Preparing for surgery isn’t just about fasting the night before — it also means being careful about what you drink in the days or weeks leading up to your operation. While tea might seem harmless, some herbal and specialty teas contain compounds that can affect blood clotting, interact with anesthesia, or interfere with medications. That’s why surgeons and anesthesiologists often advise patients to avoid certain teas that could increase risks during surgery.

🩺 Why Certain Teas Are Risky Before Surgery

Some teas — especially herbal ones — contain bioactive compounds that can:

• Thin the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding or bruising during and after surgery.
• Interact with anesthetic drugs or sedatives, changing how these medicines work.
• Affect blood pressure or blood sugar levels, complicating anesthesia management.
• Influence platelet function, slowing normal clotting processes.

Because of these effects, many doctors recommend stopping certain teas about 1–3 weeks before surgery — and waiting until recovery is underway before resuming them.

🫖 7 Teas to Avoid Before (and After) Surgery

1. ginger Tea

Although popular for nausea relief, ginger can have blood‑thinning properties and may affect clotting — a concern when you need normal blood clot formation in surgery. Physicians often recommend avoiding it at least a week before surgery.

2. Ginkgo Biloba Tea

Ginkgo contains compounds that may reduce platelet function and increase bleeding risk, especially in people taking blood thinners. It’s often advised to stop ginkgo at least one to two weeks before surgery.

3. turmeric Tea

Turmeric’s active compound (curcumin) can have antiplatelet effects and interfere with medications, so many clinicians suggest avoiding turmeric tea in the lead‑up to surgery.

4. Licorice Root Tea

Licorice can raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels, both of which may complicate anesthesia or recovery. Some surgeons recommend stopping it about two weeks before surgery.

5. Ginseng Tea

Ginseng may influence both blood sugar and clotting and can interact with anesthetic drugs or blood thinners. Doctors often suggest avoiding it before major procedures.

6. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile contains compounds with mild blood‑thinning effects, and although gentle for occasional use, many surgeons recommend skipping chamomile teas close to surgery to minimize bleeding risk.

7. Green Tea

Green tea is technically not an herbal tea, but its caffeine and plant compounds may also affect clotting and blood pressure. While small amounts may be okay depending on your surgeon’s instructions, many experts err on the side of caution and advise avoiding it before surgery.

🩹 Important Notes

☑ Black and Weak Caffeinated Tea

Black tea and weak caffeinated tea are often considered less risky than herbal teas, but caffeine itself can affect heart rate and interact with medications. It’s important to follow your specific fasting instructions and clarify with your surgeon whether these teas are allowed in the days before surgery.

☑ Herbal Tea Frequency Matters

An occasional cup might not have significant effects, but daily or high‑dose consumption (especially in supplement or extract form) is more likely to influence clotting and drug interactions. Always report all teas and herbal supplements you use to your healthcare team.

☑ Tell Your Doctor

The most important step is clear communication with your surgeon and anesthesiologist. Tell them precisely what teas, supplements, or herbal products you consume — including brands and amounts — so they can tailor instructions to your health profile.

🧠 Bottom Line

If you’re scheduled for surgery, it’s more than just food you might need to avoid — the type of tea you drink matters too. Some teas can affect blood clotting, blood pressure, and anesthesia. Key teas to skip before surgery include:

Ginger

Ginkgo biloba

Turmeric

Licorice root

Ginseng

Chamomile

Green tea

Always check with your surgeon or anesthesiologist about what’s safe for your specific procedure — even natural beverages can have unexpected effects in a surgical setting.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.