Can You Drink Herbal Tea When Breastfeeding?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding · Last updated 28 October 2026
Fine in moderation. Familiar herbal teas in normal amounts are generally fine; check the ingredients and avoid 'detox', 'slimming' or laxative blends. The NHS doesn't list herbal teas to avoid, but herbal products aren't tested for breastfeeding, so keep to a few cups a day and ask a pharmacist about anything unusual.
What the guidance says
Herbal teas have no caffeine unless blended with tea, so they don't count towards the 300mg limit. Herbal products are not tested for breastfeeding in the way medicines are, so the sensible approach is variety: a few cups a day of familiar teas, and a pharmacist's advice for medicinal or unusual blends.
You can also check the calorie content of herbal tea alongside its safety information.
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Herbal Tea: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Limit — max 4 cups a day |
Common questions
Is herbal tea safe while breastfeeding?
Fine in moderation. Familiar herbal teas in normal amounts are generally fine; check the ingredients and avoid 'detox', 'slimming' or laxative blends. The NHS doesn't list herbal teas to avoid, but herbal products aren't tested for breastfeeding, so keep to a few cups a day and ask a pharmacist about anything unusual.
Which herbal teas should I avoid?
Avoid blends sold for 'detox', slimming or as laxatives (for example those containing senna), and anything with an ingredient you don't recognise. Ask a pharmacist if unsure.
Does herbal tea contain caffeine?
Pure herbal teas don't. Check blends that include black, green or mate tea, which do.
Was this different during pregnancy?
In pregnancy our verdict was “limit — max 4 cups a day” (see our pregnancy guide for the reasons).
What should I avoid while breastfeeding?
The NHS list is short. Caffeine: try not to have more than 300mg a day (a mug of filter coffee is about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg). Alcohol: it is safer not to drink, but 1 or 2 units once or twice a week should be fine. Oily fish: no more than 2 portions a week. Shark, swordfish and marlin: no more than 1 portion a week. Peanuts are fine unless you're allergic. Most other foods that were off the menu in pregnancy, such as soft cheese, pâté, cured meat and runny eggs, are not restricted.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.