Chamomile Tea for Pregnant Women Benefits Risks and Safety Tips

Chamomile Tea for Pregnant Women Benefits Pregnancy is one of the most transformative times in a woman’s life. As your body nurtures new life, your health choices matter more than ever. Many expectant mothers turn to natural remedies to ease discomfort, stay hydrated, or relax — and herbal teas often top that list. Among these, chamomile tea is known for its gentle aroma and calming effects. However, when you’re pregnant, even something as simple as herbal tea deserves a closer look. While chamomile tea is loved for its soothing qualities, it may not always be the safest option during pregnancy. Understanding its benefits and potential risks can help you make the best decision for your and your baby’s health

Understanding Herbal Teas During Pregnancy

Herbal teas are drinks made by steeping plant parts like roots, flowers, leaves, seeds, or bark in hot water. They differ from traditional teas such as black, green, or oolong tea, which come from the Camellia sinensis plant and contain caffeine. Because herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, many people assume they’re automatically safe — especially during pregnancy. However, “natural” doesn’t always mean “harmless

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Each herbal tea has its own unique chemical makeup, and while some herbs have soothing effects, others may influence hormones, stimulate the uterus, or interact with medications. That’s why it’s essential to know what herbs your tea contains. Labels can sometimes be vague, and quality control may vary among brands, especially those not strictly regulated

During pregnancy, your metabolism, circulation, and digestion change dramatically. Certain herbs that are safe at other times may affect these systems differently when you’re expecting. Because of this, most experts recommend drinking herbal teas only occasionally and consulting your doctor before adding them to your daily routine.

Why Many Pregnant Women Choose Herbal Teas

Chamomile Tea for Pregnant Women Benefits

Pregnancy can bring a variety of symptoms — morning sickness, bloating, heartburn, anxiety, and fatigue. Many women seek relief from these symptoms using natural remedies, including herbal teas. Some herbal blends are designed to support relaxation, aid digestion, or prepare the body for childbirth.

For example, ginger tea is commonly used to calm nausea, while peppermint tea can relieve bloating. Others, like raspberry leaf tea, are sometimes consumed in late pregnancy to help prepare the uterus for labor. Herbal teas can also provide a comforting alternative to caffeinated beverages like coffee or black tea, helping you stay hydrated throughout the day.

Still, even though these teas may offer some benefits, their safety during pregnancy depends heavily on the type of herb and how much you drink.

The Importance of Caution with Herbal Teas

The main concern with herbal teas during pregnancy is that many herbs can cross the placenta or be passed through breast milk. Since your baby’s organs are still developing, these substances can have unpredictable effects. Additionally, herbal teas are often sold as dietary supplements, meaning they aren’t regulated as strictly as prescription drugs or foods by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

This lack of regulation means that two brands of “chamomile tea,” for example, might not contain the same amount or purity of chamomile. Some may even contain traces of pesticides, heavy metals, or other herbs not listed on the label. These contaminants could pose potential risks to both mother and baby.

To stay safe, doctors generally advise pregnant women to limit herbal tea consumption to one or two cups a day, choose reputable brands, and avoid any teas with unclear ingredients or medicinal claims like “detox,” “fat-burning,” or “laxative.”

Which Herbal Teas Are Safer During Pregnancy

Although scientific research is limited, some herbal teas are considered relatively safe when consumed in moderation

Ginger Tea Widely used to ease morning sickness, ginger tea can help settle the stomach during the first trimester. It’s generally safe when limited to small amounts, such as one or two cups daily.

Peppermint Tea This tea can help with indigestion and bloating — common pregnancy complaints. While peppermint is considered safe, consuming it in very large quantities may trigger heartburn for some people.

Raspberry Leaf Tea Often recommended in the third trimester, raspberry leaf tea is believed to help tone the uterus and prepare it for labor. Though many midwives support its use, scientific evidence remains limited. It should be avoided in early pregnancy.

Rooibos Tea Rooibos is a naturally caffeine-free tea from South Africa rich in antioxidants. It’s gentle, hydrating, and generally regarded as safe during pregnancy.

However, teas containing green tea leaves, while beneficial in antioxidants, do contain caffeine and should be consumed in moderation. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends keeping total caffeine intake under 200 mg per day from all sources — including tea, coffee, chocolate, and soft drinks

Herbal Teas to Avoid During Pregnancy

Certain herbal teas are best avoided altogether while pregnant due to their potential to harm the baby or trigger premature contractions. These include teas made with blue cohosh, black cohosh, pennyroyal, comfrey, St. John’s wort, or licorice root. Such herbs may stimulate the uterus, alter hormone levels, or interact with medications.

