Herbal teas during pregnancy: An Ayurveda guided list

Top view of a tea cup placed at the center of an horizontal frame. The cup is surrounded by several kinds of dried herbs for preparing infusion like chamomile, black tea, rooibos tea and green tea. Star anise, cinnamon sticks, dried oranges and a honey jar complete the composition. Predominant color is yellow, Low key DSLR photo taken with Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4L

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian holistic system of medicine that emphasizes a balance of the mind, body, and spirit for optimal health and wellness. Ayurveda considers the unique needs of each individual and provides guidelines for living a healthy and fulfilling life.

When it comes to pregnancy, Ayurveda places great emphasis on supporting the health of the mother and the developing fetus through natural and gentle means. Herbal teas are a popular remedy in Ayurveda for a variety of health concerns, and there are many herbs that are safe and beneficial for pregnant women.

According to Ayurvedic philosophy, during pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes and requires extra nourishment and support. Herbal teas are a natural way to provide these nutrients and support the body’s natural processes.

Ayurveda also emphasizes the importance of balancing the doshas, which are the fundamental energies that govern the body and mind. Each person has a unique balance of doshas, and during pregnancy, these can become imbalanced, leading to various symptoms and health concerns. Certain herbal teas can help to balance the doshas and promote overall well-being during pregnancy.

The importance of staying hydrated during pregnancy

Staying hydrated during pregnancy is crucial for both the mother and the developing fetus. Water is essential for many important bodily functions, including maintaining blood volume, regulating body temperature, and transporting nutrients and oxygen to the fetus.

During pregnancy, the body’s water requirements increase due to an increase in blood volume, amniotic fluid, and fetal circulation. Dehydration during pregnancy can lead to several adverse effects, such as preterm labor, low amniotic fluid levels, and impaired fetal growth.

Several studies have shown the importance of adequate hydration during pregnancy. A study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology found that women who had low amniotic fluid levels were more likely to be dehydrated and had lower total water intake compared to women with normal amniotic fluid levels. Another study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that inadequate water intake during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth.

Moreover, dehydration during pregnancy can also lead to maternal complications such as constipation, hemorrhoids, and urinary tract infections.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women consume at least eight to ten 8-ounce glasses of water per day. However, the exact amount of water needed may vary based on individual factors such as activity level, climate, and other health conditions.

Benefits of drinking herbal teas during pregnancy

There are several benefits of drinking herbal teas during pregnancy, and many of these benefits are supported by scientific evidence. Here are some of the potential benefits of drinking herbal teas during pregnancy:

  1. Relieving nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common during pregnancy, and certain herbal teas like ginger and peppermint have been shown to be effective in reducing these symptoms. A study published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology found that ginger supplements significantly reduced nausea and vomiting in pregnant women.
  2. Reducing stress and anxiety: Pregnancy can be a stressful time, and certain herbal teas like chamomile and lemon balm have calming properties that can help to reduce stress and anxiety. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that chamomile tea significantly reduced anxiety in pregnant women.
  3. Boosting immunity: During pregnancy, the immune system undergoes changes, and certain herbal teas like echinacea and elderberry have immune-boosting properties that can help to support overall health. A study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements found that echinacea supplementation improved immune function in pregnant women.
  4. Promoting digestion: Digestive issues like constipation and bloating are common during pregnancy, and certain herbal teas like fennel and dandelion can help to promote digestion and relieve these symptoms. A study published in the Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health found that fennel tea improved digestion and reduced constipation in pregnant women.
  5. Providing nutrients: Many herbal teas contain important nutrients like vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial during pregnancy. For example, nettle tea is rich in iron, which is important for preventing anemia during pregnancy.

Precautions to take when drinking herbal teas during pregnancy

While herbal teas can be a natural and beneficial way to support health during pregnancy, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some precautions to take when drinking herbal teas during pregnancy:

  1. Consult with a healthcare provider: Before consuming any herbal teas during pregnancy, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that they are safe and appropriate for individual needs. Some herbs can be harmful during pregnancy and may cause adverse effects on the developing fetus.
  2. Avoid certain herbs: Certain herbs, such as black cohosh, pennyroyal, and yarrow, are known to be unsafe during pregnancy and should be avoided. A study published in the Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health found that women who used herbal preparations containing potentially harmful herbs during pregnancy were more likely to have adverse pregnancy outcomes.
  3. Limit caffeine intake: Some herbal teas, such as black tea and green tea, contain caffeine, which should be limited during pregnancy. High caffeine intake during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and low birth weight. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women limit their caffeine intake to less than 200 milligrams per day.
  4. Be aware of potential interactions: Herbal teas can interact with certain medications and supplements, and pregnant women should be aware of potential interactions before consuming herbal teas. For example, St. John’s wort can interact with certain antidepressant medications and may increase the risk of birth defects.
  5. Choose organic and safe sources: When consuming herbal teas during pregnancy, it is important to choose organic and safe sources to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals and contaminants.

