Mums-to-be should avoid eating “female ginseng”, or Dongquai. It may cause premature birth and its estrogen-like effects can affect your hormone regulation.

Mums can consume Dongquai in very small doses and with caution a few weeks after giving birth. The medicinal herb may help with hot flashes and migraines, and help relieve constipation.

If you suffer from headaches, drinking small amounts of dongquai may provide relief. Mums should regulate how much they consume as there is no sure evidence of its effect on babies when consumed via breastmilk.

Dongquai is unsuitable for babies under the age of 11 months.