Herbal teas marketed for weight loss, detoxing, or cleansing are especially concerning. They often contain strong laxatives or diuretics, which can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances — both dangerous during pregnancy

Avoid any teas with unverified claims or blends labeled as “medicinal” or “detoxifying.” Always consult your healthcare provider before trying any herbal drink that you’re unsure about

Chamomile Tea and Pregnancy: What You Should Know

Chamomile tea is one of the most popular herbal teas globally, valued for its mild, floral flavor and natural calming effects. It is made from the dried flowers of the Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile) or Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile) plants. Both varieties are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and relaxing properties.

Chamomile tea has been used for centuries to ease stress, promote sleep, and soothe digestive discomfort. Many pregnant women are drawn to chamomile tea for these same reasons. Yet, despite its long history, there isn’t enough reliable scientific data confirming its safety during pregnancy.

Health experts urge caution because some studies suggest chamomile may act as a uterine stimulant or interfere with blood circulation to the baby. Therefore, it’s best to approach chamomile tea with moderation and medical guidance

Potential Benefits of Chamomile Tea During Pregnancy

When used carefully and under a doctor’s advice, chamomile tea may offer a few gentle benefits:

Promotes Relaxation Chamomile is famous for its calming effects. A small cup before bed may help reduce stress and support restful sleep, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when relaxation is essential.

Improves Sleep Quality Chamomile is often included in bedtime tea blends because it may help improve sleep quality in individuals without insomnia. Many women find it helps them unwind at the end of the day.

Eases Anxiety Pregnancy can bring emotional ups and downs. Mild chamomile tea can have a soothing effect on the mind, helping reduce feelings of anxiety.

Aids Digestion Chamomile may help ease minor stomach discomfort, gas, or bloating, offering gentle relief from common digestive issues.

Hydration Support Drinking tea in general helps maintain hydration, which is particularly important during pregnancy to support healthy blood volume and fetal development

While these benefits are appealing, it’s crucial to weigh them against the possible risks — especially since scientific research on chamomile use during pregnancy remains limited

Risks of Drinking Chamomile Tea During Pregnancy

Despite being a natural herb, chamomile contains bioactive compounds that can affect your body in various ways. Some of these effects may not be suitable during pregnancy. Key risks include:

Uterine Stimulation Chamomile has been reported to stimulate the uterus, which may trigger early contractions or preterm labor if consumed in large quantities. Although these cases are rare, the potential risk warrants caution

Allergic Reactions Women allergic to plants in the daisy family — such as ragweed, daisies, or marigolds — may experience allergic symptoms from chamomile, including rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Blood-Thinning Effects Chamomile can interact with blood-thinning medications and increase bleeding risk. While most pregnant women don’t use such medications, it’s still important to be aware of this potential interaction.

Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight Some studies have linked regular chamomile tea consumption in the third trimester to an increased risk of early delivery or lower birth weights. These findings are not definitive but highlight the importance of moderation.

Contamination Risks Because herbal teas are not regulated as tightly as pharmaceuticals, they can sometimes be contaminated with other plant materials, bacteria, or heavy metals. Always choose commercially packaged chamomile teas from reputable brands

Is Caffeine-Free Chamomile Tea Safe?

Unlike black or green teas, chamomile tea is naturally caffeine-free. This makes it a tempting option for pregnant women who want to cut back on caffeine. However, the concern with chamomile isn’t caffeine — it’s the lack of conclusive research on its safety during pregnancy

Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties might be beneficial under normal circumstances but could pose risks during pregnancy for women with certain medical conditions. That’s why even caffeine-free chamomile tea should be consumed sparingly and only under your doctor’s supervision.

How Much Chamomile Tea Is Safe During Pregnancy?

If your healthcare provider gives the go-ahead, limit chamomile tea intake to one small cup occasionally, not daily. Drinking it once in a while to help with relaxation or mild sleep issues is likely safe for most women. Avoid drinking large or concentrated amounts, especially during the first and third trimesters

When choosing a product, opt for commercially packaged chamomile tea from trusted brands rather than homemade blends. This ensures that the ingredients are processed under regulated conditions, reducing the risk of contamination.

Other Herbal Teas That May Be Safer During Pregnancy

If you’re looking for alternatives to chamomile tea, these options are generally safer

Ginger Tea Great for morning sickness and nausea relief, ginger tea is one of the most recommended herbal teas for expectant mothers. Keep it light and fresh — one or two cups a day is enough.

