Is hibiscus in tea safe during pregnancy?

Is Hibiscus Tea Safe During Pregnancy?
Hibiscus tea, known for its vibrant color and tart flavor, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. However, when it comes to pregnancy, the safety of consuming hibiscus tea remains a topic of debate among health professionals and researchers.
Lack of Comprehensive Research
Currently, there is a significant gap in research specifically addressing the effects of hibiscus tea during pregnancy. Most studies have focused on animal models or have been limited in scope, leading to inconclusive results. For instance, while some animal studies suggest that high doses of hibiscus extract could negatively impact liver function, there is no direct evidence linking hibiscus tea consumption to adverse pregnancy outcomes in humans.
Potential Risks
Despite the lack of definitive studies, several health experts advise caution. Hibiscus tea is thought to have properties that could potentially stimulate menstruation or affect hormone levels, which raises concerns about its safety during pregnancy. Some reports indicate that hibiscus may lead to complications such as early labor, bleeding, cramping, or even miscarriage. Given these potential risks, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding hibiscus tea altogether during pregnancy.
Moderation and Individual Considerations
On the other hand, some sources suggest that hibiscus tea may be safe in moderation. They argue that the fear surrounding its consumption is not entirely backed by substantial evidence. For example, a few experts note that while hibiscus is not typically recommended during pregnancy, moderate consumption might not pose significant risks for all women. This perspective emphasizes the importance of individual circumstances and the need for personalized advice from healthcare providers.
Nutritional Benefits
Hibiscus tea is rich in antioxidants and has been associated with various health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and improving liver health. These benefits can be appealing, especially for those looking to maintain overall wellness during pregnancy. However, the potential risks often outweigh these benefits, leading many to err on the side of caution.
Conclusion
In summary, while hibiscus tea offers several health benefits, its safety during pregnancy is not well-established. The consensus among many health professionals is to avoid hibiscus tea due to potential risks associated with its consumption. Pregnant individuals should consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their specific situations and consider safer alternatives for hydration and nutrition during this critical time.

Who shouldn’t drink hibiscus tea?

Hibiscus tea should be completely avoided by infants under 6 months as well as kids with kidney failure, who can’t efficiently excrete it.

Is it safe to drink hibiscus tea while pregnant?

Hibiscus, while known for its health benefits, should be consumed with caution during pregnancy. It is advised to limit hibiscus tea intake during pregnancy due to its potential to lower blood pressure and its association with uterine contractions, which could be harmful.

What teas should be avoided during pregnancy?

Pregnant women should limit their consumption of herbal tea. Teas containing ginger, citrus peel, lemon balm, and rose hips probably are safe in moderation. Pregnant women should avoid teas containing chamomile, licorice, peppermint, or raspberry leaf.

Can I drink hibiscus while breastfeeding?

Breast-feeding: Hibiscus sabdariffa is possibly unsafe to use while breast-feeding. It might have effects that can be harmful to the infant. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Does hibiscus tea increase breast milk?

Summary of Use during Lactation
Other Hibiscus species are also used medicinally. Hibiscus is purportedly used as a galactogogue in some cultures and is included in some proprietary mixtures promoted to increase milk supply;[1,2] however, no scientifically valid clinical trials support this use.

What happens if you accidentally drink hibiscus tea while pregnant?

And it turned out she was right! Hibiscus tea can cause fluctuations in hormone levels which isn’t safe — especially in the first trimester. Hibiscus tea can also have “emmenagogue effects” which stimulate menstruation or blood flow to the uterus. This could cause bleeding, cramping, or even early labor!

What herbs are not safe during pregnancy?

Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy

Scientific Name	Common Name(s)	Part(s) Used
Peumus boldus	Boldo	leaves
Piper methysticum	Kava kava	Rhizomes, root
Rhamnus purshiana	Espino cerval, Buckthorn	Corteza
Rheum spp	Ruibarbo, Rhubarb	Root

Why do I feel weird after drinking hibiscus tea?

Drinking hibiscus tea can be enjoyed on a frequent basis, but like with most things, it can be overdone. Side effects of consuming too much hibiscus tea include transient dizziness and fatigue due to how it may affect blood pressure.

What not to drink during pregnancy?

Avoid alcohol when you’re pregnant and limit coffee and tea so you don’t have too much caffeine.

What herbs should I avoid during pregnancy?

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