5 Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat huge variety of ailments and for health promotion purposes. But when you become pregnant, it is essential to know which herbs are safe and which herbs to avoid because whatever we ingest (food-born illness, for example) is shared by the growing baby and that includes herbs.

While most of us think of herbs as remedies for various health concerns, and even to help your fertility, once you become pregnant, if you’re still on an herb regimen, it’s crucial you consult with your doctor immediately. Studies have found that some herbs may cause miscarriage, premature contractions and birth, and fetal harm.

While you should discuss all herb and supplement usage with your provider. there are a few herbs that are definite no’s.

Here are five herbs to avoid during pregnancy.

1. Saw palmetto

Saw palmetto comes from a small palm tree, native to the eastern U.S., has been used for chronic pelvic pain, bladder disorders, decreased sex drive, hair loss, hormone imbalances, and prostate cancer. The ripe fruit of saw palmetto is used in several forms, including ground and dried fruit or whole berries. It is available as liquid extracts, tablets, capsules, and as an infusion or a tea.

When used orally, saw palmetto contributes to hormonal activity and during pregnancy, a disruption of hormonal balance could result in pregnancy complications.

2. Ephedra

Ephedra is an evergreen shrub-like plant native to central Asia and Mongolia. It also grows in the southwestern U.S. In China, people have used ephedra for centuries to alleviate colds, fever, flu, headaches, asthma, nasal congestion and wheezing.

Outside of short-term weight loss, ephedra’s effectiveness is weak, and one known side effect is increased blood sugar levels. During pregnancy, this could lead to gestational diabetes. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

3. Echinacea

There are nine species of Echinacea, all of which are native to North America. Echinacea is used as a dietary supplement for the common cold and other infections with hopes to boost your immune system to more effectively fight the infection or symptoms associated with the infection. Many studies have been done on echinacea and the common cold. The most common side effects of echinacea are digestive tract symptoms, such as nausea or stomach pain.

In addition, in very small amounts, echinacea purpura was noted to have ill effects on the sperm and egg—primarily a reduced ability of sperm to penetrate egg.

4. Black cohosh

Black cohosh is a plant native to North America. Currently, people use black cohosh as a dietary supplement for hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. While research and data are extremely limited, black cohosh has also been used to alleviate menstrual cramps and to induce labor. But research suggests that black cohosh may be dangerous for unborn babies. As a result, it is suggested to avoid.

Furthermore, black cohosh should not be confused with blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides), which has different effects and is not generally recognized as safe. Black cohosh has sometimes been used with blue cohosh to stimulate labor, but this use was linked to severe adverse effects in at least one newborn.

5. St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort has been used for centuries to treat mental disorders and nerve pain. Most recently, it is used as a remedy for depression, anxiety and sleep disorders. In addition to echinacea purpura, St. John’s wort at very fractional doses has also been have ill effects on the sperm and egg, and potential genetic mutations which could compromise the health of a pregnancy.

Furthermore, St. John’s wort has been noted to decrease the efficacy of birth control pills.

To be clear, the FDA urges pregnant women not to take any herbal products without talking to their health care provider first. Women are also urged to consult a trained and experienced herbalist (or other professional who is trained to work with herbs) if they want to take herbs during their pregnancy.

More herbs that can cause miscarriages

Here’s a list of herbs that can potentially cause miscarriage, along with their common names, parts used, forms of use, and comments regarding their potential effects during pregnancy.

Achillea Millefolium

Also known as Yarrow or Milenrama, this herb is commonly used in various forms such as tea. The stems, leaves, and flowers of Yarrow are used, but it may induce uterine contractions, making it unsafe for pregnant women.

Adiantum Capillus-veneris

Commonly known as Maidenhair Fern or Culantrilllo de Pozo, this herb’s fronds (leaves) are often used in tea. However, it may induce uterine contractions, making it unsafe during pregnancy.

Aloe Vera

While Aloe Vera gel used topically is considered safe, ingesting whole leaf preparations may stimulate uterine contractions, posing a risk to pregnant women.

Angelica Archangelica

Also known as Angelica, this herb may induce uterine contractions. It is usually consumed as tea or in capsule form, and the root of the plant is used.

Artemisia Spp.

