haste, dong quai and red clover exert hormonal/phytoestrogen activity. Avoid in pregnancy and breastmilk. Get medical advice if you are or have been diagnosed with hormone-sensitive conditions (such as breast, uterine and / or ovarian cancers; endometriasis, fibroids) or trying to conceive or taking hormonal contraceptives / HRT.
Bleeding and surgery: The bleeding tendency may be increased by puer d'Arco and dong quai; red clover may have this effect as well. Caution with ANCs (warfarin, DOACs, aspirin, clopidogrel) or bleeding disorders. Start 1 to 2 weeks before surgery unless your physician says otherwise.
Liver and general tolerance: Gastrointestinal upset and rare liver problems have been reported with high-dose or prolonged pau d'Arco use. Take food-like amounts only from reputable suppliers & avoid long-term continuous use without professional supervision. Stop and see your physician if you have dark urine, unusual fatigue, right-upper abdominal pain, jaundice or nausea.
Blood pressure & blood sugar.
Blood pressure and red clover may increase with dong quai and chaste, and may alter glucose regulation in some people. Watch for interactions with antihypertensive or diabetes medicines.
Gallbladder / reflux / gut sensitivity: Some gallstones or bile duct obstruction may stimulate bile flow; avoid or consult with a doctor. All herbal teas can aggravate reflux if taken very strong or on an empty stomach - brew lighter & take with food if sensitive.
Allergies
Red clover is in the Fabaceae (legume) family; avoid if you have legume allergies. Avoid rash, itching, swelling or breathing changes.
Medicines and timing: Tanning agents and mucilage may alter absorption if you separate this tea at least 2 hours before taking medicines and mineral/iron supplement. Talk about use with your clinician if you take dopamine-related medicines (Vitex may affect dopaminergic pathways).
Who should avoid: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, major liver or kidney disease, active peptic ulcer or any person advised by their clinician to avoid phytoestrogens or anticoagulants.
