HERBS TO AVOID WHILE PREGNANT

HERBS TO AVOID WHILE PREGNANT

Herbs to Avoid While Pregnant

Most pregnant women are no stranger to miserable common symptoms that plague pregnancy. As a naturopath I often recommend herbs to pregnant women to treat symptoms like nausea, insomnia, yeast infections, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. But are herbs really safe during pregnancy?

Most of what is known about herbal use during pregnancy is based on vast historical, empirical, and observational evidence, with some scientific studies. Herbs are generally considered safe. After all, pregnant women commonly experience seasonal allergies, cold, and nausea for which natural remedies are much gentler and safer alternatives than pharmaceuticals. I have already shared the herbs that are safe to sue during pregnancy in another article, here I will specify the herbs that are generally considered unsafe and best be avoided during pregnancy.

GENERAL RULE ON USING HERBS DURING PREGNANCY

The safest choice is to avoid using herbs unless necessary, especially during the first trimester. One thing to keep in mind is that just because some herbs are not known to cause harm does not mean that they are safe to use.

Even when using the herbs that are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, it is recommended to do so with the consultation of a midwife, Herbalist, or Naturopath.

There are different schools of thought on whether herbs should be used during pregnancy or not. Some believe that since most herbs are not proven to be safe they should be avoided; while others believe that since herbs are food they can provide additional nutrients during pregnancy and provide optimal health for both mama and baby. We certainly cannot settle this debate but we can make safe choices. The most reasonable approach to using herbs during pregnancy is to assess the following points:

  • How safe is it to use the particular herb
  • The severity of the symptom or condition for which the herb is being used
  • Compare the safety of the herb to the safety of conventional medical approach for the symptoms

NO! NO! NO!

Certain symptoms during pregnancy always warrant immediate medical attention and should never be treated with herbs, unless you are working closely with a naturopath. These signs include the following:

  • Severe pelvic or abdominal pain
  • Persistent, severe mid-back pain
  • Persistent vaginal bleeding
  • Outbreak of herpes blisters during the first trimester
  • Edema of the hands and face
  • Severe, persistent headaches, blurry vision, or epigastric pain
  • Rupture of membranes prior to completing 37 weeks of pregnancy
  • Regular uterine contractions prior to completing 37 weeks of pregnancy
  • Cessation of fetal movement

HERBS TO DEFINITELY AVOID

While certain herbs are safe to use during pregnancy and others unsafe, there are a few herbs which fall in between. These herbs are safe to use for a brief period of time for a specific condition, but their long term use can hurt the fetus or lead to pre-term birth. This is why it is highly advisable to consult an Herbalist or Naturopath before using herbs.

The herbs which should be avoided during pregnancy are:

  • Aloes
  • Angelica
  • Barberry
  • Borage
  • Buckthorn
  • Castor oil
  • Coltsfoo
  • Comfrey
  • Goldenseal
  • Hops
  • Isoflavone extracts
  • Mugwort
  • Oregon grape
  • Red Clover
  • Rhubarb
  • Rue
  • Safflower
  • Scotch broom
  • Sorghum
  • Tansy
  • Thuja
  • Wormwood
  • Yarrow

Note: Don’t panic if you are consuming sorghum. It is concentrated use of its certain species in large quantities which is problematic.

Unsafe herbs which are generally known by their scientific names:

  • Datura
  • Ferula
  • Solanum
  • Veratrum

Essential Oils to be avoided during pregnancy include:

  • Oregano
  • Pennyroyal
  • Peppermint
  • Sage
  • Tansy
  • Thuja
  • Thyme

WHAT ABOUT THE TOPICAL APPLICATION OF HERBS?

Herbs applied topically, including vaginal use, are generally considered safe. However, some herbs which are known to be toxic should be avoided both internally and externally. These include:

  • Pennyroyal oil
  • Poke root
  • Thuja

As always, be informed, be cautious, and consult your Naturopath before consuming any herbs. You and your baby deserve all the care and love!