Can I Take Mint During Pregnancy? Know 6 Benefits For Maternal Health!

The refreshing taste of mint often proves irresistible, especially for pregnant women battling nausea. But is indulging in this aromatic herb truly beneficial, or could eating mint during pregnancy pose potential risks? While mint leaves during pregnancy offer various benefits, it's crucial to approach their consumption cautiously, as excessive intake can have unintended consequences. Therefore, consulting with a medical expert to include mint in your pregnancy diet is essential to ensure maternal and fetal wellness.

Before considering this herb, start by knowing the major health benefits of mint during pregnancy and how to consume it safely in this blog. Let’s find out whether mint during pregnancy is safe for you and your child!

Table Of Contents

1. About Mint Leaves And Its Nutritive Values

2. 6 Benefits Of Mint Leaves During Pregnancy

3. How To Take Mint During Pregnancy?

4. 4 Beneficial Herbal Teas During Pregnancy

5. Dietitian’s Recommendation

6. The Final Say

7. FAQs

8. References

About Mint Leaves And Its Nutritive Values

Mint, also known as Pudina is a refreshing herb with numerous varieties, has been cherished for centuries. Renowned for its relaxing aroma, mint offers many health benefits to pregnant women. There are many varieties of mint such as peppermint, spearmint, apple mint, chocolate mint and lemon mint. Each variety has its characteristic taste and properties.

Belonging to the Mentha genus, mint plants contain essential oils rich in compounds like menthol, limonene, and menthone, which are responsible for their characteristic cooling sensation. Beyond their aromatic qualities, mint leaves are full of other compounds like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and vitamins, which act as potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.

Note this 100 g of mint nutritive values for reference:

Also Read: 9 Benefits Of Kesar Milk During Pregnancy To Relieve Morning Sickness, Mood Swings, & More! 

6 Benefits Of Mint Leaves During Pregnancy

Pregnancy often causes many physical and emotional changes that can affect their wellness, causing nausea, vomiting, indigestion, constipation, bloating, gas, headaches, stress, anxiety and insomnia. Thanks to mint’s high methanol content, it improves digestion or unwanted stomach irritation. The aromatic flavour of mint during pregnancy helps the body and mind to relax more.

Let’s explore these ways mint during pregnancy can prove to be beneficial for your health outcomes:

1. Reduces Nausea And Vomiting

These are very common during the first trimester of pregnancy. They are caused by hormonal changes, increased sensitivity to smells and low blood sugar. Mint can help by activating enzymes in the digestive tract that reduce nausea.

Mint can also mask unpleasant tastes and smells that trigger nausea. Peppermint tea is a popular remedy for morning sickness. You can also chew fresh or dried mint leaves or inhale peppermint oil to relieve nausea.

2. Improves Digestion And Relieves Constipation

Due to the activity of the hormone progesterone, pregnant women often experience constipation and indigestion. Mint can help by stimulating the production of bile and saliva, which aid digestion. Mint can also relax the muscles of the intestines and increase their peristalsis, which helps with stool movement.

Mint can also relieve bloating and gas by reducing spasms in the digestive tract. To improve digestion, drink mint tea or water after a meal or add mint leaves to salads or soups.

3. Soothes Headaches And Migraines

Headaches during pregnancy and migraines are common due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, dehydration or lack of sleep. Mint can help by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow to the brain.

Mint can also have a cooling effect on the forehead and temples, reducing pain and inflammation. To relieve headaches, you can apply peppermint oil or paste to these areas or drink peppermint tea.

4. Calms Stress And Anxiety

Pregnancy can be a stressful time for many women due to physical changes, emotional swings or concerns about health or childbirth. Mint can help by stimulating the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that enhances mood and happiness hormones.

Mint can also relax the nervous system, reducing tension and nervousness. You can drink peppermint herbal tea or inhale peppermint oil to calm your nerves and improve your mood.

5. Promotes Sleep Cycles Quality

Insomnia is another common problem during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, discomfort or anxiety. Mint can help by inducing a state of relaxation and sleepiness. Mint can also lower your body temperature and make you feel more comfortable at night. You can drink peppermint tea or spray peppermint water on your pillow before bed to improve the quality of your sleep.

