IS IT SAFE TO USE HERBS DURING PREGNANCY?

Herbs have been used for millennia to help restore health and vitality. Although some herbs are safe to use during pregnancy, others can be a big no-no during pregnancy because they can either promote miscarriage or interfere with the normal functioning of the body during pregnancy. Its best to err on the side of caution and work with an herbalist, a naturopathic doctor, a midwife, or any other specialist to avoid potential problems.
The herbs that are generally safe to use during pregnancy are:

RED RASPBERRY LEAF

It is a mineral rich herb which is safe to use during pregnancy. It is a uterine tonic, anti-abortive, helps protect against infections, prevents cramping, prevents anemia, prevents excessive bleeding during and after labor, and also helps facilitate the birthing process by stimulating contractions. It is consumed in the form of tea. Since it doesn’t have the most pleasant taste, it is best used combined with more palatable herbs like peppermint or rose hips. The recommended dose is from 1.5 – 5 gm daily in tea.

PEPPERMINT

Peppermint is usually safe to use after the first trimester. It is a digestive aid, helps soothe the stomach, and helps overcome nausea. It is an overall body strengthener and cleanser.

ALFALFA LEAF & NETTLE LEAF

They are both considered safe herbs to use during pregnancy. They are rich in Vitamin K which can help prevent excessive bleeding, they also improve kidney function and help prevent hemorrhoids.

GINGER

The spicy, aromatic herb which does wonders for dreadful morning sickness. There are several ways to use ginger in pregnancy. Even though ginger capsules are available, it is best used in its natural form. Here are some of the ways ginger can be effectively used during pregnancy:

Ginger Tea

Boil 1 inch piece of ginger in one cup of water while covered. Let it cool a bit and drink warm. You can increase the proportions and make 3 to 4 cups at a time and keep it refrigerated. Drink cold or warm as desired.

Ginger candies & crystallized ginger

Ginger candies are 100% fool proof and seem to work each time. They are easy to keep handy so when the nausea hits you can conquer it before it overtakes you. Ginger candies can be nibbled in small amounts throughout the day to keep nausea at bay.

Ginger Ale

It is not recommended to drink soda in pregnancy, but nausea trumps everything else and ginger ale is a delicious way to get some ginger in. The carbonation also helps with nausea. Here is how you can make your own ginger ale at home:

Take 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger root and squeeze the juice into some carbonated water; add some honey, cane sugar, or maple syrup to sweeten it.

Note: Persistent vomiting in pregnancy can be a medical problem. Consult your midwife or doctor if you experience anything beyond typical morning sickness.

ECHINACEA

Pregnancy compromises the immune system which makes mamas-to-be susceptible to receiving colds and flu. Echinacea doesn’t actually help with cold symptoms (you have ginger for that), but it has been shown to reduce the length of colds and also prevent them from recurring. It can be used as a medicine during a cold or as a preventive measure. Echinacea is available in the form of tincture but it contains alcohol. Even though the amount of alcohol in tinctures is very small, it is best to be avoided. Instead take capsules according to recommend dosage.

CHAMOMILE

As pregnancy progresses, sleep becomes a precious commodity. One of the best herbs to induce relaxation and restful sleep is chamomile. It is soothing for the stomach and nervous system, and tastes great as well. Chamomile tea should be taken warm before bed. It can also be taken a few times daily if you are stressed. To make Chamomile tea steep 1 teabag or 1 tablespoon of dried herb in 8oz of boiling water. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes.

TEA RECIPES

Mixed Blend

These herbs are best used dried and consumed as a tea. Take:

Red Raspberry Leaf (4 parts),

Nettle Leaf (1 part)

Alfalfa Leaf (1 part)

Peppermint (1/2 part)

Blend these dried herbs. Take ¾ cup of these dried blended herbs and put them in a kettle and pour 4 cups of boiling water. Cover and let it sit overnight. Strain the tea in the morning and keep refrigerated. Drink a cup twice daily. This batch will last you for two days.

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

2 tbsp Red Raspberry Leaf

2 tsp Peppermint Leaf

2 tsp Rose Hips

Mix together and steep in 8 oz. of boiling water for 20 minutes. Strain and drink 1-2 cups daily.

Herbs can provide substantial relief from common complaints during pregnancy. However, they have medicinal properties and should be used with caution and under the care of a trained herbalist or naturopath.

Tags: prenatal, female, herbs