Peppermint Tea This tea can ease bloating, gas, and nausea, offering comfort during digestion. However, avoid very strong brews, as they may cause heartburn.

Rooibos Tea A caffeine-free, antioxidant-rich tea from South Africa, rooibos supports hydration and heart health. It’s one of the safest herbal teas for pregnancy.

Lemon Balm Tea Known for its mood-lifting and calming properties, lemon balm tea may help reduce mild stress and promote relaxation without adverse effects.

Always check with your doctor before introducing any new herbal tea during pregnancy, even those considered safe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drink chamomile tea while pregnant?

Chamomile tea can be soothing, but it’s best to approach it with caution during pregnancy. While occasional small servings may be safe for some women, drinking it daily or in large amounts could pose risks such as uterine contractions or allergic reactions. Always consult your doctor before including chamomile tea in your pregnancy diet to make sure it’s right for you

Why should pregnant women limit herbal teas like chamomile?

Many herbal teas contain active plant compounds that can cross the placenta or affect hormone levels. Because these effects haven’t been fully studied during pregnancy, teas like chamomile should only be consumed under medical supervision. Limiting herbal teas helps reduce the risk of early contractions, contamination, or other unwanted side effects

What are the possible side effects of chamomile tea in pregnancy?

Some women may experience mild side effects such as drowsiness or allergic reactions, especially if they’re sensitive to plants in the daisy family. In rare cases, chamomile tea could stimulate the uterus, increasing the risk of early labor. It may also interact with blood-thinning medications, so it’s best to check with your healthcare provider first

Is caffeine-free chamomile tea safe during pregnancy?

Chamomile tea is naturally caffeine-free, but that doesn’t automatically make it safe. The concern isn’t caffeine — it’s the lack of conclusive research on how chamomile affects pregnancy. Some studies suggest it could influence blood circulation or cause contractions if consumed too often. Stick to occasional small cups only with your doctor’s approval

When is the safest time to drink chamomile tea while pregnant?

If your doctor allows it, the safest time to drink chamomile tea is usually in the second trimester, when the risk of miscarriage or early contractions is lower. Avoid drinking it frequently during the first trimester or late in the third trimester. Enjoying a small, mild cup occasionally may be fine for relaxation or better sleep

What are safer alternatives to chamomile tea during pregnancy?

If you’re looking for calming or digestive teas, safer options include ginger tea for nausea, peppermint tea for bloating, rooibos tea for antioxidants, and lemon balm tea for relaxation. These teas are caffeine-free and generally considered safer for pregnant women when consumed in moderation

Can chamomile tea help me sleep better while pregnant?

Chamomile is well-known for promoting sleep and relaxation, which can be helpful during pregnancy. However, since its safety isn’t fully proven, it’s best to use other gentle, pregnancy-safe methods for better sleep — such as warm milk, mindfulness, or herbal teas approved by your doctor. If you do drink chamomile tea, limit it to an occasional small cup before bed

Takeaway

Chamomile tea is soothing, fragrant, and comforting — but during pregnancy, it should be consumed with care. While small, occasional servings may not cause harm, drinking it regularly or in large amounts could increase the risk of uterine contractions, allergic reactions, or other complications. Because scientific evidence on its safety remains limited, most health professionals advise pregnant women to avoid or strictly limit chamomile tea unless cleared by their doctor.

If you enjoy a warm, relaxing drink, consider safer alternatives such as ginger, peppermint, rooibos, or lemon balm tea. These options offer comfort, hydration, and mild health benefits without the same level of risk.

Pregnancy is a precious time that requires mindful choices. Every sip matters, and understanding what you drink can make a big difference in keeping both you and your baby healthy. So if you’re reaching for chamomile tea, do so wisely — with your doctor’s approval and in moderation — ensuring your relaxation comes with peace of mind

Muhammad Khalid

Health & Nutrition Writer

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Muhammad Khalid is a passionate health & nutrition writer dedicated to making medical and wellness topics easy to understand. He creates research-backed, reader-friendly articles on nutrition, fitness, mental health, and overall well-being. His mission is to provide accurate, practical, and trustworthy content that helps readers make informed lifestyle choices.

Edited By: HealioUSA Editorial Team

Reviewed By:: Medically Fact-Checked Using Evidence from NIH, Mayo Clinic, and Other Trusted Health Institutions Sources

Last Updated: October 13 2025