Is Tarragon Safe During Pregnancy? Benefits & Risks

Is Tarragon Safe to Eat When Pregnant?

Tarragon has a lovely anise-like flavor that can elevate many dishes, but is tarragon safe to eat during pregnancy? The answer is yes, you can safely eat tarragon in the small amounts typically used for cooking. 👍

Consuming large, medicinal amounts of tarragon like in teas, pills, or supplements is not recommended during pregnancy though. This is because tarragon acts as an emmenagogue, meaning it promotes blood flow in the uterus. This can potentially lead to miscarriage. 😟

According to reputable sources like the Nature Public Health Emergency Collection Journal and Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health Journal, emmenagogue herbs like tarragon are best avoided in large amounts during pregnancy.

So small culinary amounts are A-OK, but we’ll go over exact recommendations for safe tarragon consumption coming up. ✅

Can I Drink Tarragon Tea When Pregnant?

It’s best to avoid drinking tarragon tea during pregnancy. Since tea often contains concentrated or larger amounts of herbs, we can’t be sure of the exact tarragon dosage.

Consuming unknown concentrations of this herb as a tea could potentially cause uterine stimulant effects and lead to complications like miscarriage. 😔

If you’ve already had a cup of tarragon tea, try not to stress! Just avoid drinking this tea for the remainder of your pregnancy to be on the safe side.

You can still enjoy tarragon’s delicious flavor in your foods while pregnant. We’ll cover some tasty and creative ways to do that soon! 😋

How Much Tarragon is Safe in Pregnancy?

Wondering exactly how much of this herb is safe for expecting moms? Here are some general guidelines:

• 1-2 teaspoons (about 2-4 grams) of dried tarragon or 2-4 tablespoons (8-16 grams) of fresh tarragon per day is considered safe. This is about the amount you’d use to flavor dishes.
• Consuming up to 4-5 grams per day in your foods is generally not linked with uterine stimulant effects in studies.
• Doses of 10 grams or higher are where the risks increase, so it’s smart to stay below this threshold.

As always, check with your doctor about what they recommend for your specific pregnancy. But keeping tarragon intake to less than 5 grams daily from foods is a good rule of thumb. 👍

What Are the Benefits of Tarragon?

When consumed in moderation, what good can this herb do for you and baby during pregnancy? Here are some of tarragon’s evidence-based benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants – Tarragon contains antioxidants like quercetin, catechins, and other polyphenols that help fight free radicals. This promotes overall health.
• Supports digestion – The antioxidants and fiber in tarragon can aid digestion. Its carminative effect helps reduce gas and bloating as well.
• Boosts immunity – The vitamin C, A, and B-complex vitamins in tarragon support immune health for you and baby.
• Eases nausea – Tarragon has anti-nausea effects and may help relieve occasional pregnancy-related nausea.
• Promotes heart health – The vitamin K, iron, and potassium in tarragon helps circulation and blood pressure.

So when consumed wisely, tarragon offers some benefits during pregnancy! 🙌

What Are the Risks of Consuming Too Much Tarragon?

We touched on tarragon’s main risk already – in large doses, it can cause uterine contractions and lead to complications like miscarriage or preterm labor. 😟

Some other potential side effects of having too much tarragon include:

• Menstrual flow stimulation
• Stomach pain or cramping
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness

Again, these side effects are only associated with having high amounts of tarragon, like in supplements. Using small culinary amounts to add flavor is not linked with these risks.

But it’s smart to keep your intake moderate just to be safe during this special time. 🤰

According to American Pregnancy Association, tarragon contains estragole, a compound that may impact hormone levels. While small amounts used in cooking are likely safe, they recommend avoiding concentrated sources like tarragon tea or essential oil:

“Used in small amounts for flavoring, tarragon is LIKELY SAFE for pregnant women. However, medicinal amounts of this herb should be AVOIDED during pregnancy and lactation. Tarragon contains estragole, which may have hormonal effects. While this is usually only a concern for medicinal amounts, it is recommended to avoid concentrated sources of tarragon, like teas and essential oils, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.”

Finally, the International Journal of Women’s Health states tarragon may stimulate menstruation and cause uterus contraction, so should not be used in supplement form:

“Herbs including blue cohosh, pennyroyal, black cohosh, tarragon, and ginseng can stimulate menstruation and should not be used in supplemental form by pregnant women.”

Are There Any Other Herbs to Avoid in Pregnancy?

Tarragon isn’t the only herb that has some risks during pregnancy. Here are a few others that are best to avoid, especially in medicinal amounts:

• Saw Palmetto – Has hormonal effects that may impact pregnancy.
• Goldenseal – Stimulates uterine contractions.
• Dong Quai – Can induce bleeding and cause uterus to contract.
• Ephedra – Increases risk of heart problems and preterm birth.
• Licorice Root – Causes high blood pressure and early delivery.

