Is Rosehip Herbal Tea Safe for Pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a wonderful time for most women, but it's also a time when they must watch what they eat and drink more closely to avoid consuming something potentially harmful to their unborn baby. Rose hips are the small, round fruits produced by different species of roses, although only a few species are valuable for the rose hips they produce. Herbal tea blends may include rose hips, and while this herb is safe and nutritious for most, pregnant women should follow some safety guidelines. Ask your doctor before consuming anything you're not sure is safe for your baby.
What you eat may affect on your baby. (Image: idal/iStock/Getty Images)Rose Hip Properties
Rose hips are an abundant source of natural vitamin C, according to the “Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine,” and they contain vitamins E, K, A and B-complex. Other rose hip components and nutrients include magnesium, calcium, volatile oils, fatty acids, citric acid, pectin, tannin and carotene.
Potential Benefits
Rose hip tea may provide essential nutrients for you and your baby. According to the “PDR for Herbal Medicines,” it may be beneficial in preventing urinary tract infections, gout, scurvy, gallstones and may reduce water retention. These benefits, however, are anecdotal and clinical studies confirming them are lacking. Do not use rose hip tea to treat any medical condition, unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Considerations
The “Gale Encyclopedia,” advises pregnant women not to use rose hip oil during the first four weeks of pregnancy. This may be a good rule of thumb to use when considering drinking rose hip tea, as well.
The FDA does not regulate herbal teas, so there is no guarantee of their quality, safety or uniformity from one product to the next. BabyCenter.com lists rose hip tea as “probably safe” when consumed in moderation. Ask your doctor for advice, and do not exceed the amount of herbal tea your doctor feels is safe.
Herbal Tea
To prepare a tea from rose hips, pour 1 cup of boiling water over about 1 tsp. of dried rose hips and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink. Rose hip tea is pleasantly aromatic and may be sweetened with honey, if desired.
