Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is generally considered safe in moderation during pregnancy — one or two cups a day is fine. Avoid drinking large amounts daily.
Chamomile tea is one of the most popular herbal teas and is widely drunk during pregnancy for its calming, sleep-promoting properties. In moderate amounts — one to two cups per day — it is generally considered safe by the NHS and most health authorities. The caution around chamomile stems from the fact that in very large quantities, some compounds in chamomile (particularly apigenin) may theoretically stimulate the uterus or affect blood flow to the placenta. These risks have not been demonstrated at normal tea-drinking amounts in human studies, but they are a reason not to drink chamomile excessively or in concentrated supplement form. A cup of chamomile tea in the evening to help with sleep and anxiety is a long-standing and widely accepted practice during pregnancy. It is naturally caffeine-free. The main group for whom chamomile carries specific concern is those with ragweed allergies, as chamomile belongs to the same plant family and can occasionally trigger a reaction.
What to be aware of
- Limit chamomile to one to two cups per day — occasional use is fine, high daily intake is not recommended.
- Avoid chamomile in supplement, tincture, or concentrated extract form during pregnancy.
- If you have a ragweed allergy, be aware that chamomile is from the same plant family and may cause a reaction.
- Chamomile is caffeine-free and counts toward overall fluid intake.
NHS guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/