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

Thyme

July 2, 2015 (Very Low Risk)

On latest update no relevant data related to breastfeeding were found. A widely used herb as condiment in food preparation and as infusion tea. Because a lack of toxicity when used at appropriate dose, infrequent or moderate use may be compatible while breastfeeding.

Shrub. Florid summits are used. Contains essential oil, (Thymol, Carvone) flavonoids, tannins, terpenes, Phytoestrogens and Phytogestagens.

Essential oil is irritant. Although Phytoestrogens are present in low amount, it is known that Estrogens can decrease milk production.

Unproven effects: expectorant, anti-spasmodic. (Not clinically tested)

Indications by European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Commission E of German Ministry of Health: dry cough, bronchitis.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Thyme since it is relatively safe.

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.

Synonyms

  • Common Thyme
  • Garden thyme
  • Thymi herba

Writings

  • Thymus vulgaris (Latin, botanical name)
  • Thymus zygis (Latin, botanical name)
  • Тимьян Обыкновенный (Cyrillic)

References

  1. EMA-Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC) Tomillo Herbal monograph 2013 Full text (in our servers)
  2. 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)
  3. Zaffani S, Cuzzolin L, Benoni G. Herbal products: behaviors and beliefs among Italian women. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf. 2006Abstract
  4. 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)
  5. Zava DT, Dollbaum CM, Blen M. Estrogen and progestin bioactivity of foods, herbs, and spices. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 1998Abstract