Is It Safe To Take Echinacea When Breastfeeding?

Taking echinacea during lactation is considered safe only when recommended by an expert.

Reviewed by Charmaine Dominguez, RDN Charmaine Dominguez Charmaine DominguezRDN MomJunction on Facebook Specialty: Dietitian nutritionistExperience: 7 years
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Echinacea While Breastfeeding

Image: iStock

Echinacea is the name of a species of flowering plant belonging to the daisy group and is known to have medicinal value (1). If you plan to use Echinacea while breastfeeding, read the post for more information. The leaves and roots of the Echinacea plants are used for medicinal purposes as plant-based remedies. It is a common herbal ingredient in cold, flu, skin infections, and inflammation medicines. Read on for more information on Echinacea, its uses, benefits, safety during breastfeeding, and side effects.

In This Article

Is It Safe To Have Echinacea While Breastfeeding?

There is little scientific data about the safety and efficacy of echinacea during lactation. Yet, its use under expert guidance in recommended doses is not considered harmful while nursing (2). There is limited evidence to suggest that compounds found in echinacea pass into or alter breast milk composition.

Echinacea is available as traditional and natural medicine products like herbal tea, juice, extracts, capsules, tablets, and dietary botanical supplements. If you want to use any of these echinacea preparations or products while nursing, then you should do so only after consultation with an expert in herbal medicine. They can guide you about the safe mode of use and appropriate dosage while nursing (3).

protip_icon Quick fact
Three species of echinacea are commonly used for their medicinal benefits: Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea (15). Since different products may use various parts of these plants in differing proportions, their effects can vary.

Does Echinacea Decrease Milk Supply?

No evidence suggests that echinacea decreases breast milk production

Image: Shutterstock

There is no evidence to suggest that echinacea decreases breast milk production. If you are exploring herbs for breastfeeding, including echinacea, to manage (decrease or increase) breast milk production, then seek the advice of a complementary medicine expert.

Possible Uses Of Echinacea

Echinacea is often used for lactation-related issues, such as mastitisiA painful infection of the breast tissue that causes inflammation, swelling, and redness. , in traditional medicine. Research shows that the ethanolic extract of echinacea is rich in phytochemicals and contains antioxidantiMan-made or natural substances that may prevent or slow down cell damage caused due to harmful molecules called free radicals. , and antifungal effects., ketoalkenesiOrganic compounds with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. , caffeic acidiAn organic substance found in coffee, fruits, and vegetables, it may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. derivatives, polysaccharides, glycoproteinsiProteins that are essential for a variety of physiological mechanisms, such as immunity. , and caftaric acidiA phenolic acid known to have anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-obesity effects. , which are responsible for its medicinal properties (1). These bioactive compounds exhibit immunomodulatoryiA substance that stimulates or suppresses the immune system. , antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties (4). Confirming these claims needs more scientific research.

Echinacea is used in herbal treatment of the following conditions.

  1. Infections: Traditional medicine supports the use of echinacea tincture or extract to treat upper respiratory infections, cough, and common cold and flu. Clinical research shows that Echinacea purpurea might reduce the duration and severity of symptoms when consumed at the first signs of a cold (5). However, more research is needed to establish appropriate use among nursing mothers.
  2. Immune health: Echinacea purpurea has been shown by numerous research studies to provide immune system support in combating infections (6) (7). Even traditional medicine suggests using echinacea with a well-balanced diet to boost overall immunity. However, there are no conclusive studies on this effect.
  3. Oxidative stress: Bioactive compounds in echinacea, such as cichoric acid and alkamidesiOrganic compounds in plants known for their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal effects. , exhibit antioxidant properties (3) (8). Reduced oxidative stress may be helpful for lactating mothers.

    Using eschinacea while pregnant reduces oxidative stress

    Image: Shutterstock

  4. Anti-inflammatory functions: Some animal studies showed that the use of echinacea could help reduce excess inflammation (9). However, there are no studies to prove these effects in humans, especially in lactating women.
  5. Skin issues: Some research studies show that echinacea possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that could help suppress the growth of Propionibacterium, a common cause of acne (10). Echinacea purpurea cream and gel used in a study were found effective in improving skin hydration and reducing wrinkles (11).

The therapeutic effects of echinacea have been documented to be helpful in a few other health conditions, such as gingivitisiA common and mild gum disease characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding. , canker sores, wound healing, vaginitisiVaginal inflammation characterized by pain, itchiness, or discharge. and nipple soreness (12).

Meggan, a mum and a writer, chose to see a naturopath to find a way to treat the thrush. She says, ‘’My naturopath was super helpful. She was great. She mixed me up with an herbal cocktail of echinacea, calendula, poke root, and horopito and told me to take 4ml of the stuff five times a day (ⅰ).’’ Meggan also made considerable changes to her diet and took probiotics, as recommended by the naturopath.

Possible Side Effects Of Echinacea While Breastfeeding

Echinacea products are relatively well-tolerated. However, they may exhibit side effects in some cases. The oral or topical use of echinacea while breastfeeding may cause the following side effects (13).

  1. Gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation and diarrhea
  2. Skin rash
  3. Allergic reactions, such as nausea, swelling, hives, and shortness of breath

    Using echinacea while breastfeeding can trigger allergic reactions

    Image: Shutterstock

These symptoms are majorly observed in the cases of a cross-reaction, especially with other flowers from the Asteraceae family (14). Thus, if you or your breastfeeding baby are allergic to flowers, such as daisies, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and ragweed, then avoid using echinacea and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can echinacea interact with any medications I’m taking while breastfeeding?

