Is spearmint tea safe to drink while breastfeeding?

Is Spearmint Tea Safe to Drink While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to the safety of consuming spearmint tea during breastfeeding, the consensus among health professionals and recent studies suggests a cautious approach. While spearmint tea is often enjoyed for its refreshing flavor and potential health benefits, it may not be the best choice for nursing mothers.
Potential Effects on Milk Supply
One of the primary concerns regarding spearmint tea is its potential to affect breast milk production. According to various sources, including health experts, both spearmint and peppermint teas are known to possibly reduce milk supply. This is particularly relevant for mothers who are concerned about maintaining adequate milk production for their infants. While moderate consumption may not lead to significant issues for all women, some mothers have reported a decrease in milk supply after consuming these herbal teas.
Individual Sensitivities
It’s important to note that individual responses to spearmint can vary. Some mothers may find that they are particularly sensitive to mint in any form, which could exacerbate any potential issues with milk supply. Therefore, if a breastfeeding mother notices any changes in her milk production or her baby’s behavior after consuming spearmint tea, it may be wise to discontinue its use and consult a healthcare professional.
General Recommendations
Health professionals generally advise breastfeeding mothers to be cautious with herbal teas, including spearmint. While occasional consumption might not pose a significant risk, it is recommended to limit intake and monitor any effects on milk supply. If a mother is looking to enjoy herbal teas, it may be beneficial to explore alternatives that are known to be safe and supportive of breastfeeding, such as chamomile or rooibos tea.
In conclusion, while spearmint tea can be a delightful beverage, breastfeeding mothers should approach it with caution due to its potential effects on milk supply and individual sensitivities. Consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance tailored to each mother’s unique situation.

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.

Can I drink chai tea while breastfeeding?

Yes, a chai latte is typically safe while breastfeeding in moderation. It does contain caffeine, which can pass into breast milk (5), so limiting intake to one cup a day is generally best to avoid potential sleep disturbances in your baby.

Does spearmint dry up 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.

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.

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.

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.

Is spearmint tea different from peppermint tea?

Peppermint has more menthol and a highly intense flavor, while the taste of spearmint is subtle and sweeter. But when choosing tea, there’s more to consider than just flavor. Different teas offer distinct health benefits — and spearmint tea brings a lot to the table.

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.

Can a breastfeeding mother drink spearmint tea?

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.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.