If you have a cold or flu, a cup of tea can soothe your throat and help loosen congestion in your sinuses. The warm liquid also boosts antibacterial properties that fight off germs and give your immune system a boost. Echinacea is known for its sweet floral flavor, it is an herbal tea that may boost your immune system and fend off the common cold. The herb is also used to treat a number of other infections. Research shows that echinacea extract has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which may help prevent upper respiratory tract infections and asthma symptoms. Echinacea is also known for its calming properties. Many women turn to it during pregnancy to ward off colds and flu because it is a natural and safe treatment option. However, some people wonder if echinacea tea is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The answer to this question depends largely on the individual. Generally speaking, Echinacea teas are usually safe for most people to take in the short term to help keep them healthy. However, it is best for pregnant women to consult a qualified healthcare professional before consuming any herbal teas or supplements during pregnancy. Echinacea tea contains compounds that may interact with certain medications and could affect hormonal balance in pregnant women, so it is important to speak to a doctor before use, each case should be evaluated on an individual basis by consulting a qualified healthcare provider.

FAQ about Echinacea Tea

Can Echinacea Tea Cause Birth Defects?

There isn’t enough research to determine if taking echinacea during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects. Until more studies are conducted, experts recommend using caution when taking echinacea during pregnancy.

Can I Take Echinacea Tablets or Drops During Pregnancy?

Echinacea tea and tinctures are safe during pregnancy, but you may want to avoid echinacea tablets since they can contain too much echinacea. If you decide to try echinacea tablets, talk to your doctor about what dosage is right for you.

Can Taking Echinacea Cause Long-Term Problems with Behavior or Learning for My Baby?

There are no studies that have been conducted to determine if echinacea tea causes long-term problems with behavior or learning for your baby. It is recommended that you discuss your concerns with your doctor or OB/GYN before deciding to take echinacea tea during pregnancy.

Can I Drink Echinacea Tea Every Day?

If you want to drink echinacea tea, it is best to limit your intake to no more than one or two cups a day. Keep in mind that echinacea is an anti-inflammatory, so drinking too much can lead to negative side effects.

During pregnancy, it’s important to drink plenty of water and consume foods that are high in water content. This can help to prevent dehydration, which can lead to irritability and fatigue. It’s also important to make sure you are getting the proper amount of vitamins and minerals in your diet.

Can I Use Echinacea to Treat Uveitis?

A study by the University of British Columbia found that consuming echinacea can help to reverse inflammation in the body. This is especially helpful for people who have rheumatoid arthritis. It can also help with symptoms of the flu, including fever, aches, and coughs. It is especially useful when taken at the first sign of a cold or flu to reduce symptoms and avoid complications.

Can I Use Echinacea Tea When I’m Traveling?

If you’re traveling, echinacea tea can help to boost your immune system and ward off illnesses. It’s best to drink echinacea tea at the first sign of a cold or the flu so it can be most effective.

Does Taking Echinacea Tea Cause Bad Breath?

Although echinacea tea is a great way to get your daily dose of this herb, it can cause bad breath if you drink too much. If you’re concerned about bad breath, drink a glass of water after consuming echinacea tea.

Can I Drink Echinacea Herbal Tea With My Child?

Because echinacea is an anti-inflammatory, it can be a good idea to avoid it when you’re pregnant or nursing. If you’re breastfeeding, echinacea may interfere with the amount of milk that your baby produces.

How To Make Echinacea Tea?

Making echinacea tea is a simple process that can be done with either fresh or dried echinacea herb. Here are the steps to make echinacea tea:

• If you are using fresh echinacea, wash the leaves and flowers thoroughly.  If you are using dried echinacea, skip to the next step.
• Chop the echinacea into small pieces. You can use a knife or a food processor for this.
• Boil 1-2 cups of water in a pot or kettle.
• Place 1-2 teaspoons of chopped echinacea into a tea infuser or a tea ball.
• Pour the boiling water over the echinacea in the tea infuser or tea ball.
• Steep the tea for 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired strength.
• Remove the tea infuser or tea ball and discard the echinacea.
• Honey or lemon added if desired, and then enjoy your echinacea tea!

Note: Echinacea tea can be consumed 2-3 times a day.  However, if you have any allergies or medical conditions, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming echinacea tea.