How Safe Is Lemongrass During Pregnancy?

Lemongrass: The Asian Flavoring Herb

Lemongrass is a kind of grass that widely grows and is used in tropical regions. The presence of mild citrus flavor (lemon) gives it the name Lemongrass. It is an herb and is a flavoring agent in many cuisines, significantly in Thai and Vietnamese cuisines.

Lemongrass is a favorite among many herbal tea lovers and often features on the menu of many small and big cafes across Asian countries. Many tropical countries cultivate them as a culinary herb or medicinal herb, but in some places like southern parts of US the grass grows in wild. It is popular among people for its many healing properties besides acting as a flavoring agent.

Is it Safe to Have Lemongrass When Pregnant?

Being cautious of your diet when pregnant is a fact that goes without saying. Though tea as a beverage is safe during pregnancy, you must always consult a doctor before consuming any kind of herbal tea; lemongrass being one of them. Lemongrass has several medicinal benefits and is of therapeutic value to the ones who consume it. However, during pregnancy consumption of lemongrass may have a negative impact on your health and the unborn baby.

Lemongrass in concentrated form can harm you and the fetus. It is used in concentrated form when consumed as a flavoring agent in tea or other supplements. Lemongrass is not the same as lemon which is safe for pregnant women. Though lemongrass possesses the citrus flavor of lemon, it has many properties that make it different from lemon and hence its use varies accordingly.

Only the concentrated form of lemongrass is unsafe for you during pregnancy. Thai and Vietnamese cooking use small amounts of lemongrass as a flavoring agent. This is still safe for you and will not pose any problems for you or your unborn baby.

Benefits of Lemongrass

Lemongrass has many benefits and works wonders for the human body. Some of the common benefits are as below

• Lemongrass is a source of many essential elements vital for pregnancy. It is a good source of Folic acid, Vitamin A and C, Zinc, Potassium, Copper, Calcium, Magnesium, and Manganese.
• Lemongrass tea is an ideal drink for digestive health. Its antimicrobial properties help treat problems like indigestion, diarrhea, stomach spasms, constipation, bloating, and vomiting. Most of these problems are common during pregnancy.
• Lemongrass can help women during their menstrual cycle as it helps to improve the flow and reduces stomach cramps during periods.
• Lemongrass possesses anti-cholesterol properties that help to reduce the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. Daily consumption of lemongrass can help control the level of cholesterol in your body, reducing the chances of heart ailments.
• This herb is also known for its cleansing properties and improving blood circulation, which is important for better health.
• Antibacterial and antifungal properties of Lemongrass help to cope with flu symptoms. Presence of Vitamin C, makes it an ideal herb to treat colds and boost immunity.
• Lemongrass is also used as a medicinal herb in treatments against cancer. The presence of citral in lemongrass causes apoptosis in cancer cells without damaging the healthy ones.
• This herb can also provide relief in conditions such as arthritis and joint pains.
  Lemongrass oil has antimicrobial properties. The oil also helps in relaxing muscle strain, migraines, menstrual cramps etc.

[Read : Eating Curry Leaves During Pregnancy]

Side Effects of Lemongrass on Pregnant Women

Though Lemongrass has umpteen benefits, it may pose a dangerous threat to pregnant women. According to research done by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre, the presence of the compounds Citral and Myrcene can cause birth defects. The research was carried out on rats, but the results were compelling enough to make them off-limits for pregnant women.

The side effects of lemongrass on pregnant women include:

• The apoptotic properties of Lemongrass can interfere with the growth of the unborn child.
• Lemongrass can trigger allergies like itchy skin rashes, breathing difficulties, and throat swelling.
• Lemongrass is known to improve the menstrual flow and hence can pose a threat to pregnant women as it may trigger miscarriage.
• Regular consumption of lemongrass can reduce blood sugar levels abruptly in the case of pregnant women.

Alternatives to the Lemongrass Tea During Pregnancy

We already know that concentrated lemongrass is unsafe for pregnancy and it is a good idea to avoid lemongrass tea when you are pregnant. But if you love your herbal teas and are on a mission to avoid caffeine during pregnancy, you may want to know what safe alternatives you have.

We list a few herbal teas that are safe for you during pregnancy.