Safe herbal teas for pregnant women according to Ayurveda

Ayurveda recommends several herbs that are safe for pregnant women to consume as herbal teas. These herbs can help support overall health and well-being during pregnancy. However, it is crucial to remember that though they are generally considered safe for pregnant women when consumed in moderation, but may be harmful if taken in excessive quantities. So, MODERATION IS THE KEY !!

Here are some of the safe and beneficial herbs for pregnant women:

Ginger tea:

Ginger is a common Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries to alleviate nausea and vomiting. A review of several studies found that ginger can be an effective treatment for morning sickness in pregnant women.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 inch fresh ginger root, peeled and sliced
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1-2 teaspoons of honey (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a small pot, bring the water to a boil.
  2. Add the sliced ginger to the boiling water.
  3. Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup and add honey, if desired.

Turmeric tea:

Turmeric is a popular Ayurvedic herb that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A study found that turmeric can help reduce oxidative stress in pregnant women with gestational diabetes, which can help improve pregnancy outcomes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups of water
  • Honey or lemon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Add the water to a small pot and bring it to a boil.
  2. Add the turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper to the water and stir.
  3. Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove any bits of spice and pour it into a mug.
  5. Add honey or lemon if desired.

Note: You can also use fresh turmeric root instead of ground turmeric. Simply peel and grate a small amount of the root and add it to the boiling water. Let it simmer for a few minutes before straining and serving.

Peppermint tea:

Peppermint is an Ayurvedic herb that can help relieve digestive issues like bloating and constipation. A study found that peppermint can help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in pregnant women. Peppermint is is also traditionally used for its anti-nausea properties. A study published in the Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health found that peppermint oil reduced nausea and vomiting in pregnant women when inhaled or applied topically.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 peppermint tea bags (or 1-2 teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves)
  • 2 cups of water
  • Honey or lemon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot or kettle.
  2. Add 1-2 peppermint tea bags or 1-2 teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves to the boiling water.
  3. Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Remove the tea bags or strain the tea to remove the peppermint leaves.
  5. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.

Fennel tea:

Fennel is an Ayurvedic herb that can help relieve digestive issues and support healthy lactation. A study found that fennel can help reduce colic in breastfed infants, which can improve breastfeeding success and satisfaction.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 teaspoons of fennel seeds
  • 2 cups of water
  • Honey or lemon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot or kettle.
  2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of fennel seeds to the boiling water.
  3. Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove the fennel seeds.
  5. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.

Chamomile tea:

Chamomile is a calming herb that is often used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. While there are no studies on chamomile tea and morning sickness, some women may find it helpful due to its calming effects.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 chamomile tea bags (or 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers)
  • 2 cups of water
  • Honey or lemon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot or kettle.
  2. Add 1-2 chamomile tea bags or 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to the boiling water.
  3. Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Remove the tea bags or strain the tea to remove the chamomile flowers.
  5. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.

Cinnamon tea

Cinnamon tea is believed to have many health benefits, including lowering blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation, and improving digestion. It can also provide a warm and comforting taste.

To make cinnamon tea, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 cinnamon sticks (or 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon)
  • 2 cups of water
  • Honey or lemon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot or kettle.
  2. Add 1-2 cinnamon sticks or 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to the boiling water.
  3. Let the tea steep for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Remove the cinnamon sticks or strain the tea to remove the ground cinnamon.
  5. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.

When preparing herbal teas for pregnant women, it is important to use safe and high-quality herbs and to follow proper preparation methods. Pregnant women should avoid using sweeteners like sugar, as they can contribute to obesity leading to gestational diabetes. Instead, try using a small amount of honey or lemon juice to sweeten the tea.

Please remember that though honey is a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties and can be used as a natural remedy for sore throat, cough, and other respiratory issues during pregnancy, raw or unpasteurized honey should be avoided during pregnancy as it may contain harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. Additionally, honey should be consumed in moderation during pregnancy as it is high in sugar and calories.

Conclusion

It is important to note that pregnant women should always consult with their healthcare provider and an Ayurvedic practitioner before taking any herbs or supplements, including herbal teas. Additionally, pregnant women should limit their consumption of herbal teas to one or two cups per day to ensure safety and appropriateness for individual needs.