Is Ginger Tea Safe While Breastfeeding?

When you’re breastfeeding, what you eat and drink doesn’t only have an impact on your body; it also has an impact on your baby.

That’s why many new moms start paying more attention to food, drinks, and even over-the-counter health remedies that they might have consumed without a second thought before.

One of the questions that keep pooping in our inbox is “Can you continue to drink ginger tea if you are breastfeeding? Today, we’ve decided to answer this question in this post.

The short answer is yes. In moderation, ginger tea seems to be safe while breastfeeding. In fact, it may even have some benefits for both mother and baby. But like most herbal remedies, there are a few things you should know before using it every day.

In this post, we’ll explain the safety, benefits, side effects, and dosage for ginger tea when breastfeeding.

We’ll also mention when you might want to avoid it and other herbal teas that can be beneficial for milk-making mothers.

Why Is Ginger Tea Different?

Ginger has been used in traditional medicine in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East for thousands of years. It’s well known for:

Reducing nausea and morning sickness
Supporting digestion
Reducing inflammation
Calming colds and coughs

Ginger tea, whether obtained from a dried teabag or fresh ginger root, is a natural infusion packed with these benefits. But when you’re breastfeeding, the question isn’t only “what does ginger do?”—it’s also “does ginger go into breast milk and affect my baby?”

Is Ginger Tea Safe for Breastfeeding Moms?

In moderation, ginger tea is safe for women who breastfeed. According to studies, ginger does not negatively impact breast milk production—and in some cases actually helps to increase supply.

Here’s why:

No strong evidence of harm: Research into ginger and lactation is limited, but no major health authorities (such as the American Academy of Pediatrics or WHO) have listed ginger as unsafe for breastfeeding mothers.
Traditional postpartum use: Ginger has been an integral part of the postpartum diet in many cultures, as mothers are expected to regain strength and stimulate digestion during recovery.
Minimal transfer through breast milk: The small amount of ginger compounds that pass into breast milk are not known to cause problems for babies.

That said, consuming too much ginger tea can lead to side effects for both mom and baby—like gas, heartburn, or mild digestive upset for mothers, and tummy cramps for babies.

Benefits of Ginger Tea for Breastfeeding Moms

Consuming ginger tea in small amounts can actually help you in a number of ways during the postpartum period. Let’s look at the possible positives:

Eases Digestive Discomfort
After delivery, most moms experience gas, bloating, or constipation. Ginger tea is an age-old digestive cleanser that relaxes the stomach and aids in healthy digestion.
Reduces Postpartum Nausea
If nausea or motion sickness is still bothering you after delivery, ginger tea may be a gentle way to ease queasiness.
Anti-Inflammatory Support
Breastfeeding is a physical activity, and like all physical activity, it places stress on your body, particularly your back and joints. Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help ease aches and pains.
May Support Milk Flow
Some traditions suggest that ginger stimulates blood circulation and may enhance milk production. Although scientific evidence is limited, many mothers report a positive outcome.
Boosts Immunity
Ginger tea is loaded with antioxidants that can boost your immune system—especially important when you’re caring for a newborn and need to avoid getting sick.

Side Effects of Drinking Ginger Tea While Breastfeeding

Even though ginger is natural, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s always safe. Some mothers and babies can experience side effects.

For Mothers:

Heartburn or acid reflux: Ginger is warming and may aggravate reflux in sensitive individuals.
Stomach upset or diarrhea: Large amounts can overstimulate your digestive system.
Blood-thinning properties: If you are taking heart medication or recovering from postpartum bleeding, talk to your doctor before adding ginger to your diet.

For Babies:

Gas or fussiness: In rare cases, some mothers find that their baby gets gassy after they drink lots of ginger tea.
Mild sensitivity: Every baby is different, so monitor any changes in mood, feeding, or digestion.

How Much Ginger Tea Is Safe While Breastfeeding?

Moderation is key. Health experts recommend drinking one to two cups of ginger tea daily while breastfeeding.

Safe serving size: About 1–2 grams of dried ginger or a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger steeped in hot water.
Avoid excess: More than 4 grams daily (roughly 4 cups of strong tea) may increase the risk of side effects.

If you’re unsure, start small—perhaps half a cup or a light brew—and see how your body and your baby respond.

Who Should Avoid Ginger Tea During Breastfeeding?

Even though ginger tea is generally safe, you should avoid or limit it if:

You have a history of severe acid reflux or ulcers
You are taking blood thinners (such as warfarin)
You experienced heavy bleeding after giving birth
Your baby becomes unusually fussy or develops stomach upset after you drink it

Note: If you’re concerned, talk to your pediatrician or lactation consultant.

Best Ways to Enjoy Ginger Tea While Breastfeeding

If you want to incorporate ginger tea into your routine, these tips will help you do so safely:

Make it fresh: Boil fresh chunks of ginger in hot water for 5–10 minutes for a soothing natural tea.
Avoid too much sugar: Sweeten with honey (if you’re not allergic) instead of processed sugar.
Pair with safe herbs: Ginger is safe when combined with other lactation-friendly herbs such as chamomile, rooibos, and lemon balm.
Stick to mild brews: Avoid overly strong teas by favoring light infusions.

Herbal Teas That Are Safe for Breastfeeding Moms

If you want variety, here are other teas usually considered safe while breastfeeding:

Chamomile tea: Calming, supports better sleep.
Rooibos tea: Naturally caffeine-free and antioxidant-rich.
Fenugreek tea: Traditionally used to boost milk supply, though it may cause gas in some babies.
Peppermint tea (in small amounts): Helps with bloating but may reduce milk supply in large amounts.

Practical Tips for New Moms

When brewing ginger tea—or any herbal tea—while breastfeeding:

Start small: Try one cup and observe your baby’s response over the next 24 hours.
Stay hydrated: Water should still be your main source of hydration.
Balance your diet: Ginger tea should complement a healthy, nutritious diet.
Read labels: If you buy packaged ginger tea, check for other herbs that may not be safe during lactation.

Expert Takeaway

So, is ginger tea safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. In moderation, ginger tea is safe, soothing, and even helpful for most women. It can aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and provide comfort during the postpartum period.

But remember: every mother and baby pair is different. If you notice unusual reactions, reduce or stop consumption and consult a healthcare professional.

Bottom Line

In small amounts (1–2 cups per day), ginger tea is unlikely to cause harm while breastfeeding.
It may improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and possibly support milk flow.
Watch for side effects such as heartburn or fussiness in your baby.
Avoid it if you have health conditions or are taking blood thinners.

If you are in doubt or develop concerning symptoms, contact your doctor.

With mindful use, ginger tea can be a warm, comforting part of your breastfeeding journey—helping you relax, heal, and feel more like yourself again.

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