Is hibiscus tea safe for breastfeeding?

Is Hibiscus Tea Safe for Breastfeeding?
Hibiscus tea, known for its vibrant color and tart flavor, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. However, when it comes to breastfeeding mothers, the safety of hibiscus tea remains a topic of debate among health professionals.
Lack of Comprehensive Research
Currently, there is a significant lack of scientific evidence supporting the safety of hibiscus tea during breastfeeding. While some cultures use hibiscus as a galactagogue—believed to help increase milk supply—there are no scientifically valid clinical trials to substantiate these claims. This absence of rigorous research raises concerns about the potential effects of hibiscus on both mothers and their infants.
Potential Risks
Some studies suggest that hibiscus may not be entirely safe for pregnant women, which could extend to breastfeeding mothers. For instance, a study conducted on pregnant rats indicated that regular consumption of hibiscus could lead to maternal malnutrition and delayed puberty in offspring. Although this research was conducted on animals, it highlights the need for caution.
Moreover, health experts generally advise against the consumption of hibiscus tea while breastfeeding due to the uncertainty surrounding its effects. A review of various sources indicates that while some mothers report no adverse effects, the consensus leans towards caution, recommending that nursing mothers avoid hibiscus tea altogether.
Health Benefits vs. Safety Concerns
Hibiscus tea is often praised for its potential health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. However, these benefits must be weighed against the potential risks, especially when it comes to the delicate balance of breastfeeding. The FDA does not regulate herbal supplements for safety and effectiveness before they hit the market, which adds another layer of uncertainty for nursing mothers considering hibiscus tea.
Conclusion
In summary, while hibiscus tea may offer some health benefits, the lack of conclusive evidence regarding its safety during breastfeeding suggests that it is best avoided. Nursing mothers are encouraged to prioritize their health and that of their infants by opting for beverages with a well-established safety profile. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider before introducing any new food or drink into a breastfeeding regimen is advisable.

Is hibiscus in tea safe during pregnancy?

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 you avoid when pregnant?

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.

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.

Does hibiscus boost milk supply?

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 does hibiscus do to hormones?

Hibiscus sabdariffa (H. sabdariffa), often prepared as a tea, contains phytoestrogens which may create hormone imbalances. This hormone imbalance may inhibit coagulation2 and may lower the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

Can a breastfeeding mother drink hibiscus tea?

While hibiscus tea offers plenty of health benefits, it’s usually not recommended if you’re pregnant or lactating.

Who should not 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.

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 teas should you 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.