Chamomile Tea When Breastfeeding: Safety, Benefits, and Precautions

As a natural and significant part of motherhood, breastfeeding requires caution to ensure that anything consumed is safe for both the mother and the child.

One beverage that many mothers turn to during this time is chamomile tea. Chamomile tea has long been known for its calming effects, but can you drink it when nursing?

This article will cover the safety of chamomile tea drinking during breastfeeding, the necessary precautions, and the tea’s health benefits.

Chamomile tea

Is It Safe To Consume Chamomile Tea When Breastfeeding?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration generally deems chamomile tea safe for consumption. However, the amount of data on the safety of chamomile for nursing mothers specifically is insufficient. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional before adding new foods or drinks to your diet while breastfeeding is a must. 

Possible Benefits of Chamomile Tea When Lactating

It is crucial to note that further studies are required to understand the potential advantages of chamomile tea for breastfeeding mothers. Still, these are some possible advantages based on anecdotal evidence and limited scientific studies.

Calming and Soothing Effects Can Potentially Help With Relaxation and Sleep

A trial has shown that chamomile tea could benefit postpartum women experiencing depression and poor sleep quality. The positive effects are believed to be due to apigenin, a flavonoid shown to promote sleep.

May Help With Digestion

Chamomile tea may relieve gastrointestinal discomfort for both mother and baby.

May Reduce the Severity of Anxiety and Depression

Research suggests that chamomile may potentially lessen the severity of anxiety and depression. However, additional research is required, as current studies have primarily concentrated on its application as aromatherapy or a supplement.

May Improve Heart Health

Chamomile tea has a high concentration of flavones. These antioxidant compounds can potentially decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels (1). These two factors are significant indicators of heart disease risk. Despite the need for further research to determine chamomile tea’s impact on heart health, including it in your diet may be beneficial.

May Improve Skin Health

Chamomile tea’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can improve skin health by reducing redness, protecting against environmental stressors, and potentially preventing premature aging. Chamomile tea’s soothing properties may also relieve skin issues such as eczema and acne. Remember that chamomile tea is not a substitute for medical treatment in cases of severe skin conditions.

May Prevent Bone Loss

There is evidence that chamomile may protect from bone loss and potentially osteoporosis. However, additional research is required to determine its effectiveness as a medical treatment.

May Benefit Blood Sugar Control

Chamomile tea’s anti-inflammatory properties may reduce blood sugar levels and shield pancreatic cells from damage. However, the evidence supporting these benefits is largely based on animal studies, so caution is advised. Further research is needed for a complete understanding, but the preliminary data shows promise.

May Alleviate Cold Symptoms

Chamomile tea has calming effects that can potentially relieve symptoms associated with the common cold, such as congestion and inflammation. However, chamomile tea is just a mild remedy for symptom relief and not a cure for cold or flu.

Precautions To Take While Consuming Chamomile Tea During Breastfeeding

Following these precautions is important when adding chamomile tea to your diet:

  • Remember that chamomile tea may cause side effects sometimes. These include nausea, dizziness, and abdominal discomfort.
  • Follow proper preparation instructions to avoid nausea and vomiting from highly concentrated tea.
  • Inform your doctor if you consume chamomile tea while on prescribed medication during lactation.
  • Avoid herbal teas advertised to boost milk production without proper guidance, as they may contain unsafe ingredients.
  • Discontinue use if allergy symptoms develop, especially if allergic to other plants in the daisy family.
  • Taking chamomile tea while on blood thinners, antihypertensives, or diabetes medications could lead to potential interactions. Avoid use postpartum if taking any of these medications.

Does Chamomile Tea Increase Breast Milk Supply?

While some anecdotal evidence suggests that chamomile tea may have galactagogue effects, the impact on breast milk production can vary significantly among breastfeeding mothers. Therefore, further studies are needed to establish a clear link between chamomile tea and increased milk supply. 

Frequent nursing or regular pumping is the most effective way to increase milk production. Breastfeeding mothers must prioritize proper nutrition and hydration and seek guidance from healthcare professionals if they have concerns about their milk supply.

Can Chamomile Tea Help With Colic In A Baby?

According to some studies, chamomile tea may help alleviate colic symptoms in babies. Chamomile has natural calming properties that can soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation. 

Before administering any herbal remedies to your baby, it’s crucial to consult with a pediatrician to avoid adverse effects or potential medication interactions. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the tea is prepared correctly and diluted for your baby’s age and weight.

How To Select Chamomile Tea?

The purchase of high-quality chamomile tea from a reliable brand and its proper storage can ensure the safe consumption of the tea. Prefer tea bags over loose tea to avoid contamination, and check the ingredient list for added ingredients. Keep the tea in a metal or glass air-tight container away from direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Those drinking chamomile tea may enjoy multiple benefits, including reduced inflammation and controlled blood sugar levels. It may also help with cold symptoms and colic in babies.

Nonetheless, it is crucial to exercise caution while drinking chamomile tea during breastfeeding, including discussing any medications you are on with your doctor or staying informed about potential adverse reactions.

Additionally, the evidence supporting the link between chamomile tea and improved breast milk production is insufficient. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers must prioritize proper nutrition and hydration.

Similar Posts