Is Ginseng compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Ginseng?

Ginseng

June 10, 2016 (Low Risk)

Roots of shrub are used. It contains saponins (ginsenosides).

Attributed properties that are not based on proven clinical results are: stimulant of CNS, inductor of hypoglycemia and hypolipidemia, agonistic action on estrogen secretion.

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

It is a widely used plant on many cultures and countries for medical purposes, even during pregnancy and breastfeeding with no side-effects reported.

Based on its low toxicity, an occasional and moderate use is not regarded as risky while breastfeeding.

The excessive use of estrogenic agonists may decrease milk production.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Ginseng.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Writings

  • Panax ginseng (Latin, botanical name)
  • Panax notoginseng (Latin, botanical name)
  • Panax quinquefolius (Latin, botanical name)
  • Τζίνσενγκ (Greek)
  • Женьшень (Cyrillic)
  • Корень Жизни (Cyrillic)

References

  1. Amer MR, Cipriano GC, Venci JV, Gandhi MA. Safety of Popular Herbal Supplements in Lactating Women. J Hum Lact. 2015Abstract
  2. The Royal Women’s Hospital Victoria Australia. Herbal and Traditional Medicines in Breasfeeding. Fact Sheet. 2013 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  3. Sim TF, Sherriff J, Hattingh HL, Parsons R, Tee LB. The use of herbal medicines during breastfeeding: a population-based survey in Western Australia. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  4. Sachs HC; Committee On Drugs. The transfer of drugs and therapeutics into human breast milk: an update on selected topics. Pediatrics. 2013Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  5. Lee NH, Son CG. Systematic review of randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of ginseng. J Acupunct Meridian Stud. 2011Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  6. Amir LH, Pirotta MV, Raval M. Breastfeeding--evidence based guidelines for the use of medicines. Aust Fam Physician. 2011Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  7. WHO. World Health Organization. WHO monographs on medicinal plants commonly used in the Newly Independent States (NIS). WHO monographs. 2010 Full text (in our servers)
  8. WHO. World Health Organization. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants. Volume 4. WHO monographs. 2009 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  9. Holst L, Nordeng H, Haavik S. Use of herbal drugs during early pregnancy in relation to maternal characteristics and pregnancy outcome. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf. 2008Abstract
  10. Seely D, Dugoua JJ, Perri D, Mills E, Koren G. Safety and efficacy of panax ginseng during pregnancy and lactation. Can J Clin Pharmacol. 2008Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  11. Tesch BJ. Herbs commonly used by women: an evidence-based review. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2003Abstract
  12. Coon JT, Ernst E. Panax ginseng: a systematic review of adverse effects and drug interactions. Drug Saf. 2002Abstract
  13. Vogler BK, Pittler MH, Ernst E. The efficacy of ginseng. A systematic review of randomised clinical trials. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1999Abstract
  14. WHO. World Health Organization. Geneva. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants. Volume I. WHO monographs 1999 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  15. Koren G, Randor S, Martin S, Danneman D. Maternal ginseng use associated with neonatal androgenization. JAMA. 1990Abstract
  16. Wong HB. Effects of herbs and drugs during pregnancy and lactation. J Singapore Paediatr Soc. 1979Abstract