Chamomile during pregnancy
 |
| Chamomile during pregnancy |
Is chamomile tea safe during pregnancy?
Used for centuries for its medicinal properties, chamomile has many benefits. But what about pregnant women?
Due to the adverse effects of many medications on pregnancy, expectant mothers sometimes seek alternative remedies. Herbal teas are one of them. Among the plants that can tempt a pregnant woman, chamomile. But is chamomile tea safe during pregnancy?
What exactly is chamomile?
A medicinal plant, chamomile has been used for centuries for its healing properties. It is part of the family of aromatic compounds such as thyme, rosemary and basil. It can be found in the wild, mainly in Europe, Asia and North Africa. It is generally used in the form of infusion or essential oils. Naturopaths and herbalists recommend it to treat certain pathologies, such as venous insufficiency, muscle and joint cramps, fatigue and premenstrual syndrome . It is considered a useful way to reduce stress, inflammation and improve the immune system.
What are the virtues of chamomile?
Outside of pregnancy, the benefits of chamomile are numerous, both for the body and the mind:
Soothing: “Chamomile is often appreciated for its calming and relaxing properties” .
Digestion: chamomile has a “digestive tonic” side, therefore useful in cases of “lazy” intestinal transit.
Sleep: thanks to its relaxing properties, it promotes falling asleep and helps fight insomnia.
Skin: Externally, chamomile can be used to soothe skin irritations, redness or itching.
Furthermore, chamomile also has antioxidant properties because it contains matricin, a molecule known for its calming effects on the central nervous system, as well as flavonoids, whose anti-inflammatory properties could help reduce muscle and joint pain frequently encountered during pregnancy.
Can you drink chamomile as a herbal tea, infusion or tea during pregnancy?
"Like many drinks during pregnancy, it's all a question of volume. But chamomile is not recommended because it is not without risks for pregnant women. However, before consuming chamomile: "It is important for expectant mothers to consult a health professional beforehand."
Roman chamomile or matricaria: what are the contraindications and dangers of chamomile for pregnant women?
"Chamomile is part of the Asteraceae family, a family of flowering plants. Two main concerns during pregnancy: the question of a potential allergen, since Asteraceae contain compounds such as sesquiterpene lactones, which can trigger allergic reactions in some sensitive people. Then, chamomile is known for its effectiveness in triggering periods, it is rather contraindicated for pregnant women. Matricaria chamomile (Matricario chamomilla) has emmenagogue effects (which stimulate blood flow to the uterus, editor's note), it is sometimes used to promote periods, so it should be avoided during pregnancy because there is a risk of premature contractions. So, as a precaution, avoid any plant from the Asteraceae family, especially the first 2 trimesters".
Indeed, a study confirmed the link between its regular consumption and the appearance of uterine contractions in the days that follow. In addition, still according to this study, it would seem that the action of chamomile would cause hormonal deregulation, particularly at the level of estrogens, which would partly explain the results observed. During pregnancy, its action could therefore generate contractions and contribute to softening the uterus too early, which increases the risk of premature delivery.
Chamomile and breastfeeding: will it have an effect on breast milk?
Currently, no studies have analyzed the effects of chamomile on breast milk.
As a precaution, consult a health professional before consuming chamomile while breastfeeding and even other herbal teas.
Which herbal teas or infusions should you not drink when you are pregnant?
"During pregnancy, it is better to avoid herbal teas that have a stimulating effect on the uterus: sage, fennel, dandelion... They could potentially induce uterine contractions or disrupt the pregnancy. Again, this is especially true if they are consumed frequently and in large quantities".
Furthermore, plants containing phytoestrogens are also not recommended (ginseng, liquorice, hops), plants rich in caffeine (yerba mate, guarana), plants known for their abortive action (raspberry, yarrow, mugwort), laxative plants that can cause spasms (senna, aloe vera) or plants containing alkaloids, very active substances that can poison the fetus (poppy, belladonna, colchicum, Madagascar periwinkle).
