Drinking Jasmine Tea When Pregnant – Is It Safe?

Many people find that the subtle scent and comforting warmth of jasmine tea are perfect for relaxing, but if you’re pregnant, you might wonder whether this aromatic beverage is safe for you and your baby. While herbal teas are often considered mild and beneficial, jasmine tea contains caffeine and certain natural ingredients that may pose unexpected risks during pregnancy. Caffeine, even in moderate amounts, can affect sleep and heart rate, while other ingredients can affect hormone levels or induce contractions. So, before you pour yourself a cup, let’s see what you need to know about drinking jasmine tea in pregnancy.

What Is Jasmine Tea?

Originally from China, jasmine tea is a fragrant, aromatic tea made by infusing green or black tea leaves with the scent of jasmine flowers. It is most commonly made with green tea as its base, though varieties with black or white tea bases also exist. The tea is popular not just for its taste but also for its relaxing aroma, making it a favourite for people looking to unwind.

Nutritional Profile of Jasmine Tea

Before knowing the health benefits of jasmine tea, let’s first take a look at its nutritional profile to better understand the nutrients found in it.

Is It Safe to Consume Jasmine Tea While Pregnant?

Now, you might be wondering, “Is jasmine tea safe during pregnancy?” Well, drinking jasmine tea during pregnancy can be safe in moderation, but there are some things to keep in mind. Jasmine tea often contains caffeine, which is present in green, black, or other teas used as the base. High caffeine intake during pregnancy has been associated with risks such as low birth weight, miscarriage, and preterm birth (3). The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends limiting caffeine intake to no more than 200 mg per day (about one to two small cups of jasmine tea) during pregnancy (2).

Benefits of Having Jasmine Tea During Pregnancy

Jasmine tea is made by infusing green tea with the scent of jasmine flowers, but it generally does not contain actual jasmine petals. As a result, jasmine tea does not provide any additional benefits beyond those of regular green tea. However, drinking green tea (with or without jasmine) can provide various advantages during pregnancy, including:

• Green tea contains antioxidants like catechins, which help protect cells from damage and support overall health (6).
• The tea’s natural antioxidants may also help strengthen the immune system, especially during pregnancy, when the body’s defences are more vulnerable (7).
• Green tea has been shown to help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve blood flow, lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke (5).
• The gentle floral scent of jasmine can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it a natural way to unwind and support a calm mind (1).
• Jasmine tea may aid digestion, helping to reduce bloating and other mild digestive issues common during pregnancy.

Things to Keep in Mind While Drinking Jasmine Tea When Pregnant

Jasmine tea can be a comforting choice during pregnancy, but there are a few important factors to consider to ensure it’s safe for you and your baby. Here are some key points to keep in mind.

1. Limit Caffeine Consumption

Jasmine tea contains caffeine, which should be limited during pregnancy. Experts recommend keeping caffeine intake below 200 mg daily, so it’s best to track your daily caffeine from all sources to ensure you stay within this safe range (8).

2. Watch for Sensitivities

Some pregnant women experience heightened sensitivities, and jasmine’s floral scent or the tea itself can sometimes trigger nausea or stomach discomfort.

3. Opt for High-Quality, Organic Tea

Choosing high-quality, organic jasmine tea can help you avoid pesticides or additives that may be present in lower-quality teas. This can ensure that tea is purer and free from unnecessary chemicals.

4. Consult Your Doctor First

Since every pregnancy is unique, it’s always best to check with your doctor before regularly drinking jasmine tea. They can advise you based on your specific health needs.

Alternatives to Jasmine Tea During Pregnancy

If you’re looking for alternatives to jasmine tea during pregnancy, flavoured or infused water can be a great choice. You can easily create your own by adding fresh fruits like strawberries, cucumbers, or mint leaves to water, letting the natural flavours and aromas infuse. This refreshing option is a healthy, caffeine-free way to stay hydrated and can satisfy any cravings for a flavourful drink without the concerns associated with jasmine tea and pregnancy.

FAQs

1. Can jasmine tea during pregnancy’s first trimester cause miscarriage?

There is no evidence to suggest that drinking jasmine tea causes miscarriage. However, excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy has been associated with a higher risk of complications, so it’s crucial to consume it in moderation (9).

2. Is it okay to drink jasmine tea every day during pregnancy?

While drinking jasmine tea in moderation is usually fine, daily consumption should be limited to avoid too much caffeine. It’s best to balance it with other caffeine-free drinks and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

3. Can drinking jasmine tea affect my sleep during pregnancy?

Jasmine tea is often believed to have a calming effect due to its pleasant fragrance, which some people find helps promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. When consumed in moderation, the soothing aroma and mild sedative properties of jasmine tea may contribute to a sense of calm and help prepare the body for rest (4). 

As with anything, balance is key; enjoying jasmine tea during pregnancy can be a soothing treat when consumed in moderation. It can help you relax and unwind, but it’s important to keep an eye on your caffeine intake to avoid any unwanted effects.  If you’re ever unsure or have specific concerns, don’t hesitate to chat with your doctor to make sure it’s the right choice for you and your baby.

References/Resources:

1. Zhang. Y, Huang. J, Xiong. Y, et al.; Jasmine Tea Attenuates Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress-Induced Depressive-like Behavior in Rats via the Gut-Brain Axis; PubMed Central; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8746588/

2. Moderate Caffeine Consumption During Pregnancy; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2010/08/moderate-caffeine-consumption-during-pregnancy

3. Qian. J, Chen. Q, Ward. S. M, et al.; Impacts of Caffeine during Pregnancy; PubMed Central; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7035149/#

4. Kuroda. K, Inoue. N, Ito. Y, et al.; Sedative effects of the jasmine tea odor and (R)-(-)-linalool, one of its major odor components, on autonomic nerve activity and mood states; PubMed; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15976995/

5. Drinking green tea is a healthy habit; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health; https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/green-tea-healthy-habit/

6. Chacko. S. M, Thambi. P. T, Kuttan. R, Nishigaki. I; Beneficial effects of green tea: a literature review; PubMed Central; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2855614/

7. Sinija. V. R, Mishra. H. N; Green tea: Health benefits; Journal of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine; https://www.researchgate.net/publication/228355417_Green_tea_Health_benefits

8. Caffeine in pregnancy; March of Dimes; https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/caffeine-pregnancy

9. THE IMPACTS OF CAFFEINE ON MISCARRIAGE; University of Utah Health; https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/2016/03/impacts-of-caffeine-miscarriage#

Also Read:

Eating Sardines During Pregnancy – Is It Safe?
Is Eating Sea Bass When Pregnant Safe?
Can You Drink Decaf Coffee While Pregnant?

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