Can I Drink Lemongrass Tea While Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

Usually yes, in small amounts. Lemongrass tea in the amounts people drink as a food, about a cup or two a day, is generally considered low risk in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, but human research is limited. Concentrated extracts, supplements, and essential oils are a different matter, so check with your provider before using those.

Can I drink lemongrass tea while pregnant?

Usually yes in small amounts. Lemongrass tea in food-sized amounts, around a cup or two a day, is generally considered low risk in pregnancy, but there are few human studies. Stronger extracts, supplements, and essential oils are a different matter, so ask your provider before using them.

Lemongrass is a common cooking herb across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean, and tea made from the leaves is naturally caffeine free. The caution comes from herbal references noting that large, medicinal amounts have not been studied well in pregnancy. If you are in your first trimester or have a history of pregnancy loss, it is reasonable to ask your provider first. Our guide on whether pregnancy teas are safe explains how to read any herbal label.

Is lemongrass tea safe while breastfeeding?

Moderate amounts are generally considered fine while breastfeeding. The NIH LactMed database notes that data on lemongrass during nursing is limited, so guidance leans on its long history as a food and tea. Keep to a cup or two, avoid concentrated supplements, and watch your baby for fussiness.

Every baby is different. If you introduce any new herb and notice gassiness, rash, or changes in feeding, pause it and tell your pediatrician. For a wider look at what to sip, see our guide to nursing teas and which to skip.

Does lemongrass tea affect milk supply?

There is no solid evidence that lemongrass tea raises or lowers milk supply. Some traditions use it for nursing mothers, but human studies are lacking. If supply worries you, a lactation consultant can look at latch, feeding frequency, and hydration, which matter far more than any single tea.

Peppermint and sage are the herbs more often discussed for lowering supply, which we cover in does peppermint tea lower milk supply. If you want a gentler fenugreek-free route, read what to drink instead of fenugreek lactation tea.

What are gentle herbal tea options if I want something else?

Ginger and lemon-based blends are a popular caffeine free choice in pregnancy, and fruit blends suit postpartum sipping. Many parents rely on them as a soothing daily ritual. Choose organic, clearly labeled ingredients so you know exactly what is in your cup.

A gentle option is our No to Morning Sickness Lemon Ginger Tea, a USDA Organic blend traditionally valued for supporting a settled stomach. After the baby arrives, the Mummy Magic Postpartum Fruit Tea is a caffeine free fruit blend many new moms enjoy. See also how many cups of ginger tea are okay, plus our morning sickness guide and wellness guide.

When should I talk to a professional about herbal tea?

Talk to your obstetrician, midwife, or pediatrician before using any herbal product regularly, especially supplements or essential oils. Call promptly for cramping, bleeding, rash, or any reaction after trying something new. Your provider can tailor advice to your health history and medications.

Sources worth reading: ACOG guidance on herbs and supplements in pregnancy, the NIH LactMed database on breastfeeding and herbs, and the Mayo Clinic's pregnancy nutrition guidance.

This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice. Secrets of Tea products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.