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Is it safe to drink hibiscus during pregnancy?

The Safety of Hibiscus Tea During Pregnancy
As more expectant mothers turn to herbal teas for hydration and potential health benefits, the question of hibiscus tea’s safety during pregnancy has emerged as a significant concern. While hibiscus tea is celebrated for its vibrant color and tart flavor, its consumption during pregnancy is fraught with caution.
Potential Risks Associated with Hibiscus Tea
Medical experts generally advise against drinking hibiscus tea during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. The primary concern stems from its classification as an emmenagogue, a substance that can stimulate menstrual flow. This characteristic raises alarms about the potential for hibiscus to induce cramping, bleeding, or even miscarriage in pregnant women.
Moreover, some studies suggest that hibiscus tea may be linked to delayed puberty in children, further complicating its safety profile during pregnancy. While the evidence is not exhaustive, the consensus among health professionals leans towards caution. Many recommend avoiding hibiscus entirely throughout pregnancy to mitigate any risks.
Moderation and Individual Considerations
Interestingly, there are voices in the discussion that suggest hibiscus may be safe in moderation. Some sources argue that the fear surrounding hibiscus consumption is not entirely backed by conclusive evidence. However, this perspective is often overshadowed by the prevailing cautionary stance. The lack of comprehensive studies specifically targeting pregnant women makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about hibiscus tea’s safety.
Alternatives to Hibiscus Tea
For those seeking herbal alternatives during pregnancy, options such as peppermint, rosemary, and red raspberry leaf tea are often recommended. These alternatives are generally considered safer and can provide various health benefits without the associated risks of hibiscus.
Conclusion
In summary, while hibiscus tea is a popular herbal beverage, its consumption during pregnancy is generally discouraged due to potential risks, particularly in the early stages. Expectant mothers are advised to consult with healthcare providers to explore safer alternatives and ensure the health and safety of both themselves and their developing babies. As always, when it comes to pregnancy, erring on the side of caution is paramount.

Which 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

Does hibiscus increase fertility?

Traditionally this drug is attributed to antifertility activity in Ayurvedic literature (7). The flowers have been reported to posses anti-implantation and antispermatogenic activities (8,9). The petroleum ether extracts of the leaves and flowers have been shown to potentiate hair growth in vivo and in vitro (10).

Why can’t you 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!

Can hibiscus affect fertility?

In conclusion, the present study suggests that the ethanol extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis root posseses anti-implantation activity, and the estrogenic property of the extract may be responsible, at least partly, for this anticonceptive effect.

Can hibiscus trigger labor?

Pregnancy concerns
The phytoestrogens in hibiscus tea may cause complications during pregnancy. For instance, they may trigger preterm labor. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you may want to avoid hibiscus tea or look for an alternative.

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.

Which spice is not good for pregnancy?

What’s Not Safe

Name of the Herb Possible Effects
Cinnamon Overuse can cause liver toxicity
Nutmeg Miscarriage or premature labour
Saffron Overuse may over-stimulate the womb
Rosemary Overuse may cause contractions

What herbs cause uterine contractions?

Herbs such as blue and black cohosh, raspberry leaf tea, and evening primrose oil have been sold as a way to “prepare” your uterus for labor. Not so fast. Cohosh has been associated with fetal heart failure and stroke as well as maternal complications during labor.

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.

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.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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