Teas That May Increase the Risk of Miscarriage - What You Should Know About Herbal Teas During Pregnancy
- Richard Lorenzo
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Herbal teas are often viewed as gentle, natural, and safe. Many patients use them for relaxation, nausea, sleep, or general wellness during pregnancy. Although several herbal teas are safe in moderate amounts, others may increase the risk of miscarriage or pregnancy complications. As healthcare providers, we always remind patients that natural products can still have powerful biologic effects, and some herbs have uterotonic or hormonal properties that can affect early pregnancy.
At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we routinely review supplement and herbal use with our pregnant patients. Below is a clear guide to the teas and herbs that should be avoided during pregnancy, along with explanations to help patients make safe choices.
Why Certain Teas Can Be Unsafe in Pregnancy
Herbs can affect the uterus, hormones, liver function, or blood pressure. Some herbs contain compounds that stimulate uterine contractions, increase prostaglandin activity, or act on the nervous system. Others may be associated with fetal toxicity in animal or human case reports. The risk increases when teas are consumed in large amounts or when patients use concentrated extracts, tinctures, or supplements.
Because herbal products are not regulated the same way as medications, strength and purity can vary widely. This means that a tea labeled as mild or natural may contain enough active compounds to cause unwanted effects during pregnancy.
Teas and Herbs That May Increase the Risk of Miscarriage
Parsley Tea
Parsley contains apiol and myristicin, compounds known to stimulate the uterus in high doses. While small amounts in food are considered safe, parsley tea or concentrated preparations should be avoided in pregnancy.
Sage Tea
Sage tea contains thujone, a compound that may stimulate uterine activity and affect the nervous system. Culinary sage used in cooking is safe, but sage tea and concentrated extracts are not recommended.
Pennyroyal Tea
Pennyroyal is one of the most dangerous herbal teas for pregnancy. It contains pulegone, a substance linked to liver failure, multiorgan toxicity, and fetal harm. Even small amounts can be unsafe. Patients should avoid pennyroyal in all forms during pregnancy.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh has estrogenic and uterotonic effects. While it is sometimes used for menopause, it may cause uterine contractions in pregnancy. It should not be used until term and only under medical guidance.
Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh is significantly more potent than black cohosh. It has been linked to fetal heart complications and vascular problems. This herb is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Dong Quai
Dong quai has long been used in traditional medicine, but in pregnancy, it may increase uterine activity and bleeding risk. It is safest to avoid this herb entirely.
Licorice Root
Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which can raise blood pressure and increase prostaglandin activity. High intake has been associated with miscarriage and preterm birth. Occasional small amounts may be safe, but licorice tea should be avoided.
Aloe Vera Tea
Aloe latex found in some aloe preparations may cause uterine contractions. While topical aloe is generally safe, oral aloe products or teas are not recommended during pregnancy.
Ginseng
Some forms of ginseng, particularly Panax ginseng, have been linked to fetal abnormalities in animal studies. Until more is known, ginseng tea is best avoided in early pregnancy.
Mistletoe Tea
Mistletoe contains compounds that may stimulate the uterus. It also has cardiac glycoside activity that can pose risks to both the patient and fetus.
Motherwort
Motherwort is a strong uterine stimulant. It is traditionally used to trigger menstrual flow, so it should not be used during pregnancy at any stage.
St. John’s Wort
This herb may increase uterine tone and has multiple drug interactions. Patients should avoid St. John’s Wort while pregnant unless prescribed for a specific medical condition.
Teas That Are Generally Safe in Pregnancy
Many patients can safely enjoy herbal teas in moderation. These include ginger tea for nausea, peppermint tea for digestive comfort, and lemon balm for mild relaxation. Green and black teas are typically safe within daily caffeine limits. Raspberry leaf tea may be used later in pregnancy to support labor preparation, but it is not recommended in the first trimester.
As always, counseling should focus on moderation and reviewing ingredients carefully.
Practical Tips for Safe Tea Use in Pregnancy
Avoid herbal blends unless each ingredient is known to be safe.
Choose products from reputable brands to reduce the risk of contamination.
Limit caffeine intake from black or green tea to recommended daily levels.
Discuss all herbal products with your provider, especially early in pregnancy.
Avoid tinctures and concentrated extracts unless prescribed by a clinician.
When to Call Your Provider
Patients should contact their provider if they accidentally drink a potentially unsafe tea, experience cramping, bleeding, dizziness, or nausea after consuming an herbal product, or have questions about specific ingredients. Guidance is always individualized based on each patient's history and stage of pregnancy.
At Complete Healthcare, we support patients in making informed and safe decisions throughout their pregnancy. A simple discussion about supplements and herbal teas can prevent avoidable complications and promote a healthier pregnancy experience.
Complete Healthcare - Obstetrics and Gynecology
509-392-6700