Is it okay to drink mint while pregnant?

Properties of peppermint

The medicinal properties of peppermint have been known since ancient times, and the herb has been used in almost all regions of the world. In addition to essential oils – a pleasant and refreshing smell can be felt especially when rubbing the leaves – mint contains, among other things:

• tannins,

• flavonoids,

• organic acids,

• phytosterols,

• vitamins.

It is also valuable for its mineral salts, especially the oil that the leaves contain. In addition to its use in aromatherapy, it is also used in herbal medicine.

  Drinking mint during pregnancy

Many moms-to-be wonder if it’s okay to drink mint while pregnant. Waiting for a baby is a special time when favorite tastes and smells change. Some, especially the intense ones, can irritate. However, if mint does not cause the aforementioned effects or allergy symptoms, it can also be drunk in moderate amounts during pregnancy. Especially since mothers-to-be cannot take certain medications, and mint is a natural substitute. The condition is to consume it in moderation.

An infusion of mint is especially recommended for indigestion, as it stimulates the secretion of gastric juice and acts as a cholagogue. Pregnant women often complain of digestive problems and heartburn. Mint nullifies the bloating, nausea and vomiting so common in pregnancy, which occur especially in the first months. Regularly drinking the herbal drink also relieves symptoms of stress and calms down, which is especially important for mothers-to-be.

Like many other herbs, mint strengthens the body, especially in states of weakened immunity, so it is worth using during the period of increased flu incidence. It also protects against the common cold. However, it is important to remember that it is a medicinal plant, so the dosage should be consulted with the gynecologist in charge of the pregnancy. In pharmacies, many preparations containing mint are available without a prescription, but if you have not used this infusion before, it is worth reading the contraindications to its use.

Read also:

Chamomile in pregnancy-is it safe?

  Peppermint tea during pregnancy – contraindications

It can happen that mint causes unpleasant symptoms, such as abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, especially if drunk in excess. Allergy to this herb is one of the rare ones, but the body changes a lot while waiting for a baby, so even mild symptoms of hypersensitivity can occur at this time with greater intensity. It is important to react appropriately and, if alarming symptoms appear, consult a specialist. Large amounts of mint infusions can irritate the delicate gastric mucosa. In addition, mint should not be used by people suffering from reflux, as well as kidney stones or hiatal hernia.

Also find out:

Abdominal pain in pregnancy – causes, symptoms, treatment

  How to prepare an infusion of mint?

Both fresh mint leaves and dried ones have medicinal properties. If the herb grows in your garden, it is a good idea to harvest it after the summer season, leave it in a cool, darkened place and wait for the leaves to dry. Then we have a supply for the entire autumn-winter season. Of course, today you can buy mint in a pot regardless of the season.

There are many ready-made mint teas available on the market, or which are a composition of various herbs, although, of course, the most delicious is a drink made from the fresh plant. One to two glasses of the brew a day should not harm the mother-to-be, but it is worth consulting this dose with your pregnancy doctor. To make the drink, all you need is one teaspoon of dried mint or fresh leaves per glass of boiling water. Before the drink is ready to drink, leave it covered for about 5 minutes and strain it. The effect of mint is also supported by chamomile, which is also known for its healing properties. Using ready-made teas, just follow the directions on the package. For warmer days, on the other hand, lukewarm water with mint leaves and lemon juice will be ideal.

Also read:

Green tea in pregnancy

  What herbs can’t be drunk during pregnancy?

Moms-to-be should consume all herbs in moderation. On the other hand, there are those that can have a negative impact on both the woman and the child. Some of them can cause bleeding in the first trimesters of pregnancy and increase the risk of miscarriage, such as angelica, common rue and cordial. Others, like black claw and Canada bitterroot, stimulate the uterus, which can also end in premature labor. There are plants whose properties negatively affect the fetus. These may include: ginseng, mistletoe or autumn crocus. That’s why it’s a good idea to consult a specialist when taking herbs, just like medications.

Learn more:

What foods should be excluded from a pregnant woman’s diet?