Herbs can be a wonderful part of a healthy lifestyle. According to midwife and herbalist, Aviva Jill Romm, herbs can be used to improve the quality of a pregnancy diet due to the fact that they have high quantities of nutrients. She states that there are many herbs that can be used safely during pregnancy to provide additional vitamins and minerals for both the mother and her unborn child as well as to strengthen the womb. However, there are also many herbs that are contraindicated for use by women who are either trying to conceive or are already pregnant.
Great care needs to be taken when choosing herbal supplements or teas to use while pregnant. Romm points out the fact that the herbs that a woman may use during pregnancy will often affect the baby as well. This is especially true during the first trimester. Pregnant women should consult their midwife or physician whenever in doubt about the safety of an herbal product.
The following five herbs are just a few of the most common herbs that should be avoided during pregnancy or while trying to conceive.
Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis)
The aloe plant currently has many therapeutic uses. It is used to treat wounds such as burns, scrapes, and sunburns. The gel from its fleshy leaves is often applied to the problem area and left to dry into a natural bandage. According to health writer Michael Castleman, aloe not only promotes wound healing but also helps to prevent infection. It is sold in capsule form as well as a beverage.
Castleman advises pregnant women to stay away from the internal use of aloe. This herb has been known to promote menstruation by stimulating uterine contractions.
Chamomile (Matricaria Recutita)
Most grocery stores carry wonderful herbal tea blends that can be brewed by the bag. Chamomile is a common ingredient in many of these herbal combinations because of its soothing effects on the body. It is often used as a digestive aid as well as to calm the nerves and reduce anxiety. This herb also has anti-inflammatory action.
Chamomile is often used by women suffering from menstrual cramps because it has an easing effect. However, pregnant women should avoid using chamomile (especially during early pregnancy) as well as women who are trying to conceive because this herb has also been known to promote menstruation.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis)
Renown herbalist, food scientist and author, Jethro Kloss, referred to goldenseal as one of the absolute best remedies to be found in the herbal kingdom. This plant's root has many therapeutic properties. It kills many of the bacterias that cause diarrhea and enhances the immune system. It is also commonly used to treat stomach disorders and acute inflammations as well as topically for bacterial and fungal infections.
Castleman points out that goldenseal has been known to raise blood pressure which can be quite dangerous for pregnant women. He states that while some studies show that goldenseal can help to calm the uterus and reduce excessive menstrual flow, other studies show that this herb can also promote uterine contractions and should be avoided during pregnancy or while trying to conceive.
Juniper Berries (Juniperus Communis)
The internal use of juniper berries can have a diuretic effect on the body. This herb promotes urine production and has been used to treat bloating in premenstrual syndrome, high blood pressure, and congestive heart failure. Large doses of this herb may irritate the kidneys.
Pregnant women and those trying to conceive should avoid the use of juniper berries because this herb has also been known to stimulate uterine contractions.
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice has long been used to treat nose and throat conditions such as coughs, colds, and sore throats. Castleman points out that it is also used to help remedy ulcers and infections brought on by disease causing bacteria.
He advises pregnant women to stay clear of licorice because it has been known to cause water retention. Water retention can lead to elevated blood pressure which can be dangerous for both the mom-to-be and her baby.
Great care should be exercised when herbs are used internally by anyone. Herbs can have a wonderful effect on the body when used properly. However, pregnant women and those trying to conceive must use extreme caution whenever contemplating the use of any herb.
Sources
"Back to Eden, Revised Edition"; Jethro Kloss; 1995
"The Natural Pregnancy Book"; Aviva Jill Romm; 1997
"The New Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to Nature's Best Medicines"; Michael Castleman; 2001
Afua Saafir - Afua Saafir, contributing writer, joined Suite 101 in 2009. She is a proud wife and homeschooling mom. She is passionate about learning ...
