My girlfriend is having a baby shower next weekend and wants to throw an ONO tea party. She is a huge fan of ONO rooibos teas and asked if she could still drink tea while she’s pregnant. The general agreement is pregnant women and those trying to conceive should avoid consuming large quantities of caffeine. Small amounts of caffeine are ok but it is advantageous to cut out as much caffeine as possible when you’re pregnant. Pregnant women metabolize caffeine slower than other adults. The caffeine can also enter the bloodstream of the baby, quickening the heartbeat and possibly also impairing development. Therefore, coffee, soda, some medications, and teas coming from the plant camellia sinensis (black, oolong, green, white) teas should be avoided while pregnant. Fortunately there is a delicious caffeine free alternative that has been shown to ease many symptoms that come along with pregnancy - Rooibos “red” tea. It is known to be a safe caffeine free alternative for both pregnant, lactating women, and children of all ages. This is because it contains no caffeine right from the point when it’s harvested.

Research has shown that Rooibos tea has beneficial effects relating to pregnany, constipation, liver function, blood sugar levels, skin diseases, depression and anxiety. Rooibos may also have other stomach and indigestion benefits, possibly relieving nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. ONO Super Mom, a rooibos blend of pineapple and coconut, is great to ease nausea.  Add some fresh ginger and it makes a great morning sickness tonic. Here is my recipe:

ONO Jumbo Cup and Saucer with Super Mom

ONO Morning Sickness Tonic

2 C Super Mom

1/4 tsp honey

3 thin slices of fresh ginger

squeeze of lemon

 
Some variations of Rooibos tea that contain extra herbs such as rosemary should be avoided during pregnancy because it may cause uterine contractions. Be sure to read the label to make sure that there are no additional herbs added to Rooibos teas. Check ingredients… and always check with your doctor.