Can I eat Camille tea while pregnant?

US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.

What Guidelines Say

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Guidelines suggest caution with chamomile tea due to limited safety data and potential uterine-stimulating effects during pregnancy.

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Chamomile tea (often referred to as Camille tea) is classified as an herbal supplement by the FDA, meaning it does not undergo the same rigorous safety testing as medications. Most medical organizations, including ACOG, note that the safety of herbal teas during pregnancy is largely unknown due to a lack of clinical trials. Chamomile contains compounds that may act as uterine stimulants or mild blood thinners, which theoretically increases the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor when consumed in medicinal amounts. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties are similar to NSAIDs, which are generally restricted in late pregnancy due to potential effects on the fetal heart (ductus arteriosus). Because of these uncertainties and the potential for allergic reactions in those sensitive to ragweed, guidelines typically recommend limiting consumption to occasional use or choosing better-studied alternatives like ginger or peppermint tea.

Avoid

Herbal Teas with Uncertain Safety Profiles

Caution

Consult a healthcare provider before consuming any herbal teas during pregnancy.

Safe Options

Decaffeinated Black or Green Tea

Expert Pick

Ginger Tea

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Updated: Jan 2026 Sources: How much coffee can I drink while I'm pregnant? | ACOG +2

Safer Choices

Decaffeinated Black or Green Tea

  • Lower caffeine content
  • Generally safe in moderation
  • These options offer a traditional tea experience with well-documented safety profiles when caffeine levels are controlled.

Ginger Tea

  • Alleviates nausea
  • Recommended for morning sickness
  • Recognized by ACOG as a safe and effective option for managing pregnancy-related nausea when used in moderation.

Peppermint Tea

  • Aids digestion
  • Typically safe for pregnant women
  • Generally considered safe in food-grade amounts for relieving digestive discomfort and bloating during pregnancy.

Fruit-Infused Water

  • Using fresh lemon, orange, or berries in hot water provides flavor without the pharmacological risks of herbal compounds.

Risks & Limits

Herbal Teas with Uncertain Safety Profiles

  • Avoid ingredients like licorice root
  • Potential adverse effects

High-Caffeine Teas

  • Limit intake
  • Excessive caffeine poses risks

Medicinal Strength Infusions

  • Long steeping times or high concentrations of chamomile increase the intake of active botanical compounds that may affect the uterus.

Chamomile Supplements and Extracts

  • Concentrated pills, tinctures, or extracts carry a significantly higher risk of uterine stimulation than standard commercial tea bags.

Excessive Daily Consumption

  • Limiting intake to no more than one cup occasionally reduces cumulative exposure to coumarin and other active agents.

Key Points from Health Guidelines

Based on ACOG, FDA, NIH published guidance

  • 1
    Consult a healthcare provider before consuming any herbal teas during pregnancy.
  • 2
    Limit caffeine intake to less than 200 milligrams per day during pregnancy.
  • 3
    Choose herbal teas with established safety profiles for pregnant women.
  • 4
    Read ingredient labels carefully to identify potentially harmful components.
  • 5
    Monitor for any adverse reactions when trying a new tea.
  • 6
    Consult a healthcare provider before adding herbal teas to a prenatal diet
  • 7
    Limit consumption to one small cup occasionally rather than daily use

Common Questions

Is chamomile tea safe during the first trimester?
The safety of chamomile tea during the first trimester is not well-established. Due to limited research, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before consuming chamomile tea during this period.
How much chamomile tea is safe to drink during pregnancy?
There are no established guidelines on safe amounts of chamomile tea during pregnancy. Given the uncertainty, it is best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
What are the main risks associated with drinking chamomile tea while pregnant?
Potential risks include allergic reactions and possible interactions with medications. Due to limited research, the full extent of risks is not well-known.
What are safer alternatives to chamomile tea during pregnancy?
Safer alternatives include decaffeinated black or green tea, ginger tea, and peppermint tea, which are generally considered safe for pregnant women.
How should herbal teas be prepared to ensure safety during pregnancy?
Use commercially prepared teas from reputable sources, follow package instructions, and avoid adding excessive sweeteners. Always consult a healthcare provider before introducing new herbal teas during pregnancy.