Tea

[Friendlee]

Can anyone recommend a relaxing tea that is safe while nursing? I'd love to have something soothing just before bedtime, but I don't know which herbs are safe. I'd love to drink something that also has some health benefits as well as an added bonus, but I'm mostly interested in something that'll untangle my nerves from the day's stress.

I used to take L-theanine capsules sometimes or I'd drink Sleepytime Extra (with valerian root)...I really dislike straight valerian tea. I don't know which herbs are safe for breastfeeding though.

[PatioGardener]

There are some pretty good books on herbal remedies and nursing (the Nursing Mother's Herbal (think that name is right) is one), but a quick glance at Kellymom's list may help you out too:
http://kellymom.com/herbal/index.html

[MindfulBirth]

Just want to add that if you are taking any other medications, you may want to avoid teas with Fenugreek (such as Mothers Milk Tea, Milk Maid Tea, etc.), as it can interfere with the absorption of those other medications.

[sunnygir1]

Catnip and Chamomile are both gentle teas that are recommended for babies with tummy trouble. They are great for relaxing mamas and babies too. Oatstraw is another great one.

[Chamomile Girl]

Originally Posted by sunnygir1

Catnip and Chamomile are both gentle teas that are recommended for babies with tummy trouble. They are great for relaxing mamas and babies too. Oatstraw is another great one.

I'm a big fan of the Chamomile . Hops is another. Lavender. You can make a really yummy tea with peppermint, chamomile and fennel.

[PatioGardener]

If you have a supply issue then it is wise to avoid peppermint (a favourite of mine too!)

[sunnygir1]

Mmm! Fennel and oatstraw, or fennel and raspberry leaf, or fennel and ginger.

I don't like licorice tea, so I was afraid I would hate fennel tea, but it tastes really good.

[averlee]

Definitely chamomile. Catnip also, which I prefer to other mints because it's so mild in flavor.

[tinybutterfly]

I was going to recommend chamomile, too.

[mamadelbosque]

I love herbal essences' various zinger teas (raspberry, lemon, red, wild berry, etc) as well as roastaroma (though that can be hard to find, its a delicious coffee-alternative type tea, wonderful with honey/sugar & milk!!)