Can you take echinacea cough drops while breastfeeding?

Echinacea and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
As a breastfeeding mother, navigating the world of herbal remedies can be daunting, especially when it comes to products like echinacea. This popular herbal supplement is often used to combat colds and boost the immune system, but is it safe to use while nursing?
Safety Profile of Echinacea
According to various health sources, echinacea is generally considered to have a minimal risk when taken during breastfeeding. The “Essential Guide to Herbal Safety” categorizes echinacea as having a low level of evidence for safety, primarily based on theoretical evidence and expert opinion. This means that while there is no strong clinical evidence against its use, the data is not robust enough to guarantee complete safety.
Importantly, there is no evidence suggesting that echinacea decreases breast milk production, which is a common concern among nursing mothers. This is a significant point, as many medications and herbal supplements can potentially affect milk supply.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While echinacea is largely deemed safe, it is essential to be aware of potential allergic reactions. Some individuals may experience allergies to echinacea, which could pose a risk not only to the mother but also to the breastfeeding infant. Therefore, if you have a history of allergies, particularly to plants in the daisy family (which includes echinacea), caution is advised.
Additionally, the form of echinacea you choose matters. Some preparations, such as tinctures, may contain alcohol, which should be avoided during breastfeeding. Always check the ingredients and opt for alcohol-free formulations when possible.
General Recommendations for Cough Drops
If you’re considering echinacea cough drops specifically, the general consensus is that most cough drops are safe to use while breastfeeding. They typically contain sugar and flavorings, with some containing menthol or other active ingredients. However, it’s wise to read labels carefully and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about specific ingredients.
Conclusion
In summary, taking echinacea cough drops while breastfeeding is generally considered safe, provided you are mindful of potential allergies and the specific formulation of the product. As always, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant before introducing any new supplement or medication into your routine. This ensures that both you and your baby remain healthy and safe while navigating the challenges of breastfeeding.

Can you have menthol cough drops while pregnant?

Menthol: Menthol is contained in some cough drops and lozenges. There is limited data on the safety of menthol during pregnancy. Other medications with more data for safety during pregnancy may be preferred. Menthol should only be used if benefits are greater than the potential risk to the fetus.

Can you take echinacea lozenges when pregnant?

It’s probably safe to take echinacea while you’re pregnant, but to be on the cautious side, you might want to avoid it. Here’s why: While many experts would rate echinacea as low risk, there’s not enough data to say it’s 100-percent safe during pregnancy.

Can I take vitamin C and echinacea while breastfeeding?

More research is needed. In the meantime, avoid using Echinacea during pregnancy or breastfeeding until more conclusive studies are conducted. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.

Who Cannot take echinacea?

“Auto-immune disorders” such as such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a skin disorder called pemphigus vulgaris, or others: Echinacea might have an effect on the immune system that could make these conditions worse.

What can I take for a bad cough while breastfeeding?

Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby. Guaifenesin is an expectorant.

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.

Can you take echinacea drops 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.

Is emergen C safe for breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

Which cough drops are safe for pregnancy?

Cough & Cold: Cough Drops

• Halls Menthol Cough Suppressant/Oral Anesthetic Plus Medicine Center.
• Ricola Cough Suppressant Throat Drops.
• Vicks Menthol Cough Suppressant/Oral Anesthetic Drops.

What kind of cough drops are safe while breastfeeding?

Benzocaine cough drops or lozenges (with or without menthol) are an excellent choice for cough relief in breastfeeding mothers. Common trade names: Cepacol. Honey (L3).