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Is it safe? · Pregnancy Smart

Is ginger tea safe during pregnancy?

Assigned clinical reviewerMichael Yuzefovich· MD, FACOGDraft · pending clinical reviewUpdated

What does the evidence say about ginger tea during pregnancy?

  1. Studies on ginger at typical intake levels haven't found a higher chance of birth defects or preterm delivery. 1
  2. Ginger is one of the first options doctors recommend trying for pregnancy nausea before reaching for medication. 2
  3. A cup of tea gives you a lower, less consistent dose of ginger than the standardized supplements used in most nausea studies, which is why some clinicians suggest capsules for steadier dosing. 1
  4. Herbal tea blends aren't required to prove safety before they're sold, and many mix in other herbs, so plain single-ingredient ginger tea is the safer choice over blends. 1

Is ginger tea safe in each trimester?

  • First trimester. This is when most people reach for ginger tea, since nausea is often at its worst. A cup or two a day fits well within the amounts studied for pregnancy.
  • Second trimester. Nausea usually eases up by now, so you may need it less. An occasional cup is still fine.
  • Third trimester. An occasional cup is still fine. If you're considering concentrated ginger extracts close to delivery, talk with your provider first.

Frequently asked questions

How many cups of ginger tea per day are usually reasonable?

One to three cups of regular ginger tea a day fits within the range that's been studied. Check with your provider on your personal limit, especially if you're also taking ginger capsules.

Is homemade fresh ginger tea stronger than tea bags?

Yes, a strong brew from fresh ginger root can be noticeably more potent than a tea bag. Go easy on the amount if you're brewing from fresh root.

Can I combine ginger tea with a ginger supplement?

Yes, but keep track of your total ginger intake from both. Most studies used up to about 1,000 mg a day total. See our ginger supplement guide for more.

Are herbal-blend teas with ginger safe?

Only if you know every ingredient in the blend and can confirm each one is safe for pregnancy. Many blends include other herbs, like licorice root, that come with their own guidance.

Related in the library

References

  1. Ginger: MotherToBaby Fact Sheet

    MotherToBaby · https://mothertobaby.org/fact-sheets/ginger-pregnancy/

  2. Morning Sickness: Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy (ACOG)

    ACOG · https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.