Herbal Teas
Hi,
I received a gift from a friend that included a box of herbal tea. In the tea were ingredients like
Lemon Balm Leaf, Chamomile, Star Anise, Passionflower, Ashwagandha and Valerian Root.
I stupidly drank the tea without thinking. Now I read it could interact with chemo and I'm in a real state about it and worried I've signed off on more cancer for myself.
Anyone know anything about these and if I've made a massive mistake that could intimately cost me my life? I only had those tea bags really. I feel like an idiot for not just going for water.
Thank you
Comments
Thanks Ari. Yes I went out to my oncology team and no one really had any answers. Not enough studies done! So they couldn't really settle my mind. Like you say tea infusions would be pretty weak. God I wish I had the cop on to leave it and not drink it!!
Hi Iamstrong,
I have never heard that herbal teas could be a problem. As you say, these infusions tend to be pretty weak. I doubt very much if you could have jeopardised your treatment with a few cups of herbal tea.
A herbal supplement on the other hand brings a much bigger dose and could cause a problem. All supplements should be given the OK by the oncology team.
Focus on getting through the chemo as best you can and look forward to enjoying the herbal teas when when you have finished the treatment.
Take care
Kath
Thank you all for your replies. Xxx
Hey, in tea format a lot of these are probably fairly weak in concentration. I've not heard much about any interacting with chemo, but some may amplify sedating effects of other drugs (valerian). I drank ginger tea without issue. It was as important to me to keep the liquids up when I was struggling with boring water, so I took teas and juice (not grspefruit) and diet soda, etc. I would recommend asking your team about them next time you are in. Some or all may be absolutely fine. Chemo is a strong drug that a little tea would hopefully not impact the overall effect, but you can give your self peace of mind and make sure before drinking anymore.