Is it safe to drink peppermint tea while breastfeeding?

Answer 1

Peppermint oil has been shown to decrease milk supply so tea should be avoided unless you suffer from oversupply issues

**Edit - Actually unless you drink GALLONS a day, peppermint tea is pretty innocuous as far as affecting breast milk supply... for MOST women. I would say continue drinking it and keep an eye on your production. Talk to your lactation consultant if you're really worried. Many women in the Middle East actually apply peppermint to their nipples to help treat cracking/chapping.

***Edit - Peppermint tea contains menthol (same goes for spearmint) and should therefore be avoided when breastfeeding as you would pass the menthol on through the milk. The containing menthol can cause diarrhoea and skin irritation at the infant.

Answer 2

Yes it is. A breastfeeding mum needs extra fluids and Earl Grey is a good choice. She can drink virtually any drink available in a family supermarket without worrying. Milk, fruit juices, soft drinks, soups, coffee, Hot Chocolate, milkshake, various teas etc are all good choices. As is plain water.

The only thing to be careful of is too much alcohol. And, of course, take care not to spill hot drinks on your baby!

Answer 3

Yes it is safe; however, it's rumored to cause milk supply reduction. Just don't drink/eat too much and you shouldn't have to worry.