2 Responses to “I am addicted to Arizona’s Green Tea, I know I *can* have it, but could it inhibit let down?”

1. msalermo1 on May 31st, 2009 9:03 am
   

   Ginseng Feedback: I am not a mother myself but do have a lot of women in my family that have had children. I am pretty sure that it does not affect how much milk you pump. Plus if you only drink one a day I don’t see a problem. The problem would be if you had two or more in one day.
2. mystic_eye_cda on June 3rd, 2009 12:48 am
   

   Ginseng Feedback: Caffeine can make the baby restless but it doesn’t interfere in letdown or supply. More than a moderate intake can reduce the iron level in breastmilk.

   I doubt there is enough ginseng in it to be of concern, but it depends how much you are drinking.

   Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

   Panax Ginseng is not considered a “safe” substance for long-term use in lactating women. Ginseng may cause estrogenic side effects as well as platelet changes. The most common form is the American root called Panax quinquefolium L. (this is an endangered species). There is also an Asian variety (panax ginseng), also called Korean or Chinese ginseng. These two varieties are practically identical. No data are available concerning transfer into human milk. According to Hale, no pediatric concerns have been reported but caution is urged. Also known as white ginseng, red ginseng, panax, minimycin, and red kooga. Possible side effects include tachycardia and hypertension. A Review of 12 Commonly Used Medicinal Herbs (O’Hara et al) says, “We do not recommend ginseng use for pregnant or lactating women or for children until safety and efficacy are proven in randomized controlled trials.”

   There have also been reported pediatric cases of tachycardia and hypertension that appear to be in direct correlation with the breastfeeding mother’s use of Panax ginsengs. However, as with most herbs, no official studies or research has been done to determine the extent of any effects Panax ginsengs, transferred through human milk, might have on an infant. Logic would allow, though, that because Panax ginsengs contain such strong chemical compounds, it would not be wise to expose a baby’s developing system to the effects.

   If a nursing mother still wants to take a Panax ginseng she should use extreme caution. Watch the baby closely. Signs of adverse side effects would be nervousness, shakiness, heightened anxiety, insomnia, skin rashes, and diarrhea. She should also inform her baby’s pediatrician that she is taking Panax ginseng so that baby’s heartbeat and blood pressure can be closely monitored. The mother should also be aware that Panax ginsengs could contribute to a low milk supply.

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