Chrysanthemum tea, often referred to by its Chinese name Ju Hua, is an aromatic herbal infusion popular across East Asia, made by steeping the dried flowers of the Chrysanthemum morifolium plant. This beverage has been consumed for centuries, prized for its floral, slightly sweet flavor and its role in traditional wellness practices. Its safety during pregnancy is a common concern among expecting individuals. Since clinical trials on the effects of chrysanthemum tea on human pregnancy are absent, the safety assessment relies on traditional use, chemical composition, and specific contraindications.
Current Safety Consensus During Pregnancy
The consensus regarding chrysanthemum tea consumption during pregnancy is cautionary, primarily due to a substantial lack of formal clinical research. Standardized medical guidelines for the use of most single-herb teas during gestation do not exist, leaving the safety profile largely unproven in a Western medical context. While occasional, moderate consumption of a simple chrysanthemum flower infusion is often considered low-risk by some traditional practitioners, this assessment is not backed by randomized controlled trials.
Moderation is paramount because the potential effects of herbal compounds on a developing fetus are unknown. Some experts suggest limiting intake to one to two cups per week, rather than daily use. It is also important to distinguish between pure chrysanthemum tea and herbal blends that may contain other, potentially more potent or high-risk herbs.
Many healthcare providers advise against consuming any herbal product, including chrysanthemum tea, unless its safety has been definitively established. The absence of evidence of harm does not equate to evidence of safety, which is a significant consideration during pregnancy.
Traditional Purposes and Mild Effects
Chrysanthemum has been a valued part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years, where it is known for its perceived “cooling” properties. In TCM theory, the tea is used to address conditions associated with “excess heat” or “liver fire.” This traditional classification often leads pregnant individuals to seek it out for relief from common pregnancy-related symptoms.
Historically, it has been a popular remedy for mild ailments like headaches, dizziness, and eye irritation. The tea is also traditionally consumed to help lower body temperature during fever or to soothe symptoms of a common cold.
Its reputation as a calming beverage that aids in relaxation and mild stress reduction contributes to its appeal as a caffeine-free alternative to black or green tea. While these traditional uses are rooted in centuries of cultural practice, they do not constitute proven medical benefits. The tea is mostly used for hydration and its mild, soothing effects.
Specific Risks and Contraindications
Despite the tea’s mild reputation, there are specific circumstances where chrysanthemum tea poses a risk and should be avoided entirely during pregnancy. The most immediate concern is the potential for allergic reaction, especially for individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family. This plant family includes common allergens such as ragweed, daisies, and marigolds, and cross-reactivity is a distinct possibility.
Allergic reactions can manifest as skin rashes, itching, or respiratory symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing. Traditional sources warn that excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal irritation, leading to abdominal pain or diarrhea in sensitive pregnant women.
The tea may carry a risk of drug interactions, a concern heightened during pregnancy when medication use is carefully monitored. Chrysanthemum compounds can potentially interfere with the metabolism of certain prescription drugs. This interference is relevant for women taking blood thinners, diabetes medications, or drugs that suppress the immune system, potentially altering their efficacy or increasing side effects. Consuming highly concentrated extracts or supplements, rather than a standard brewed cup, significantly increases the risk of adverse effects and should be strictly avoided.