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Lemon Balm Tea and Pregnancy: What Expecting Mothers Should Know

by Vorst Canada
Lemon Balm Tea and Pregnancy: What Expecting Mothers Should Know

 

People generally say good things about lemon balm tea because it is peaceful and mild, especially when you are stressed out or can't sleep. But when you're pregnant, even a cup of herbal tea that makes you feel better makes you wonder if it's safe. The answer isn't always clear-cut, like with many herbs.

Disclaimer: This content is intended solely for informational and educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Table of Contents

  • What Is Lemon Balm?
  • Potential Benefits of Lemon Balm Tea During Pregnancy
  • Is Lemon Balm Safe During Pregnancy?
  • How to Drink Lemon Balm Tea Safely While Pregnant
  • When to Avoid Lemon Balm Tea
  • Conclusion: A Gentle Herb With Considerations
  • References and Resources

What Is Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a mint family herb that smells like lemons. People often use it to help them relax and digest food. For hundreds of years, people have made tea from it to help with anxiety, indigestion, and sleep. Its leaves have a lot of natural chemicals in them, like rosmarinic acid, which are recognized to be antioxidants and moderate sedatives.

People typically think of lemon balm as a mild plant, but it is still a medical herb. This makes it more important to understand how it works during pregnancy.

Potential Benefits of Lemon Balm Tea During Pregnancy

Lemon balm is great for some of the most common pregnancy problems, like stress, nausea, trouble sleeping, and stomach problems. This is how it might help:

1. Soothing Nausea and Digestive Upset

Early pregnancy is often marked by mild nausea. Lemon balm may help relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines and ease bloating or cramping since it has antispasmodic and carminative qualities.

2. Reducing Anxiety and Restlessness

Pregnant women often have stronger emotions, such as anxiousness. Researchers have looked into lemon balm's capacity to lower cortisol levels and make people feel calmer. A nice cup of tea before bed will help you relax.

3. Promoting Sleep

Pregnancy can make it hard to get a good night's sleep because of all the hormonal and physical changes. Lemon balm has mild sedative properties that may help you sleep better and more deeply. This is especially true when used with other relaxing herbs like chamomile, but you should also check to see if these herbs are safe to use during pregnancy.

Is Lemon Balm Safe During Pregnancy?

The good news is that most people think lemon balm is safe to take in little amounts while pregnant. That being said, it's always advisable to take it under the care of a doctor, especially if you're going to be taking it often or in large amounts.

The American Pregnancy Association says that lemon balm is one of the "likely safe" plants to eat or drink in tea during pregnancy. Concentrated extracts or supplements, on the other hand, may be a different story.

Safety Summary:

  • Tea Form (1–2 cups per day): Likely safe for most pregnant individuals

  • Extracts/Tinctures: Use with caution; discuss with your healthcare provider

  • Essential Oil: Not recommended during pregnancy (too potent)

How to Drink Lemon Balm Tea Safely While Pregnant

If you want to drink lemon balm tea while you're pregnant, these are some tips to keep you safe.

Choose Organic, Single-Herb Teas

Unless your doctor says otherwise, go for pure lemon balm tea without any other herbs. Some commercial blends may have components that aren't safe to use while pregnant.

Stick to Moderate Intake

Most sources say that 1–2 cups a day is a safe, moderate amount. No matter how mild, drinking too much herbal tea can put too many active compounds in your body, which is especially dangerous during pregnancy when your body is already in a sensitive state.

Observe Your Body's Response

If you feel more sleepy, have stomach problems, or notice any other changes after drinking lemon balm tea, stop using it and talk to your doctor.

When to Avoid Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm has some good things about it, but it's not for everyone. There are times during pregnancy when it's best to avoid or cut back on even mild herbs like this one.

You Have Hypothyroidism

Lemon balm may affect thyroid hormone levels or thyroid treatments, especially in excessive amounts. If you are on treatment for hypothyroidism, talk to your doctor before you take lemon balm.

You're in the First Trimester and at Risk

Some doctors say that pregnant women should avoid any non-essential herbs until after the first trimester to lower the chance of any undiscovered problems with fetal development.

You're on Specific Medications

Lemon balm could have an effect on sedatives, thyroid meds, or antiviral medications. Before you drink herbal tea, make sure you obtain the okay from your doctor if you use any regular prescription medications, especially if you are pregnant.

Conclusion: A Gentle Herb With Considerations

Lemon balm tea is a natural cure that can help you relax and sleep better when you're pregnant. But like with any herbal products during this delicate time, less is more.

Most healthy pregnant women can safely drink 1 to 2 cups of lemon balm tea every day. But if you have thyroid problems, are on medication, or are pregnant, you should talk to your doctor first.

You can enjoy the peaceful ritual of lemon balm tea while keeping your health and your baby's growth in mind.

References

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