1. Ginger Tea

In India, ginger tea is widely recommended for most age groups and has excellent medicinal and feel-good properties. Whether you have a sore throat or are suffering from indigestion, a ginger tea concoction is the best solution. It doesn’t carry any side effects which means that you can safely have it during pregnancy.

It is an excellent alternative to lemongrass tea when you are craving something warm and soothing. Struggling with nausea and morning sickness? There is nothing better than a cup of ginger tea to reduce nausea and discomfort. Ginger boosts your immunity too, which is an added bonus when you are pregnant.

2. Lemon Tea

The citrus in lemons is good for you when pregnant. Vitamin C boosts immunity, keeps allergies at bay, and is especially helpful when you are struggling with morning sickness. However, you must have this tea in moderation and limit sugar intake along with your tea. Also, during pregnancy, you can shift to decaffeinated teas to reduce your caffeine intake. You can brew a cup of light decaffeinated tea and add a squeeze of lemon, and your lemon tea is ready.

3. Lemon Juice

Want to avoid tea totally and replace it with something healthy? Shifting to lemon juice is an excellent option. You are avoiding caffeine altogether, and having a beverage that is healthy for you. Trying out different infused and natural flavored water is also another option when you are pregnant.

Remember to exercise moderation with any tea you have during pregnancy. Too much of anything can be too bad and moderation is the key to a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Is Lemongrass Oil Safe For Pregnant Women?

Lemongrass oil is an essential oil which means that it contains concentrated levels of lemongrass compounds. We have already discussed that concentrated lemongrass is unsafe for pregnant women as it can trigger miscarriage and cause other pregnancy complications.

You must stay away from this oil during the first trimester as most essential oils carry a risk of miscarriage. Mild external application during the second and third trimesters is still fine, but ingesting is a complete no-no. Our advice? Better be safe than sorry and stay away from lemongrass oil to avoid unnecessary pregnancy complications. You can always talk to your doctor for further clarity.

The Risk Associated With Lemongrass Oil During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a period when you can suddenly develop new allergies to substances that previously suited you perfectly. Essential oils can, sometimes, trigger allergic reactions when you are pregnant. Some risks associated with lemongrass oil during pregnancy are:

• Concentrated lemongrass oil can induce miscarriage, especially during the first trimester.
• Lemongrass essential oil has a risk of crossing the placenta, reaching your unborn baby, and causing effects on the baby.
• Scientific research on the effects of lemongrass during pregnancy is limited and hence it is good to be on the safe side and stay away from this oil.

Tips For Using Lemongrass During Pregnancy

If you like the aroma of lemongrass and it helps with your morning sickness, you can apply a few drops to a cotton ball or a piece of cloth and smell it to reduce the feelings of nausea and sickness. Following are some tips for using lemongrass during pregnancy.

• Stay away from concentrated lemongrass forms such as oils when pregnant.
• A bit of external application is fine, but do not ingest it.
• Stay away from all forms of lemongrass during the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Lemongrass added to food as a flavoring is safe during all stages of pregnancy since very small quantities are added when cooking.
• During the second and third trimesters, external application of lemongrass may be safe. But always consult your doctor to make sure this is safe for you.

Though you must stay away from concentrated lemongrass oil during pregnancy, diluted lemongrass oil can help relieve muscle strain, pains, and headaches. You can dilute it by adding carrier oils like basil, rose, sandalwood, Fennel, or Lavender. Try a patch test on your arm before trying it out to make sure you are not allergic.

The effects of many herbs-oils and supplements are still being studied and their effects on pregnancy are largely unknown. It is best to consult your doctor before you opt for any new additions to your diet or consume any herb, as they may not react in the same manner for all especially in the case of pregnant women. If you have anything more to share with us on this, do feel free to put the views in the comment box below.

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FAQ’s

1. Can Lemon Grass Lead to Miscarriage?

In some cases, it might. It can cause stillbirth. It interferes with the development of the fetus, thus affecting the pregnancy.

2. Can Using Lemon Grass at Home Cause Headaches During Pregnancy?

It depends on you. Each person reacts differently to different smells. Especially during pregnancy.

3. Can Consuming Lemon Grass During Pregnancy Affect the Unborn Child?

Yes, it can. It can hinder cell multiplication in the baby. This is why you should avoid it.

4. Should I Avoid Thai Food During Pregnancy Because of Lemon Grass?

No, that’s not needed. Small quantities of lemongrass are ok. Ensure you don’t overdo it.

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