Herbs to Avoid during Pregnancy

Herbs have been an integral part of human life since time immemorial. They are used for culinary, cosmetic and medicinal purposes. Even though many herbs have been linked to a healthy pregnancy and safe childbirth, there are some herbs which should be avoided during pregnancy, because these herbs can be detrimental to the mother as well as the growing fetus. A common misconception is that herbs, being natural, do not cause any harm to pregnant women. However, even herbs used mainly for culinary purposes may cause side-effects. Hence it is very necessary to have a basic knowledge of the safe and unsafe herbs during pregnancy.

Herbs, which have been classified as safe, are further divided as per the stages of pregnancy. While, some are safe only during the first trimester, others are administered only after the first three months. Herbs that are categorized as unsafe should not be taken during the entire nine months of pregnancy and preferably during the period of lactation too. The following is a list of unsafe herbs:

• Angelica, which can stimulate bleeding and menstruation can cause strong contractions and lead to miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy.
• Oral intake of aloe vera should be avoided, as it can also cause uterine contractions. It is better to avoid this herb during breastfeeding too.
• Another herb called autumn crocus can cause birth defects, as it affects the process of cell division.
• Black cohosh is an uterine stimulant that should not be taken orally during pregnancy. As compared to black cohosh, blue cohosh is a stronger uterine stimulant, which can also produce contractions.
• Comfrey is another herb which can cause liver problems in both mother and fetus. It should be avoided by breastfeeding women, as it is toxic for the baby.
• Goldenseal can cause uterine contractions and miscarriage. It can also be harmful for the fetus. It should not be administered to pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• Intake of licorice can lead to high blood pressure in pregnant women. It has some hormonal properties which can be harmful for the fetus.
• Mugwort, a common herb used for treating stomach ache and colic, can cause birth defects.
• Nutmeg and its essential oil, if taken in large doses, can cause miscarriage.
• Penny royal leaf and its essential oil can lead to uterine contractions and miscarriage. It can also lead to birth defects. It should not be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women, either orally or for topical application.
• Barberry is said to cause bleeding in pregnant women and also affects the growth of the fetus.
• Uva ursi is a herb which can affect the blood sugar levels of pregnant and breastfeeding women. It can also hinder the blood flow to the uterus.
• Saw palmetto can affect the hormonal activity in pregnant women and hence should be avoided.
• Shepherd's purse can constrict blood vessels, which can result in high blood pressure. It can also act like an uterine stimulant.
• Herbs like rhubarb, buckthorn and senna, used mainly as laxatives, can cause uterine contractions.

Apart from the above mentioned herbs, there are many others, like borage oil, basil oil, cotton root, elder, false unicorn root, feverfew, henbane, motherwort, peruvian bark, rue, wormwood, yarrow, etc., which should not be used by pregnant women.

Even though herbs are very much popular for their therapeutic effects, there is no scientific backing for their efficacy. Hence, you should always consult a doctor before starting any herbal medicine or herbal supplements during pregnancy.