
Lemongrass is a herb commonly used in cooking and medicine, but is it safe for pregnant women?
Lemongrass contains compounds called citral and myrcene, which have been linked to adverse effects on pregnancy. Myrcene, in particular, can affect fetal bone development and even lead to miscarriage when consumed in high doses. As such, it is recommended to avoid concentrated forms of lemongrass, such as lemongrass tea and supplements, during pregnancy. Small amounts of lemongrass used as a seasoning in dishes are generally considered safe.
Despite the risks, lemongrass also offers several advantages for pregnant women. It has antiemetic properties that can help reduce nausea and vomiting, and its vitamin C content can boost immunity. Additionally, lemongrass can aid in digestion, reduce swelling, and regulate blood pressure.
In conclusion, while lemongrass has potential benefits, it is important to exercise caution during pregnancy due to the possible risks associated with high doses of certain compounds.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Safe to consume during pregnancy? | No, but small amounts in Thai recipes are considered safe. |
Safe to use lemongrass oil during pregnancy? | No, but mild external application during the second and third trimesters is fine. |
Safe to use lemongrass tea during pregnancy? | No. |
Safe to use lemongrass supplements during pregnancy? | No. |
Safe alternative to lemongrass tea during pregnancy? | Ginger tea or raspberry tea. |
What You'll Learn
Lemongrass is safe in small amounts
Lemongrass: Safe in Small Amounts
Lemongrass is a herb with a citrus flavour and aroma, commonly used in Asian cuisine and herbal medicine. While it has many health benefits, there are some concerns about its safety during pregnancy.
The Benefits of Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a rich source of folic acid, vitamins A and C, zinc, potassium, copper, calcium, magnesium, and manganese. It also has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, which can help with a range of health issues.
Lemongrass is generally considered safe if consumed in small amounts, such as in Thai dishes where it is used as a seasoning. However, it is best to avoid concentrated forms of lemongrass during pregnancy, such as lemongrass tea, supplements, or essential oils.
Potential Risks of Lemongrass During Pregnancy
Lemongrass contains compounds called citral and myrcene, which have been linked to adverse effects on pregnancy. In high doses, myrcene can negatively impact the fetus's skeletal development and may even result in miscarriage. Citral, meanwhile, can cause apoptosis (cell death) and hinder cell multiplication, leading to poor fetal growth.
Additionally, lemongrass can affect blood sugar regulation, which may be dangerous for pregnant women with diabetes. It can also trigger allergic reactions, including skin rashes, itching, breathing difficulties, and throat swelling.
Recommendations
While small amounts of lemongrass in food are generally considered safe during pregnancy, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming any new foods or herbal remedies while pregnant.
Safe Alternatives During Pregnancy
Pregnant women are advised to avoid lemongrass tea and instead opt for other herbal teas, such as ginger tea or raspberry tea, which are considered safer alternatives. Lemon juice or lemon drops in decaffeinated tea are also recommended as a way to satisfy a citrus craving while avoiding the risks associated with lemongrass.
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Avoid lemongrass tea and supplements
While lemongrass has many health benefits, it is advised to avoid lemongrass tea and supplements during pregnancy. This is because lemongrass contains compounds like citral and myrcene, which can have adverse effects on pregnancy.
Myrcene, when consumed in high doses, can affect the fetus's bone development and even result in a miscarriage. Citral, on the other hand, can cause apoptosis or cell death, which can hinder the growth of the fetus. Studies on the effects of lemongrass have been conducted on rats, and while the results cannot be directly applied to humans, they are compelling enough to warrant caution.
Therefore, it is best to avoid lemongrass tea and supplements, where the herb is present in higher concentrations. Instead, opt for other herbal teas like ginger tea or raspberry tea, which are considered safe during pregnancy.
If you are a fan of the aroma of lemongrass, you can apply a few drops to a cloth and inhale it to reduce feelings of nausea and sickness. However, it is always best to consult your doctor before consuming any new foods or herbs during pregnancy.
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Lemongrass may cause allergies
Lemongrass allergy is uncommon, but it can trigger typical food allergy symptoms if swallowed or induce allergic contact dermatitis if used on the skin. If you are allergic to lemongrass, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Respiratory symptoms: coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, nasal congestion, chest tightness, sneezing, a runny nose, and postnasal drip.
- Digestive symptoms: bloating, gas, nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting.
- Skin symptoms: itchy, irritated skin with eczema or hives.
If you experience any unpleasant symptoms after using lemongrass, consult a doctor immediately and discontinue use until you receive further instructions.
Lemongrass essential oils contain limonene and other irritating compounds that can cause contact allergic reactions. Lemongrass is also a low FODMAP food, which means it contains moderate amounts of salicylates that may cause food intolerance symptoms in sensitive individuals.
If you are allergic to other plants in the Poaceae family, such as barley, bamboo shoots, corn, wheat, or rice, you may also react to lemongrass.
To determine if you have a lemongrass allergy, perform a patch test on your forearm before using it more widely.
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It can stimulate menstrual flow
Lemongrass is a herb that is used in cooking and medicine. It is used to treat digestive tract spasms, stomachaches, high blood pressure, convulsions, pain, vomiting, coughs, achy joints, fever, the common cold, and exhaustion. It is also used as a mild astringent and to kill germs.
Lemongrass is LIKELY UNSAFE to take by mouth during pregnancy. It seems to be able to stimulate menstrual flow, so there is a concern that it might cause a miscarriage.
Lemongrass is a well-known natural insect repellent and is used to repel mosquitoes and flies. It is also used as an air freshener.
Lemongrass tea is used to relieve painful periods. It is a 100% natural herbal blend that has been carefully curated to eradicate painful cramps and nausea brought on by menstruation. The volatile oils and gingerol in ginger relax the stomach to aid digestion, while lemongrass relieves pain caused by headaches and will stimulate the uterus and menstrual flow to ease cramps.
Lemongrass tea is not recommended for pregnant women as it can stimulate the uterus and menstrual flow, which might cause a miscarriage.
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It may cause a sharp drop in blood sugar levels
While lemongrass has many health benefits, it is not recommended for consumption during pregnancy, especially in concentrated forms such as lemongrass tea or supplements. This is because lemongrass can cause a sharp drop in blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby.
Lemongrass contains compounds like citral and myrcene, which can affect blood sugar regulation. If a pregnant woman with Type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes consumes too much lemongrass, it could lead to a sudden decrease in her blood sugar levels, resulting in symptoms such as tiredness, blurry vision, and dizziness. This sharp drop in blood sugar levels can pose a risk to both the mother and the baby's health.
Therefore, it is generally advised that pregnant women avoid consuming lemongrass in concentrated forms and opt for alternative herbal teas, such as ginger tea or raspberry tea, which are considered safer during pregnancy.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I consume lemongrass during pregnancy?
What are the potential risks of consuming lemongrass during pregnancy?
Are there any benefits to consuming lemongrass during pregnancy?
Can I use lemongrass oil during pregnancy?
Are there any alternatives to lemongrass tea that are safe during pregnancy?