Black Tea

Leaves are used. Components are xanthines like caffeine (40 mg per cup (240 ml) of black tea, 30 mg if green tea and 20 mg if white tea), theophylline, theobromine; tannins, catechins ^{(Arts 2000)}, flavonoids (quercetin) Attributed properties: Psycho-stimulant, vasoconstrictor, diuretic, bronchodilator, antioxidant. ^{(Fitoterapia.net, Mayo 2022, Lopez 2012, Serafini 1996)}

At latest update, relevant published data on excretion into breast milk were not found.

Data on excretion in the milk is available since caffeine, quercetin and epicatechin were measured into the breast milk after consumption of plant-based foods. ^{(Lu 2021, Nalewajko 2020, Calvaresi 2016)}

In some cultures it is used as a galactogogue ^{(Ali 2020)}. There is not scientific proof on its effectiveness as a galactagogue (increment of milk production) nor any anti-oxidant property was found in the milk. ^{(Kayiran 2013)}

The use of tea bags was not found to be more effective for nipple pain relief than other products for local use as watwe hot compresses, breast milk, lanolin, etc. ^{(Morland 2005, Lavergne 1997, Buchko 1994, Schrob 1992, Gans 1958)} 

Because a high caffeine consumption as that of 4 to 5 cups of tea a day (> 300 mg of caffeine) may induce nervousness and irritability in the infant.

It is recommended a minimal consumption of tea during pregnancy and breastfeeding as well as avoid certain traditional metallic teapots, since contamination with lead has frequently been found, as well as other toxins like cadmium, aluminum, magnesium and polibromodifenil éteres (PBDE), along with liver failure after consumption of green tea with slimming purposes. ^{(Schwalfenberg 2013, Patel 2013, Bolle 2011, Kim 2011, Kirchgatterer 2005, Jin 2005, Starska 1993)} 

Precautions when taking plant preparations ^{(Anderson 2017, Powers 2015, Posadzki 2013, Efferth 2011, Kopec 1999, Hsu 1995)}:

• Make sure they are from a reliable source: poisonings have occurred due to confusion of one plant with another with toxic properties ^{(Hsu 1995)}, poisonings due to containing heavy metals extracted from the soil, and food poisoning due to contamination with bacteria or fungi. ^{(Anderson 2017)}
• Do not take in excess; follow the recommendations of expert phytotherapy professionals. “Natural” products are not good in any quantity: plants contain active substances from which much of our traditional pharmacopoeia has been obtained and can cause poisoning or act as endocrine disruptors if consumed in quantity or for an exaggerated time because they contain phytoestrogens. ^{(Powers 2015, Zava 1998)}

 

See below the information of this related product:

• Caffeine (Fairly safe. Mild or unlikely adverse effects. Compatible under certain circumstances. Follow-up recommended. Read Commentary.)