Also known as Wormwood, Estafiate, or Istafiate, this herb contains a potentially neurotoxic ingredient known as thujone. It’s best to avoid this herb during pregnancy.

Capsella Bursa-pastoris

Commonly known as Shepherd’s Purse or Bolsa de Pastor, this herb’s leaves, stems, and flowers are used in tea or tinctures. However, it may stimulate uterine contractions, making it unsafe for pregnant women.

Cascara Sagrada

Also known as Sacred Bark, this herb’s tree bark is used in tea or capsules. However, it may stimulate uterine contractions, making it unsafe during pregnancy.

Caulophyllum Thalictroides

Known as Cohosh Azul, Blue Cohosh, or Squaw Root, this herb may be toxic to the fetus and induce uterine contractions. It’s best to avoid this herb during pregnancy.

Cinnamomum Cassia

Also known as Cassia or Canelón, this herb’s tree bark is used in tea. While occasional use as a condiment is considered safe, taken as tea, it may induce uterine contractions.

Datura Spp.

Also known as Jimsonweed, Stramonium, Moonflower, or Toloache, various species of Datura are toxic and hallucinogenic. Avoid use during pregnancy.

Foeniculum Vulgare

Also known as Fennel or Hinojo, high doses of this herb should be avoided, as they may induce uterine contractions. It is typically consumed as tea, pills, capsules, or essential oil.

Juniperus Spp.

Also known as Juniper Berry or Sabino, this herb may induce uterine contractions. It’s best to avoid this herb during pregnancy.

Mentha Pulegium

Commonly known as Pennyroyal or Poleo, this herb’s essential oil should not be used internally as it is abortifacient and liver toxic.

Origanum Spp.

Also known as Oregano, occasional use as a condiment is considered safe. However, taken as tea, it may induce uterine contractions. Avoid topical use of essential oil during pregnancy and ingestion of essential oil.

Ricinus Communis

Also known as Castor Oil or Ricino, this herb’s oil used as a laxative may stimulate uterine contractions. The seeds are also highly poisonous.

Ruta Graveolens

Also known as Rue or Ruda, this herb is toxic internally and may induce uterine contractions.

Symphytum Officinale

Also known as Comfrey, avoid prolonged use internally as it can be liver toxic.

Trigonella Foenum-graecum

Also known as Fenugreek, Alholva, or Fenogreco, this herb may induce uterine contractions.

Wrapping Up

It is important to remember that while herbs can be beneficial, they can also pose risks during pregnancy. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new herb or supplement, especially during pregnancy. Your health and the health of your baby are paramount. Educate yourself, ask questions, and make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use herbal remedies during pregnancy?

Herbal remedies have been used for health benefits for centuries. However, when pregnant, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor before continuing any herb regimen, as some could harm your growing baby.

What should I do if I’ve been taking herbal supplements and I find out I’m pregnant?

If you’re pregnant and have been using herbal supplements, stop and consult with your healthcare provider immediately to discuss their safety and potential risks to your baby.

Why are certain herbs not recommended during pregnancy?

Some herbs can cause miscarriage, premature contractions, birth, and fetal harm due to their effects on hormone levels, blood sugar, and other body systems.

What are some specific herbs to avoid during pregnancy?

Avoid herbs like saw palmetto, ephedra, echinacea, black cohosh, and St. John’s wort, as these can lead to pregnancy complications or affect fetal health.

Why is saw palmetto not recommended during pregnancy?

Saw palmetto may disrupt hormonal balance and could lead to pregnancy complications.

Can ephedra affect my pregnancy?

Yes, ephedra can increase blood sugar levels, potentially leading to gestational diabetes, and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Is echinacea safe during pregnancy?

Though commonly used to boost the immune system, echinacea has been linked to reduced sperm penetration ability and is recommended to be avoided during pregnancy.

Why should I avoid black cohosh when pregnant?

Black cohosh may be dangerous for unborn babies and has been linked to adverse effects when used to stimulate labor.

What are the risks of using St. John’s Wort during pregnancy?

St. John’s Wort has been associated with ill effects on sperm and egg, potential genetic mutations, and can decrease the efficacy of birth control pills.

What should I do before taking any herbs during pregnancy?

Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any herbs during pregnancy. Consider consulting with a trained herbalist or professional trained to work with herbs.