What Herbal Teas Are Safe During Pregnancy

Reason

Plain tea needs caffeine limits in pregnancy. Herbal teas need caution because some herbs may be unsafe, especially early on.

Safe Amount

No established safe limit for tea. NHS says no more than 200 mg caffeine per day in pregnancy; herbal tea is usually limited to 1 to 2 cups a day.

Effects

Pregnancy

Overall guidance depends on caffeine level and herbal ingredients. Some herbal teas need caution in pregnancy.

Mother

High tea intake may add caffeine and may reduce iron or folate absorption in some cases.

Baby

Too much caffeine may affect growth. Some herbal ingredients may be harmful, especially in early pregnancy.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester

Be extra careful with herbal teas. NHS notes some herbs can be potentially dangerous in weeks 1 to 12.

2nd Trimester

Limit caffeine and herbal tea intake. Avoid herbal blends with unknown ingredients.

3rd Trimester

Limit caffeine. Herbal teas can still contain active herbs and may be an issue with some blends.

Conditions & Warnings

• Choose caffeine-free or low-caffeine tea when possible
• Count all caffeine sources, including coffee, cola, and energy drinks
• For herbal tea, use only products with known ingredients
• Limit herbal tea to 1 to 2 cups a day unless your provider says otherwise

Alternatives

• Decaffeinated tea
• Water
• Milk
• Plain caffeine-free herbal tea with known ingredients, in limited amounts

References

• NHS
  https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/
• CDC
  https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/pregnant-women.html