Can You Drink Chamomile Tea While Breastfeeding?

Q: What to Do Next:?

Key Takeaway: Chamomile tea can be a safe, effective way to lower stress and support digestion, which indirectly benefits your breastfeeding journey.

Posted on December 23, 2025

Can You Drink Chamomile Tea While Breastfeeding? A Mama’s Guide to Soothing Sips

Introduction
Understanding Chamomile and Breastfeeding Safety
The Potential Benefits for Breastfeeding Moms
Can Chamomile Tea Increase Milk Supply?
Potential Risks and Considerations
How Chamomile Affects Your Baby
Choosing the Best Tea for Your Nursing Journey
Herbal Alternatives to Chamomile
The Importance of Ritual in Postpartum Care
Summary of Best Practices
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

Finding a moment for a warm cup of tea can be the only "me time" you get in a day. When you are navigating the beautiful, exhausting world of new parenthood, those small rituals matter. If chamomile was your go-to for relaxation before baby arrived, you are likely wondering if it is still a safe choice now that you are nursing.

At Milky Mama, we know every choice is filtered through the lens of your baby’s well-being. We want to help you find that balance between self-care and safety. The short answer is: Yes, you can typically enjoy chamomile tea in moderation while breastfeeding. However, there are a few important safety details and quality checks you should know to keep both you and your little one comfortable.

Quick Answer: Chamomile tea is generally considered safe for breastfeeding parents when consumed in moderation, typically 1 to 2 cups per day. While it can help with relaxation and digestion, you should exercise caution if you have a ragweed/Asteraceae allergy and stick to standard tea bags vs. tinctures/supplements to ensure a safe, appropriate concentration.

Understanding Chamomile and Breastfeeding Safety

Chamomile is a popular herbal infusion known for its delicate flavor and ability to help the body unwind. When you are breastfeeding, small amounts of what you consume can pass into your breast milk.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies chamomile as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) when used as food seasoning or flavoring. For breastfeeding parents, most lactation experts and databases, such as LactMed, suggest that moderate consumption is unlikely to cause issues for a nursing infant.

However, herbs contain active biological compounds. While a standard cup of tea is less concentrated than a supplement, it still affects your system. Most healthcare providers recommend limiting herbal tea intake to 1 to 2 cups per day to stay on the safe side.

For more on the connection between relaxation and lactation, see our guide on The Gentle Truth About Why Chamomile Helps Milk Supply.

German vs. Roman Chamomile

Two main types of chamomile are used in teas:

German Chamomile (Matricaria recutita): The most common variety in commercial tea bags, containing apigenin to promote relaxation.
Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile): Common in essential oils and medicinal teas; safe in food-grade amounts but less common in grocery stores.

Both varieties are generally safe for nursing moms when prepared as a standard infusion (steeping the plant in hot water).

Quick Summary:

Safety First: Chamomile is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for moderate consumption.

Milk Transfer: Only small amounts of chamomile's active compounds pass into breast milk.

Main Benefits: It is primarily used by nursing parents for stress relief and digestive support.

Supply Myth: While it may help you relax, it is not a scientifically proven galactagogue.

Key Cautions: Be mindful of Asteraceae family allergies and prioritize high-quality tea brands.

The Potential Benefits for Breastfeeding Moms

The physical and emotional demands of breastfeeding can take a toll. Chamomile may offer support for your overall wellness during this marathon.

Stress Reduction and Sleep Support

High stress can interfere with your let-down reflex—the process where your body releases milk into the ducts. When you are tense, the production of cortisol and adrenaline can occasionally make milk flow more difficult. Chamomile’s mild sedative properties can help you transition into a relaxed state, creating a more peaceful environment for nursing and helping you catch precious sleep between sessions.

Digestive Comfort

Many new moms experience digestive shifts postpartum. As a carminative, chamomile has been used for centuries to soothe upset stomachs, reduce gas, and ease indigestion.

What to Do Next:

Start with one small cup of tea in the afternoon.
Monitor your baby’s behavior over the next 24 hours.
If you enjoy the ritual, limit intake to 1–2 cups daily.

Key Takeaway: Chamomile tea can be a safe, effective way to lower stress and support digestion, which indirectly benefits your breastfeeding journey.

Can Chamomile Tea Increase Milk Supply?

You might have heard that chamomile is a galactagogue—a substance believed to increase milk production. However, evidence for this is mostly anecdotal. While some cultures use it for lactation support, milk supply is primarily driven by "supply and demand."

The more milk you remove through nursing or pumping, the more your body will make. Herbs work best when combined with frequent milk removal and proper nutrition. To support your supply, we recommend focusing on nutrient-dense foods. Our Emergency Lactation Brownies, featuring oats and flaxseed, are a community favorite. You can also browse our full lactation snacks collection.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While generally safe, every person and baby reacts differently to herbs.

