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Is uva ursi safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Uva Ursi and Its Safety During Breastfeeding
Uva ursi, also known as bearberry, is a plant whose leaves have been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, particularly for urinary tract health. However, when it comes to its use during breastfeeding, the consensus among health professionals is one of caution.
Lack of Research and Potential Risks
Currently, there is a significant gap in research regarding the safety of uva ursi for nursing mothers and their infants. According to multiple sources, including the Drugs and Lactation Database, there are no studies that specifically examine the excretion of uva ursi components into breast milk or their effects on breastfeeding infants . This absence of data raises concerns about the potential risks associated with its use during this sensitive period.
Health experts generally classify uva ursi as contraindicated for breastfeeding mothers. This classification stems from the lack of safety data and the potential toxicity of the plant. The active compounds found in uva ursi, such as arbutin and hydroquinone, may pose risks, particularly since these substances can have adverse effects when ingested in significant amounts.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Given the uncertainties surrounding uva ursi, healthcare providers typically advise against its use while breastfeeding. The potential for harmful effects on both the mother and the infant cannot be overlooked. For nursing mothers considering herbal remedies, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially one with unclear safety profiles like uva ursi.
In summary, while uva ursi has been used traditionally for its medicinal properties, its safety during breastfeeding remains unverified. The prevailing advice is to avoid its use due to the potential risks and the lack of supporting research. Nursing mothers should prioritize their health and that of their infants by seeking guidance from healthcare providers regarding safe alternatives.

Who shouldn’t take uva ursi?

Reported side effects are generally mild and include nausea and vomiting, irritability, and insomnia. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and people with high blood pressure, should not take uva ursi. People who have Crohn disease, digestive problems, kidney or liver disease, or ulcers should not take uva ursi.

Why avoid ashwagandha while breastfeeding?

Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

What are the side effects of too much uva ursi?

It can cause nausea, vomiting, and can turn the urine greenish-brown. Uva ursi is possibly unsafe when taken in high doses or for a long time. It can cause liver damage and death when used in high doses.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Does uva ursi make you pee more?

History of Use. Uva Ursi has a strong association with women’s health because it contains the glycoside arbutin, which has antimicrobial properties and acts as a mild diuretic making it an infection fighter used in the treatment of urinary tract infections such as cystitis.

What is a natural cough suppressant while breastfeeding?

Drink hot lemonade with honey. Or make a mixture of one part lemon juice and two parts honey. Sip throughout the day. Drink fenugreek tea to relieve head and chest congestion and cough.

Can you drink mullein tea while breastfeeding?

There are not currently many known side effects or drug interactions for this herb. Rarely, some people may get a skin rash after handling mullein plants. More study is needed to determine if it is safe for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, but it is generally considered safe.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

  • Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
  • Aloe latex.
  • Ashwagandha.
  • Berberine/goldenseal.
  • Bilberry.
  • Black cohosh.
  • Butterbur.
  • Dong quai.

Are there any herbs you shouldn’t take while breastfeeding?

Herbs to avoid while breastfeeding

  • Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)
  • Sage (Salvia officinalis)
  • Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
  • Spearmint
  • Thyme
  • Yarrow

What teas should I avoid when 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.

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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