6. Supports Immune System Strengthening

Supporting the immune system is also important during pregnancy. Mint has been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These essential properties can significantly boost the immune system of pregnant women and help protect them from disease.

Also Read: 7 Benefits of Eating Raw Mango During Pregnancy | ToneOp 

How To Take Mint During Pregnancy?

Consider these ways to consume or incorporate mint during pregnancy for reference:

1. Try Mint As Essential oils

Mint is widely known for its aroma and is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation. Peppermint essential oil is known for its soothing effects and aids in digestion.

However, pregnant women should be aware that some essential oils contain harmful chemicals that can cross the placenta and reach the baby. This is why frequent use of essential oils during pregnancy has not been thoroughly researched or recommended.

2. For Cooking And Seasoning

Mint leaves can be used to flavour food and drinks. For example, adding mint to food or tea during pregnancy can help reduce nausea, indigestion, and heartburn. Mint can also be added to other foods such as ice cream, chocolate, candies, and drinks. Consuming mint in small amounts is generally considered safe during pregnancy. 

Note: High amounts of menthol can lead to uterine contractions, so pregnant women should avoid adding large amounts of mint to their food. 

3. Other Ways To Incorporate Mint During Pregnancy

You can enjoy mint during pregnancy whether you are still in your first trimester or well into your third trimester. Consider these ways to include them:

• You can add fresh and organic mint leaves to salads or cooked vegetables for a refreshing taste. 

• Mint is also great in green smoothies, pesto sauces and yoghurt dips.

• You can even add chopped mint leaves to water or tea for a refreshing drink. 

• Make a mocktail by adding mint and other fresh fruit to sparkling water.

4 Beneficial Herbal Teas During Pregnancy

Many teas labelled as herbal pregnancy tea are available, and the ones that often contain red raspberry leaf are considered beneficial during pregnancy. Health experts also believe that regular consumption of these herbal teas can help prevent pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, premature labour, prolonged labour, and postpartum haemorrhage.

Note these herbal teas that are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding for reference (but consult your doctor before adding them to your diet):

Also Read: 8 Refreshing Detox Water For Pregnancy | ToneOp 

Dietitian’s Recommendation

Mint is an amazing herb with many benefits for pregnant women. You can't go wrong adding mint during pregnancy to your diet as it is full of required antioxidants, vitamins, iron and more. However, it depends on the amount you receive. If you can consume mint, ensure that it is consumed in moderation. But if you are still unsure about this herb, it is better to consult your doctor to rule out any complications that may occur if you take mint during pregnancy.

                                                                                        Dt. Lavina Chauhan

The Final Say

To sum up, mint during pregnancy offers many benefits to pregnant women and their babies. It works to reduce nausea, improve digestion, soothe headaches, calm stress, promote sleep, boost immunity, relieve colic and improve appetite. However, consume mint safely during pregnancy by consulting your doctor, usually in moderation by washing it thoroughly before use. So, you can enjoy the refreshing and healing effects of mint during pregnancy by following these tips carefully.

FAQs

1. What herbs should I avoid during pregnancy?

Parsley, sage, ginseng, basil, oregano, dandelion, and rosehip are some herbs that have not been researched enough, and their effects on pregnant women are not scientifically proven. These must be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding as they may not be safe for you or your baby.

2. Is mint and ginger good for pregnancy?

Absolutely! Herbs like mint and ginger are considered safe to drink in moderation when you're pregnant. Just keep in mind that they are more concentrated in teas than in food, so drinking too much of them can be harmful even if you eat them.

3. What are the effects of mint in the first trimester of pregnancy?

Mint is generally considered safe to consume during the first trimester of pregnancy. It can help reduce excessive nausea and vomiting, which are common problems at this time. However, consumption of mint during pregnancy in large quantities should be avoided.

4. Is Pudina safe during pregnancy?

Yes, but in limited quantity! Consuming large amounts of peppermint is not considered safe during pregnancy. It may increase the risk of miscarriage, and in case of any doubt, consult a doctor.

References

• https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/is-it-safe/herbal-tea/

• https://himommy.app/hi/pregnancy/eatornottoeat/product/peppermint/

• https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/herbal-teas-during-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding

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