Natural Herbs and Vitamins During Pregnancy

Although medicine has replaced almost every natural supplement with a synthetic substitute, there is a debate about the effectiveness of natural herbs and vitamins in providing essential nutrition to pregnant women as well as aiding in the relief of some common discomforts. Many herbalists believe that herbs are often better, cheaper and healthier than their medical counterparts. However, most medical professionals do not recommend herbal remedies for pregnant women, since safety has not been established through adequate research.

Unlike prescription drugs, natural herbs and vitamin supplements do not have to be tested to prove they work and are safe before they are sold. As a result, the quality and strength of an herbal supplement can vary between two batches of the same product and between products from different manufacturers. Consumers have little way of knowing if a product will do what the label claims and if it is safe. In addition, reliable information about the product may be hard to find which can lead to questions on safety and effectiveness.

What are possible complications of taking herbs during pregnancy?
Although herbs are natural, not all herbs are safe to take during pregnancy. The FDA urges pregnant women not to take any herbal products without talking to their healthcare provider first. These products may contain agents that could harm the mother and the growing fetus, and cause problems with the pregnancy. Many contain substances that can cause miscarriage or premature birth, uterine contractions, injury to the fetus, or jeopardize the mother's health. Few studies have been done to measure the effects of various herbs on pregnant women or a developing fetus.

What are some herbs I should be cautious about during my pregnancy?

Depending on the source, some information will list an herb as being safe to consume during pregnancy whereas another source will list the same herb as not being safe to take. Therefore it is best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any natural medicine or other drugs during pregnancy.

According to Herbs for a Healthy Pregnancy: From Conception to Childbirth by Penelope Ody, the herbs in the following chart should NOT be used at any time during pregnancy or when pregnancy is even a possibility.

Herb: Aloe Vera
Reason to Avoid: The leaves are strong and should not be taken by mouth.

Herb: Arbor vitae (Thuja occidentalis)
Reason to Avoid: A uterine and menstrual stimulant that could damage the fetus.

Herb: Autumn crocus (Colichicum autumnale)
Reason to Avoid: Can affect cell division and lead to birth defects.

Herb: Barberry (Berberis vulgaris)
Reason to Avoid: Contains high levels of berberine, known to stimulate uterine contractions.

Herb: Basil oil
Reason to Avoid: A uterine stimulant; use only during labor.

Herb: Beth root (Trillium erectum)
Reason to Avoid: A uterine stimulant; use only during labor.

Herb: Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosus)
Reason to Avoid: May lead to premature contractions; avoid unless under professional guidance. Safe to use during childbirth.

Herb: Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)
Reason to Avoid: A uterine stimulant that in quite small doses also causes vomiting.

Herb: Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)
Reason to Avoid: A uterine stimulant to avoid unless under professional guidance. Safe to use during childbirth.

Herb: Broom (Cytisus scoparius)
Reason to Avoid: Causes uterine contractions so should be avoided during pregnancy; in parts of Europe it is given after the birth to prevent blood loss.

Herb: Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus)
Reason to Avoid: Interferes with hormone production in the pituitary gland, best avoided.

Herb: Clove oil
Reason to Avoid: A uterine stimulant used only during labor.