Herbal teas are not as innocent as they are thought to be

Dietitian Merve Sena Nazlı stated that herbal teas, which are rich in phytochemical components, vitamins, and minerals, have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries, saying, "As with every food group, excessive consumption of herbal teas can cause negative effects such as impairment in liver-kidney functions, hypo/hypertension, and heart palpitations."

Regarding herbal teas, which are a remedy for many ailments, Dietitian Merve Sena Nazlı from the Nutrition and Diet Department of Medicana Konya Hospital reminded of the proverb "Everything in moderation is good, too much is harmful," and said that herbal teas, which are rich in phytochemical components, vitamins, and minerals, have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries.

Dietitian Merve Sena Nazlı said, "As with every food group, excessive consumption of herbal teas can cause negative effects such as impairment in liver-kidney functions, hypo/hypertension, and heart palpitations."

CHRONIC ILLNESS DETAIL

Noting that those with chronic illnesses and those who have to use medication must be careful because herbal teas can interact with drugs, Nazlı pointed out that kidney-liver patients, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and especially children should not consume herbal teas unconsciously.

Explaining in which situations herbal teas can be used with their pros and cons, Nazlı said, "Green tea helps with weight loss and edema removal by increasing metabolic rate thanks to the EGCG epigallocatechin gallate it contains. 

Due to its antioxidant effect, it strengthens the immune system and protects against cancer. It lowers cholesterol levels. Since it contains caffeine, people with hypertension and palpitations should use it carefully. Rosehip tea, on the other hand, helps strengthen the immune system with its high vitamin C content. It reduces pain in rheumatic diseases and accelerates the recovery process in flu and colds. It lowers LDL cholesterol. 

It is good for urinary tract infections. Excessive consumption can lead to allergic reactions. Chamomile tea, which is more preferred for stress, anxiety, and sleep problems, also helps with menstrual pain, strengthening the immune system, and reducing stomach ailments.

A study shows that short-term chamomile tea intake can have strong beneficial effects on glycemic control and antioxidant status in Type 2 diabetic patients. While chamomile tea is good for cramps, it can also cause miscarriage by relaxing the uterus as it relaxes muscles.

Since chamomile tea can interact with blood thinners, aspirin, sedatives, and ibuprofen-group drugs, a specialist should be consulted before consumption. In addition, food supplements such as ginkgo biloba and saw palmetto should not be used together with chamomile," she said.

CAN CAUSE PERMANENT DAMAGE

Stating that sage, also known as a natural antibiotic, helps flush out toxins, Nazlı said, "Pregnant women should not use it because it can lead to bleeding, and hypertension patients and children should not use it due to its blood pressure-raising effect. It protects against cancer, strengthens the immune system, acts as a diuretic, relieves stomach-intestinal problems, and cleanses the liver. 

Senna tea, which is preferred in the treatment of constipation, can cause permanent damage and laziness in the intestines when used for a long time. In the long run, it can even cause tumors. It should not be used by people with inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's or ulcerative colitis. It is especially found in herbal teas sold as mixtures. Those who use medication continuously should be careful because it can interact with drugs. 

Fennel tea is perfect for those who experience bloating and indigestion after meals. It also increases breast milk and relieves gas problems in babies. Due to its muscle-relaxant effect, it can reduce menstrual and headaches. Since it can show estrogenic effects, it should not be consumed by people with breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer," she said.