Registered dietitians explain how certain herbal teas might not interact well with some over-the-counter and prescription medications.
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Whether iced or hot, there’s something nostalgic and comforting about sharing a conversation over a cup of tea. For thousands of years, herbal teas have been used for medicinal purposes, offering a variety of flavors with unique health benefits. However, if you have a health condition that requires medication, it’s important to be aware that some herbal teas can interfere with both prescription and nonprescription drugs.
Read on to discover which teas can affect your medication and how you can safely enjoy herbal teas.
What Are Herbal Teas?
Herbal teas differ from “true teas” such as black, oolong, green, and white varieties, which are all made from the Camellia sinensis (tea plant). Herbal teas, on the other hand, are crafted from a variety of plants and can be prepared using their leaves, stems, roots, fruits, buds, and flowers.
Additionally, herbal teas are caffeine-free, whereas true teas contain caffeine, explains Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, a dietitian based in Washington, D.C. Herbal teas also tend to have a milder or sweeter taste compared to the often bitter flavors of true tea.
You’ll find a wide array of herbal teas on grocery store shelves, including flavors like apple cinnamon, chamomile, mint, chai, ginger turmeric, elderberry, tulsi, lemon, and rooibos red tea. “Most herbal teas are generally safe when consumed in moderation and can be part of a complete and nutrient-dense diet,” says Lena Bakovic, a registered dietitian nutritionist at Top Nutrition Coaching.
However, many herbal tea labels include a disclaimer recommending that individuals consult their medical provider if they have a health condition or are taking medication. This is sound advice, particularly if you’re enjoying the following five teas.
5 Herbal Teas That Can Affect Your Medication
1. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herb traditionally used to reduce stress, enhance well-being, alleviate anxiety, and improve sleep quality and duration. Ashwagandha is often included in various herbal tea formulations aimed at promoting stress reduction and inducing a calming effect.
Research indicates that taking 500 to 600 milligrams of ashwagandha extract daily may interact with several types of medications, including those for thyroid issues, diabetes, high blood pressure, immunosuppressants, and sedatives. Although the amount of ashwagandha in tea is likely lower, if you take any of these medications and regularly consume ashwagandha tea, it’s important to consult your doctor to ensure it is safe for you.
2. Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a plant known for its rich antioxidant content, particularly flavonoids, which may help dilate blood vessels and improve circulation. However, this can be problematic for some individuals. “Ginkgo biloba tea can slow down blood clotting, which can interact with blood thinner medications and increase the risk of bleeding when combined with NSAID medications like ibuprofen,” explains Lena Bakovic. Therefore, people with a known bleeding risk should be cautious when using ginkgo biloba products.
3 St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort, derived from the flowering tops of Hypericum perforatum, has been studied for its potential to treat symptoms of depression, aid in wound healing, manage ADHD, and alleviate menopausal symptoms. However, substantial evidence suggests that St. John’s wort can interfere with many types of medications, reducing their effectiveness.
Some of the potential interactions include: “St. John’s wort can affect selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) by increasing serotonin levels, reduce the efficacy of birth control medications by altering their metabolism, and complicate the use of blood thinners by increasing the risk of blood clotting,” explains Caroline Thomason.
4 Goldenseal
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), also known as yellow root, has been traditionally used to treat colds, respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), ulcers, and digestive issues such as diarrhea and constipation. However, goldenseal may interfere with certain diabetes medications, like metformin, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
5 Chamomile
Chamomile tea is frequently touted as a stress-reliever and an ideal bedtime beverage. While the amounts found in teas are generally considered safe, chamomile can potentially interact with medications such as warfarin (a blood thinner) and cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant used after organ transplants).
Additionally, those with diabetes should take precautions, says Lena Bakovic. “If a person with diabetes chooses to drink chamomile tea regularly, it is recommended that they closely monitor their blood sugar levels for potential lowering effects,” she advises.
Tips for Including Herbal Teas in a Healthy Diet
Drinking tea is an excellent way to stay hydrated, especially if you find plain water unappealing. “Herbal teas can be a great addition to a healthy diet, as they contain antioxidants and nutrients that you might not get otherwise,” says Caroline Thomason. “Since herbal tea is caffeine-free, you can enjoy it any time of the day, and it tastes great whether served hot or cold,” she adds. Brew a large batch of herbal tea and store it in the refrigerator for a refreshing beverage option. As long as it’s safe for you, consider trying these recipes: Herbal Chamomile Health Tonic, Lavender-Chamomile Herbal Tea, or Hibiscus-Pomegranate Iced Tea.
The Bottom Line
Including herbal teas in a balanced diet is beneficial for hydration and antioxidant intake. These teas are caffeine-free and come in a range of flavors. However, certain herbal teas like ashwagandha and ginkgo biloba can interact with medications depending on consumption amount and type. If you’re uncertain about potential interactions or consume herbal tea regularly, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider to ensure it doesn’t affect your medication effectiveness.
FAQ on 5 Herbal Teas That Can Affect Your Medication, According to Dietitians
Q1: What are herbal teas?
Herbal teas are beverages made from various plants, including leaves, stems, roots, flowers, and fruits, steeped in hot water to extract their flavors and beneficial properties. Unlike true teas (such as black or green tea), herbal teas do not contain leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant and are typically caffeine-free.
Q2: How do herbal teas interact with medications?
Certain herbal teas contain compounds that can interact with medications, affecting their effectiveness or causing adverse effects. For example, herbs like St. John’s wort can interfere with antidepressants, while ginkgo biloba may affect blood thinners. These interactions can vary depending on the type and dosage of both the herbal tea and the medication.
Q3: Which herbal teas should I be cautious about if I’m taking medications?
According to dietitians, herbal teas such as St. John’s wort, ginkgo biloba, ashwagandha, chamomile, and goldenseal have been identified to potentially interact with medications. It’s crucial to discuss with your healthcare provider if you are regularly consuming these herbal teas and are on prescribed medications.
Q4: How can I safely enjoy herbal teas if I’m on medication?
To safely enjoy herbal teas while taking medications, consider the following:
- Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist to understand potential interactions.
- Read labels carefully and look for any warnings or recommendations regarding medication interactions.
- Monitor your health closely for any unexpected changes or side effects when introducing herbal teas into your routine.
Q5: Can herbal teas be part of a healthy diet despite potential interactions?
Yes, herbal teas can still be part of a healthy diet when consumed mindfully and with awareness of potential interactions. They provide hydration, antioxidants, and unique flavors that can complement a balanced eating plan. However, moderation and caution are key, especially if you have specific health conditions or are taking medications.
Q6: Are there alternative herbal teas that are generally safe for consumption with medications?
Yes, there are many herbal teas that are considered safe for consumption without significant interactions with medications. Examples include peppermint tea, ginger tea, and rooibos tea. Always check with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about specific herbal teas and their compatibility with your medications.
These FAQs provide insights into understanding the interactions between herbal teas and medications, emphasizing the importance of informed decisions and professional guidance when incorporating them into your daily routine.