Is hibiscus okay while breastfeeding?

Understanding Hibiscus and Breastfeeding
Hibiscus, a vibrant flower often used in teas and herbal remedies, raises questions about its safety for breastfeeding mothers. While hibiscus is celebrated for its potential health benefits, its effects during lactation are less clear and warrant careful consideration.
Safety Concerns
Current guidance suggests that it is best to avoid hibiscus products while breastfeeding. The primary concern stems from a lack of robust scientific evidence supporting the safety of hibiscus for nursing mothers and their infants. While hibiscus is sometimes touted as a galactagogue—an agent believed to promote milk production—there are no scientifically valid clinical trials to substantiate this claim.
Moreover, some studies indicate that hibiscus extracts can lead to adverse effects, including potential liver damage when consumed in large quantities. This raises further caution for breastfeeding mothers, as the health of both the mother and the infant is paramount.
Cultural Perspectives and Anecdotal Evidence
In some cultures, hibiscus is traditionally used to enhance milk supply. However, these practices are often based on anecdotal evidence rather than rigorous scientific research. The consensus among health professionals is that the most effective way to support lactation is through frequent, on-demand breastfeeding, rather than relying on herbal supplements.
Regulatory Considerations
Another critical aspect to consider is that herbal supplements, including those containing hibiscus, are not regulated by the FDA for safety and effectiveness prior to their market release. This lack of regulation means that the quality and concentration of active ingredients can vary significantly between products, posing additional risks to breastfeeding mothers.
Conclusion
In summary, while hibiscus may be enjoyed in moderation during pregnancy, breastfeeding mothers are advised to exercise caution and avoid hibiscus products. The potential risks, coupled with the absence of conclusive evidence supporting its safety and efficacy, suggest that it is prudent to prioritize well-established methods of supporting lactation. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended for personalized advice and guidance.

What drinks to avoid when breastfeeding?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

What kind of tea dries up breast milk?

To help dry up your milk supply: Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma.

Is hibiscus safe for babies?

“No part of the Hibiscus plant, the leaves or the flowers, are poisonous to humans, so it is safe to have the plant around children, toddlers, and babies.”

Can I drink hibiscus while breastfeeding?

This is because it may decrease blood sugar or blood pressure levels. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not drink hibiscus tea. Drinking hibiscus tea in moderation is generally considered safe. However, other products containing hibiscus are not regulated and may or may not contain what they claim.

Why is hibiscus bad for pregnancy?

But if you’re pregnant, you don’t necessarily want your hormones messed with. Known as the emmenagogue effect, hibiscus tea and extracts can encourage blood flow to the uterus to help stimulate menstruation. Side effects, in theory, can include cramping, bleeding, early labor, and even miscarriage.

What herbs are not safe while breastfeeding?

Among the other milk-drying suspects: Aloe, alder buckthorn, barberry, cascara sagrada, ginseng, ephedra, ginger, goldenseal, green tea, guarana, kola nut, ma huang, male fern, parsley, purging buckthorn, rhubarb, sage, senna, wormwood, and yerba mate.

Who should avoid hibiscus?

Avoid hibiscus if you are allergic or sensitive to it or members of the Malvaceae plant family. Use with caution if you have low or high blood pressure. Interactions.

What teas should I 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.

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.

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.