Breastfeeding mothers often seek natural remedies, such as herbal teas, to support postpartum health and milk supply. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) tea is a popular, traditional beverage. Understanding the safety profile and specific effects of these two roots is important for mothers making informed dietary choices while nursing. This article explores the evidence regarding the consumption of ginger and turmeric tea during lactation.
Overall Safety of the Combination
Consuming ginger and turmeric in the amounts typically used for tea is generally considered safe during nursing. Both herbs are classified as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when used as food flavorings. This status applies to typical culinary amounts, which are much lower than concentrated supplements. Moderate consumption is the most important factor for maintaining safety for both mother and infant.
Research suggests that the active components from both roots transfer into breast milk in only very small amounts, if at all. Curcumin, the primary active compound in turmeric, has low systemic absorption, limiting its concentration in the mother’s bloodstream and milk. Studies involving infants exposed to turmeric through breast milk have found no adverse effects, supporting the safety of moderate intake.
Ginger’s Impact on Lactation
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has a long history of use, particularly in Asia, as a mild galactagogue—a substance that may help increase milk production. Scientific evidence supporting this traditional use is encouraging. Some randomized controlled trials have shown that ginger consumption can lead to a higher volume of breast milk in the immediate postpartum period, often around three days after delivery.
Ginger also provides maternal benefits due to its anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory properties. These effects can aid a mother recovering postpartum or dealing with digestive discomfort. When consumed as tea, ginger is typically well-tolerated, and studies focusing on its use during lactation have reported no notable side effects in breastfed infants.
Turmeric’s Impact on Lactation
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains curcumin, a compound known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which benefit maternal health. These anti-inflammatory effects support overall postpartum recovery. Curcumin has low bioavailability, meaning very little of the compound is absorbed into the mother’s system after digestion.
This limited systemic absorption reduces the likelihood of high concentrations passing into breast milk, minimizing risk to the infant. Although some traditional uses include turmeric as a milk-booster, laboratory studies using high concentrations of isolated curcumin have suggested a potential suppressive effect on milk production. This laboratory observation does not translate to a risk when consuming typical dietary amounts, such as in tea.
Safe Dosing and Consultation
When consuming ginger and turmeric tea, moderate intake is advisable, typically limited to one to two cups per day. The tea should be prepared using fresh or dried root pieces. Avoid highly concentrated extracts or high-dose supplements, as these contain active compounds far exceeding culinary levels. Supplements, especially those marketed for lactation, often lack FDA regulation and may contain unverified ingredients.
Before incorporating any new herbal remedy, consult with a healthcare provider or a certified lactation consultant. This is important for mothers with pre-existing conditions or those taking medications that could interact with the herbs, such as blood thinners. Professional guidance ensures the tea is a safe addition to the mother’s diet.