The "Aster Family" Allergy

Chamomile belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes ragweed, daisies, marigolds, and sunflowers. If you have a known ragweed/Asteraceae allergy, be very careful. Reactions may include:

Skin rashes or hives
Itchy eyes
Sneezing or runny nose
Difficulty breathing (rare)

Botulism Risk

Botulism spores are occasionally found in low-quality, loose-leaf herbal teas. While the risk is very low for adults, infants have immature digestive systems that cannot handle these spores. To minimize risk, buy high-quality tea from reputable brands and always steep it in boiling water.

Uterine Stimulation

In concentrated forms like medicinal extracts, chamomile can act as a uterine stimulant. Postpartum, it is vital to stick to standard tea bags vs. tinctures/supplements unless advised otherwise by a doctor or IBCLC.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Note: The main safety concerns regarding chamomile include ragweed/Asteraceae allergy cross-reactivity and the use of concentrated extracts. Stick to high-quality, standard tea bags and stop consumption immediately if you or your baby show any signs of an allergic reaction.

How Chamomile Affects Your Baby

A small amount of chamomile's active compounds will enter your milk. For most babies, this has no noticeable effect, though some parents report their babies seem calmer.

Does it Help with Colic?

Some studies suggest that small, direct doses of herbal tea containing chamomile, fennel, and balm mint may reduce crying time in colicky infants. However, experts recommend that babies under six months receive only breast milk or formula. By drinking the tea yourself, your baby receives a "filtered" version of these benefits through your milk.

Watching for Sensitivity

Keep an eye on your baby's skin and digestion. If they develop a rash, become unusually fussy, or have diarrhea, it could be a sign of sensitivity. You are the expert on your baby—trust your observations of these small cues.

Choosing the Best Tea for Your Nursing Journey

When shopping for tea, keep these tips in mind:

Check the Ingredients: Ensure all herbs in "bedtime" blends are safe for breastfeeding.
Avoid Caffeine: Stick to naturally caffeine-free chamomile; some blends add black or green tea, which can make babies jittery.
Choose Organic: This minimizes your baby's exposure to pesticides.
Sourcing Matters: Choose reputable brands that disclose where their herbs are grown.

If tea isn't your favorite way to stay hydrated, try our Pumpin Punch™ and Lactation LeMOOnade™ for flavorful, hydrating support.

Herbal Alternatives to Chamomile

If you have a ragweed allergy or dislike the taste of chamomile, consider these alternatives:

Ginger Tea: Excellent for digestion and nausea.
Peppermint Tea: Great for gas (though monitor your supply, as some believe large amounts may impact it).
Red Raspberry Leaf: Rich in minerals like iron and calcium for postpartum recovery.

Introduce one new herb at a time to easily identify the cause of any reactions.

The Importance of Ritual in Postpartum Care

"Breastfeeding support" must include the mother's mental health. The act of boiling water and sitting still for five minutes can be a form of meditation.

"A calm, hydrated, and nourished parent is better equipped to handle the demands of nursing."

Whether you enjoy a cup of tea or a lactation treat, your well-being matters as much as the milk you produce. If you feel overwhelmed, a certified lactation consultant via our breastfeeding help page can provide clarity, or you can join our Breastfeeding 101 course.

Summary of Best Practices

To make the most of your chamomile ritual:

Limit your intake: Stick to 1 to 2 cups per day.
Monitor for allergies: Watch for the Aster family/ragweed connection.
Prioritize quality: Use high-quality tea bags and boiling water.
Stay hydrated: Use tea as a supplement to water, not a replacement.
Listen to your baby: Watch for changes in sleep, skin, or digestion.

Key Takeaway: Chamomile is a gentle, safe herbal option for most breastfeeding families, provided it is consumed in moderation and sourced from high-quality providers.

Conclusion

Navigating safety while breastfeeding is a big responsibility, but chamomile tea is a time-tested option for a much-needed moment of calm. By choosing high-quality sources and sticking to moderate amounts, you can enjoy your ritual with peace of mind.

Whether you are sipping tea to relax or using our products to support your supply, you are doing an incredible job.

Keep it moderate: 1-2 cups is the ideal range.
Check the labels: Ensure your blend is breastfeeding-friendly.
Trust your gut: Switch to a different herbal option if something doesn't feel right.

Explore our Lactation Supplements collection and our lactation drinks for more ways to nourish your journey.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.

FAQ

Can chamomile tea reduce my milk supply?

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that chamomile tea reduces milk supply; in fact, some cultures use it as a mild galactagogue. However, excessive consumption of any liquid other than water should be monitored to ensure you are still getting proper nutrition.

Will drinking chamomile tea make my baby sleep longer?

While small amounts of chamomile's calming compounds pass into breast milk, it is unlikely to cause significant changes in a baby's sleep schedule. Most babies will not experience extreme sleepiness from their mother drinking a standard cup of tea.

Is it safe to use chamomile nipple cream for cracked nipples?

Topical chamomile can be soothing, but it is a known sensitizing agent that can cause contact dermatitis in some women. If you use a cream containing chamomile, monitor your skin for redness or itching and ensure it is safe for the baby to ingest if you don't wash it off before nursing.

Can I drink chamomile tea if I am allergic to ragweed?

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Can You Drink Chamomile Tea While Breastfeeding?

Table of Contents

Introduction