.

Which cold medicine is safe for breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

Are there any herbs to avoid while breastfeeding?

Herbs to avoid while breastfeeding

• Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)
• Sage (Salvia officinalis)
• Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Yarrow

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

What can I take for immune system while breastfeeding?

Vitamin D3: Vitamin D3 supports infection-fighting cells and overall immune health. Taking 6,400 IU daily can ensure both you and your baby benefit, as 400 IU passes through breastmilk. Pair Vitamin D3 with K2 for better calcium absorption and cardiovascular support.

Is echinacea safe while breastfeeding?

There is no information about the safety and efficacy of echinacea in breastfeeding. If you take echinacea while breastfeeding, watch for possible side effects in your baby, such as diarrhoea or constipation, poor feeding and skin rashes.

How can I fight a cold while breastfeeding?

Making sure you take in plenty of fluids and eat nourishing foods. Use saline sprays and humidifiers for nasal congestion and throat lozenges for sore throat and cough. If you are sick enough to need antiviral medications, Tamiflu is preferred for breastfeeding mothers over other antiviral medications.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Who should not take echinacea?

People with tuberculosis, leukemia, diabetes, connective tissue disorders, multiple sclerosis, HIV or AIDS, any autoimmune diseases, or, possibly, liver disorders should not take echinacea. There is some concern that echinacea may reduce the effectiveness of medications that suppress the immune system.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.