So, you’re pregnant - yay! But while you’re creating that precious little bub of yours, it’s important to stay away from things that can cause you or your kiddo harm, especially when it comes to food and beverages.
In the case of Hibiscus tea during pregnancy, you may be wondering whether it’s safe or not. After all, it’s packed with countless benefits for your mind and body!
Here’s what you need to know about drinking Hibiscus tea during pregnancy.
Is Hibiscus tea safe during pregnancy?
Drinking hibiscus tea during pregnancy is not recommended by most medical experts. There’s a reason why medical professionals suggest you skip out on certain things if you're pregnant. As conducting studies on women who have a bun in the oven isn’t exactly ethical or encouraged, the general advice is to err on the side of caution when consuming certain foods and beverages. Meaning - when in doubt, it’s best to leave it out.
Why is Hibiscus tea bad during pregnancy?
While we wouldn’t go throwing around the term “bad” to describe Hibiscus tea, the truth is that there isn’t enough evidence to determine whether or not it’s safe during pregnancy. That being said, there have been some studies done on animals which have produced findings that suggest it’s best to skip out on Hibiscus if pregnant or nursing. Here’s why:
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Puberty issues
A 2016 study examined the effect of Hibiscus extract on pregnant rats. Researchers found that the extract had the ability to cause delayed puberty in offspring while also increasing the risk of obesity.
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Miscarriage
While Hibiscus helps regulate hormones for those struggling with irregular periods, tempering with your hormones isn’t exactly welcomed while pregnant as it can lead to bleeding and miscarriage. As Hibiscus stimulates menstruation, it’s recommended to wait for that perfect cuppa until after you’ve had your little one.
Play it safe with our herbal pregnancy-safe teas. Click here to view the collection.
Hibiscus tea benefits (when you're not pregnant)
Naturally found in warm, tropical climates, the Hibiscus plant has a wide range of benefits beyond looking beautiful. Used to create natural medicine, paper and even rope, Hibiscus is as practical as it is restorative.
Rich in antioxidants, Hibiscus helps reduce blood pressure, fights bacteria and aids in weight loss. It can also help improve the overall health of your liver. Despite not being recommended for pregnancy, Hibiscus tea makes for a restorative beverage both when you’re trying to conceive and postpartum.
How to make Hibiscus tea
Depending on the blend you have, it’s recommended to put the allotted amount of teaspoons in a strainer for a cup (250ml) of tea. If you’re brewing a pot of tea (400ml), we suggest upping the amount to 3-4 teaspoons.
Heat your water until it boils (100 degrees). Pour the boiling water over your Hibiscus tea blend, covering the leaves completely. This allows you to soak up all the goodness and health benefits Hibiscus provides.
Next, chill out, take a break and let your tea leaves infuse for at least 4 minutes. Finally, remove the strainer and enjoy your Hibiscus tea blend.
Hibiscus tea during pregnancy
Knowledge is power. And when you’re pregnant, it’s always important to make informed choices that help you have a healthy pregnancy. And while we love, love, love everything that Hibiscus tea has to offer, we recommend holding off on enjoying all of its goodness until after you’ve given birth or finished nursing. It’s only temporary! Instead, you can enjoy these herbal pregnancy-safe teas while your little bun is baking.