Can I take rhodiola while breastfeeding?

Understanding Rhodiola and Breastfeeding
Rhodiola rosea, commonly known as rhodiola, is an adaptogenic herb that has gained popularity for its potential benefits in enhancing physical and mental performance, reducing stress, and improving mood. However, when it comes to its use during breastfeeding, caution is advised.
Safety Concerns
The consensus among health professionals is that breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before using rhodiola. This recommendation stems from the lack of comprehensive research on the safety of rhodiola during lactation. While some anecdotal evidence suggests that it may be safe, the absence of definitive studies means that potential risks cannot be ruled out.
Moreover, the Merck Manual highlights that rhodiola is not generally recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the potential for side effects and drug interactions that could affect both the mother and the child. This caution is echoed by various health sources, which emphasize that the benefits of rhodiola do not outweigh the risks associated with its use during this sensitive period.
Research Insights
Some studies have explored the effects of rhodiola on immune responses in offspring when administered to pregnant and lactating mice. These studies indicated changes in immune cell populations, which raises concerns about the herb’s impact on human lactation and infant health. However, direct evidence in humans remains scarce.
Conclusion
In summary, while rhodiola may offer various health benefits, its use during breastfeeding is not well-studied and is generally discouraged. If you are considering taking rhodiola while breastfeeding, it is crucial to have a discussion with your healthcare provider to ensure the safety of both you and your baby. Prioritizing safety during this time is essential, as the health of both mother and child is paramount.

Can you take adaptogens while breastfeeding?

Adaptogens typically state on the packaging that they are not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding as they haven’t been sufficiently tested.

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.

Is rhodiola safe during pregnancy?

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if rhodiola is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Why no ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

What are the negatives of rhodiola?

Possible side effects include dizziness and either dry mouth or excessive saliva production. Little is known about whether it’s safe to use rhodiola during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Which of the following herbs should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation?

Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy

Scientific Name	Common Name(s)	Form of Use
Peumus boldus	Boldo	Tea
Piper methysticum	Kava kava	Liquid extracts, capsules
Rhamnus purshiana	Espino cerval, Buckthorn	Tea, capsules
Rheum spp	Ruibarbo, Rhubarb	Tea, capsules

Are there any herbs you shouldn’t take 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.

Who should not take rhodiola?

Rhodiola is not generally recommended because the claimed beneficial effects on health have not been confirmed in high-quality studies in people and do not outweigh the risk of side effects or drug interactions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, children, and people with autoimmune disorders should avoid rhodiola.

Why should I avoid ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.