Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is spearmint tea safe for breastfeeding?

Is spearmint tea safe for breastfeeding?

Is Spearmint Tea Safe for Breastfeeding?
When it comes to the safety of consuming spearmint tea while breastfeeding, the consensus among health professionals and recent studies suggests caution. While herbal teas can offer various benefits, certain types, including spearmint, may have implications for milk supply and overall breastfeeding health.
Potential Effects on Milk Supply
Spearmint tea, along with other mint varieties like peppermint, has been noted for its potential to reduce milk supply in breastfeeding mothers. According to recent findings, consuming large amounts of spearmint or peppermint can lead to a decrease in breast milk production. This is particularly concerning for mothers who are already struggling with supply issues or those who wish to maintain a robust breastfeeding routine.
Anecdotal Evidence and Personal Experiences
Many mothers share their experiences with herbal teas during breastfeeding, often highlighting the benefits of relaxation and soothing properties. However, anecdotal evidence also points to some mothers noticing a drop in milk supply after consuming significant amounts of mint teas. While some women report no adverse effects, it is essential to monitor individual responses to these herbal infusions.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
Given the mixed evidence and potential risks, healthcare providers typically recommend that breastfeeding mothers consult with their doctors or lactation consultants before introducing new herbal teas into their diets. This is especially important for those who are concerned about their milk supply or who have experienced issues in the past.
Conclusion
In summary, while spearmint tea can be enjoyed in moderation, breastfeeding mothers should be cautious about its potential effects on milk supply. It is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals to ensure that any herbal tea consumption aligns with personal health needs and breastfeeding goals. As always, listening to one’s body and observing any changes in milk production can guide mothers in making informed choices about their dietary habits during this crucial time.

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.

Does spearmint tea affect milk supply?

And unfortunately, menthol has been shown to decrease milk supply in some breastfeeding women. This doesn’t mean that you have to swear off mint altogether though. There is another variety of mint that is considered safer for nursing mothers: Spearmint.

Does mint tea affect breastfeeding?

Mint teas, and related herbs like lemon balm, can reduce breastmilk production so they aren’t recommended when you are your baby’s sole source of nutrition. Even then, one cup every now and then wouldn’t likely affect supply, it’s more of an issue when drinking multiple cups day after day.

What tea increases milk supply?

The Moringa Blend loose leaf tea is caffeine-free, non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, and made in the United States. It uses moringa instead of fenugreek to help boost milk supply, so it doesn’t have the strong licorice-like taste some people associate with fenugreek.

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.

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.

Is spearmint tea safe during pregnancy?

Pregnancy: Spearmint and spearmint oil are commonly consumed in foods. But spearmint is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in large amounts during pregnancy. Very large doses of spearmint tea might damage the uterus. Avoid using large amounts of spearmint during pregnancy.

Is dong quai safe while breastfeeding?

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
DO NOT use dong quai during pregnancy. It may cause the uterus to contract and raise the risk of miscarriage. Nursing mothers should not take dong quai because no one knows if it is safe when you are breastfeeding.

Does mint leaves dry up breast milk?

Peppermint and sage are reputed to decrease milk production when consumed in large or concentrated amounts. Frequent brushing with toothpaste containing real peppermint oil or even eating potent peppermint candies has caused trouble for some mothers.

What can I drink to lose belly fat while breastfeeding?

1) Drink At Least 8 Cups Of Water Every Day
And it’s especially important for breastfeeding moms. Water helps your body naturally shed unwanted pounds because water: Contributes to regular body functions, like circulation, digestion, regulation of body temperature, transportation of nutrients, and milk production.

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.

Leave a Comment