For a more complete list of herbs to use cautiously or avoid altogether during pregnancy, consult your OB-GYN or midwife. They can provide personalized guidance. 👩‍⚕️

Tips for Using Tarragon Safely During Pregnancy

Want to enjoy tarragon’s flavor safely during the nine months? Here are some useful tips:

• Use fresh tarragon – It tends to be milder than dried. Start with a small amount.
• Add it near the end – This retains more flavor and requires less.
• Pair it with other herbs – Combine with dill, parsley, chives for a balanced flavor.
• Opt for recipes with small amounts – Avoid ones with tarragon as the star ingredient.
• Steep cautiously – If making tarragon vinegar or oil, steep for less time.
• Talk to your doctor – Get their input on safe ways to eat tarragon while expecting.

Being mindful of how much you use and how it’s prepared can let you savor this herb safely. 😊

Healthy Ways to Enjoy Tarragon’s Flavor While Pregnant

Looking for yummy ways to get a dash of tarragon’s flavor during pregnancy? Here are some healthy recipe ideas:

• Tarragon chicken salad: Combine chicken, mayo, celery, and 1 tsp dried tarragon. Enjoy in a sandwich or lettuce wrap.
• Tarragon eggs: Add 1 Tbsp minced fresh tarragon to scrambled eggs or an omelet.
• Tarragon dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, and 1 Tbsp fresh chopped tarragon. Toss with mixed greens or grilled veggies.
• Tarragon salmon: Roast salmon seasoned with salt, pepper, olive oil and 2 tsp dried tarragon.
• Tarragon potatoes: Toss diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and 2 Tbsp fresh tarragon. Roast in the oven until crispy.

Delicious! What are some of your favorite ways to use tarragon in pregnancy-safe amounts? Share your ideas below! 👇

Foods and Dishes That Go Well With Tarragon

What ingredients pair especially nicely with tarragon’s distinctive flavor? Here are some tasty options:

Proteins: chicken, fish, shellfish, beef, lamb, eggs, beans

Veggies: asparagus, carrots, cauliflower, green beans, potatoes, tomatoes, artichokes, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini

Dairy: soft cheeses like brie and goat cheese

Fruits: lemon, oranges, apples, pears, grapes, figs

Grains: rice, pasta, bread

Herbs/Spices: chives, parsley, garlic, shallots

With so many possibilities, it will be a breeze getting those recommended 1-2 teaspoons of tarragon into your pregnancy diet! 🥳

What unique tarragon combinations do you want to try during pregnancy? Tell us in the comments!

Safe Herbal Teas to Drink During Pregnancy

We know giving up tarragon tea can be a bummer, especially if you use it for nausea. But don’t worry, there are lots of delicious herbal teas considered safe during pregnancy that can provide similar benefits!

Here are some good options:

• Ginger tea – Relieves nausea, aids digestion
• Peppermint tea – Eases upset stomach, heartburn, and morning sickness
• Lemon balm tea – Reduces stress, anxiety, and nausea
• Chamomile tea – Promotes relaxation and sleep
• Raspberry leaf tea – Tones uterus and may ease labor
• Lavender tea – Encourages relaxation and sleep

Just be sure to choose high-quality, commercially packaged herbals teas. And of course, check with your doctor about any teas you’re considering during pregnancy.

What are your favorite herbals teas to sip during the nine months? Share with us! 🤗☕

When to Consult Your Doctor About Herbs in Pregnancy

We hope this guide gave you all the details on safely eating tarragon during pregnancy! 🌿

But if you ever have any questions or concerns related to consuming herbs, make sure to check with your OB-GYN or midwife. They can provide personalized advice.

It’s especially important to talk to your healthcare provider about herbs if:

• You are at increased risk for pregnancy complications
• You start experiencing concerning symptoms
• You want to take an herbal supplement
• You have a reaction after consuming an herb

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or midwife if you have any worries about herbs! Staying in touch with your provider is key for a happy, healthy pregnancy. 🤰👍

Summary

To wrap up, you can safely eat small culinary amounts of tarragon while pregnant – about 1-5 grams per day. This herb adds delicious flavor to many dishes!

But avoid drinking tarragon tea or taking medicinal doses in supplements since they may contain concerning levels of this herb.

Tarragon offers some benefits like easing nausea, aiding digestion, and providing antioxidants. But consuming too much may stimulate uterine contractions and lead to complications.

Use fresh tarragon near the end of cooking, pair with other herbs, and choose recipes with conservative amounts. Talk to your doctor about any questions on eating tarragon or herbs during your pregnancy!

FAQs