Echinacea may interact with certain medications, including immunosuppressants, econazole, and some medicines used to treat autoimmune disorders (15). Speaking with a healthcare provider before taking echinacea while breastfeeding is important.

2. Can echinacea help with urinary tract infections while breastfeeding?

There is limited evidence to support the use of echinacea for urinary tract infections. However, you may consider having it since it boosts immune function (15).

3. Can echinacea help with ear infections while breastfeeding?

Echinacea may be beneficial in treating ear infections when lactating. It is recommended to manage ear infections such as otitis media (15). You may have this herb while also continuing with doctor-prescribed treatment.

4. Can echinacea help with cold sores while breastfeeding?

Echinacea may be effective in preventing cold sores while breastfeeding. According to a study, the intake of echinacea extract before infection may have an antiviral effect on the occurrence of recurring cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) (15).

Echinacea while breastfeeding should be consumed under the guidance of an alternate medicine expert to treat lactation-related issues. This is prescribed for infections, inflammations, oxidative stress, and skin issues in alternative medicine. Echinacea is also used to boost immunity in herbal medicine. Although there is no evidence of echinacea decreasing breast milk production, you may take it after consulting with an expert, considering its effects, including allergies and gastrointestinal problems. Always ensure that the herbal medicines do not contain ingredients that may impact supplements or other medications and try to buy from trusted sources.

Infographic: Possible Benefits Of Echinacea When Breastfeeding

Echinacea is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants generally used for medicinal purposes. Since there is a lack of scientific backing to its potential uses, consuming it only after taking an expert’s advice while breastfeeding is ideal. Nevertheless, Echinacea might aid in managing a few medical conditions and have health-benefiting properties, as described in this infographic.

potential benefits of echincea for the nursing mother (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Echinacea contains bioactive compounds that have immunomodulatory, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • It is commonly used in the treatment of lactation-related conditions such as mastitis.
  • Before using echinacea in any form, it is important to consult a healthcare practitioner as studies on its safety and efficacy are limited.
  • Echinacea can be used to combat infections such as colds, coughs, and the flu, as well as boosting immunity and reducing oxidative stress.
  • However, using echinacea while breastfeeding can have side effects such as allergic reactions, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
  • If someone is allergic to flowers such as daisy, chrysanthemum, and marigold, they should avoid using echinacea while breastfeeding.


Echinacea is a powerful herb that can help support your immune system. Learn if it’s right for you in this video!

Personal Experience: Source

MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.

ⅰ. How I Conquered The Dreaded Nipple Thrush.
https://megganmamma.wordpress.com/2013/03/03/how-i-conquered-the-dreaded-nipple-thrush/

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

1. Azadeh Manayi et al., Echinacea purpurea: Pharmacology, phytochemistry and analysis methods; NCBI
2. Herbal Medicines in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding; The Royal Women’s Hospital
3. Marwa Amer et al., Safety of Popular Herbal Supplements in Lactating Women; Reaserachgate
4. Aneta Lewicka et al., Supplementation of Plants with Immunomodulatory Properties during Pregnancy and Lactation—Maternal and Offspring Health Effects; NCBI
5. Richard Nahas and Agneta Balla; Complementary and alternative medicine for prevention and treatment of the common cold; NCBI
6. Zili Zhai et al., Enhancement of Innate and Adaptive Immune Functions by Multiple Echinacea Species; NCBI
7. Hyung-Ran Kim et al., Immune Enhancing Effects of Echinacea Purpurea Root Extract by Reducing Regulatory T Cell Number and Function; NCBI
8. Line Thygesen et al., Antioxidant activity of cichoric acid and alkamides from Echinacea purpurea, alone and in combination; Science Direct
9. Qian Liu et al., Chicoric Acid Supplementation Prevents Systemic Inflammation-Induced Memory Impairment and Amyloidogenesis via Inhibition of NF-κB; NCBI
10. M Sharma et al., The Potential Use of Echinacea in Acne: Control of Propionibacterium Acnes Growth and Inflammation; NCBI
11. S Yotsawimonwat et al., Skin Improvement and Stability of Echinacea Purpurea Dermatological Formulations; NCBI
12. Echinacea; Kaiserpermanente
13. Echinacea; Drugs and Lactation Database; NCBI
14. M.B. Fasano; Allergenic Cross-Reactivity between Echinacea and Ragweed; The Journal of Allergy And Clinical Immunology
15. Echinacea; Mount Sinai

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Charmaine Dominguez
Charmaine DominguezRD
Charmaine Dominguez is a plant-based online dietitian nutritionist with seven years of experience. She has her own online nutrition practice. Charmaine is currently living in LA, California in the US, and pursuing Masters of Public Health at California State University, Long Beach.

Read full bio of Charmaine Dominguez
Swati Patwal
Swati PatwalM.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA
Swati Patwal is a clinical nutritionist, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a toddler mom with more than a decade of experience in diverse fields of nutrition. She started her career as a CSR project coordinator for a healthy eating and active lifestyle project catering to school children.

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Rohit Garoo
Rohit GarooBSc, MBA
Rohit Garoo is a writer-turned-editor with over 9 years of experience in content writing, editing, and content marketing. He did his bachelors in Science at St. Xavier's College, Hyderabad, and masters in Business Administration at Osmania University.

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Anindita Ghatak
Anindita GhatakB.Tech
Anindita Ghatak holds a B.Tech degree in Biotechnology from Amity University, Kolkata. During the course of her studies, she has worked on different research projects in the fields of Microbiology and Bioinformatics. Anindita has over three years of experience writing medical articles for journals.

Read full bio of Anindita Ghatak