Which Teas to drink in pregnancy

This is a great question, which I received via Teapigs, the Tea company I do consultancy for and as there can be a lot of confusion over which to eat or drink when you're pregnant, I thought I'd share it with you.

"Was just wondering if you could recommend to me which of your teas are safe for pregnancy? I'm a big tea fan, but there are so many herbs you aren't allowed during pregnancy! I'm drinking super fruits at the moment, but any other ideas would be much appreciated!"

Herbal remedies are usually considered to be natural alternatives to medicines and drugs - but there are some which are unsafe for pregnancy so this is a very good question. Some herbs contain chemicals as such which can get into the placenta and thus into your baby, which may cause complications.

Your safest Teapigs or Herbal Tea options are;

• Camomile - this will help you sleep too. (dried or fresh herb is safe in moderation but avoid camomile oil)

• Chai Tea (contains cinnamon but quite safe as a culinary herb; avoid the essential oil completely.)
• Spiced Winter Red Tea - will help boost your immune system
• Summer Flowers
• Super Fruit
• Pure Lemongrass
• Peppermint (low doses of the dried herb can be used but avoid the oil).

With the black teas, limit to two cups a day, as excess can lead to palpitations and increased heart rate.

If you are using herbs to treat an ailment or symptoms, I'd recommend you
see a herbalist.