5 Dangerous Infusions that You Should Avoid During Pregnancy

We're going to tell you which dangerous infusions you should avoid during pregnancy in order not to put the health of the fetus at risk.

Written and verified by the nutritionist Saúl Sánchez Arias.

Last update: 18 May, 2023

During pregnancy, it’s crucial to be careful with the consumption of certain infusions and herbs. This is because if they’re introduced into the diet, they could become abortive, so it’s better to restrict their intake. Therefore, we’re going to talk to you about a series of dangerous infusions during pregnancy.

It should be noted that most of the drinks we’re going to talk about are beneficial to health under normal conditions. But, although their inclusion in the diet of a healthy adult is positive. However, if you’re pregnant or looking to be, their inclusion should be avoided.

Dangerous infusions during pregnancy

Below, we’re going to tell you which are the dangerous infusions that you should avoid during pregnancy. their consumption could generate abortive effects or problems in the development of the fetus.

1. Pennyroyal mint

Pennyroyal mint is an infusion that’s commonly used to generate a state of relaxation or well-being. However, it’s not suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it contains substances that are potentially abortifacient and toxic to the fetus. In fact, it can damage the liver, kidneys, and brain of the developing child.

2. Licorice

Licorice tea is capable of affecting blood pressure by increasing it. Influencing this physiological parameter during the gestation period could be dangerous for the fetus and stimulate premature delivery. At the same time, it can also reduce the production of breast milk, so it’s not a good idea to include it in the diet while breastfeeding either.

3. Aniseed

Anise, sage, or rhubarb can provoke contractions in the uterus, which can cause premature labor or even miscarriage. In fact, if these infusions are taken during pregnancy, it’s common for bleeding to occur. They’re considered very unsafe and the recommendation is to avoid them.

4. Turmeric infusion

Turmeric is one of the most beneficial culinary spices that can be included in the diet. It has anti-inflammatory effects that have been proven by science, so it helps in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. However, it’s strongly discouraged during pregnancy.

Its consumption in large quantities can generate abortive or neurotoxic effects. However, this doesn’t mean that it can’t be consumed in any context. According to a study published in the journal Nutrients, its active ingredient in small doses can be positive during pregnancy. However, its consumption in the form of an infusion isn’t safe. In any case, check with your doctor.

5. Tea

Tea is one of the most widely consumed herbal infusions in the world. Although its intake isn’t totally forbidden during pregnancy, it’s best to limit its inclusion in the diet. First of all, it should be noted that it contains caffeine, an alkaloid that has been shown to cause side effects during the gestation period.

At the same time, excessive consumption of the beverage can induce premature labor or miscarriage. It can even hinder the absorption of iron and folic acid, which are essential nutrients to ensure the correct development of the fetus. It’s best to avoid the intake of tea, although you can safely drink a maximum of two cups a day.

Beware of dangerous infusions during pregnancy

As you’ve seen, there are a number of infusions that are dangerous in pregnancy, so it’s best to avoid consuming them during pregnancy. Otherwise, they could generate abortive effects or problems in the proper development of the fetus.

It’s important to remember that at this time, it’s crucial to practice the utmost care when it comes to what you eat and drink. Not only should certain supplements be included in the diet, such as folic acid, but you’ll also need to restrict the presence of some foods and drinks that can be dangerous.

On the other hand, it’s advisable to promote healthy lifestyle habits. For example, it’s very positive to exercise, despite the limitations of this period. Likewise, it’s essential to sleep adequately every night, at least 7 hours of good quality sleep. To achieve this, it’s essential to have a set schedule and to stick to it.