Pregnancy is a time where women naturally care more deep about what goes into their bodies because it does effect them and their baby. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider about any natural remedies that you are using or are thinking about using in order to insure a healthy pregnancy. It is also important to do your own research on any natural solutions either herbs or essential oils since this is the time where your body might be sensitive to certain oils and herbs.
I have used herbs throughout all my pregnancies, and they have generally been proven safe to use within pregnancy. There are some herbs that should not be used internally throughout pregnancy and others that can only be used postpartum or the third trimester. This is a list of herbs that have been listed as safe to use for pregnant women in order to support their pregnancy. This list is of the most beneficial herbs, but there are many more which can be added to the list that are more harder to find.
Safe Herbs to Use (1)
- Alfalfa
- Cardamom
- Chamomile
- Ginger
- Lavender
- Peppermint
- Nettles
- Raspberry Leaves
- Spearmint Leaves
Alfalfa
This herb has a lot of benefits for all ages. It is rich in vitamins and minerals including A, B1, B6, B12, C, D, E, K, biotin, folic acid, niacin, iron, potassium and magnesium. It is good for an overall health and can provide nourishment during pregnancy as well as battle fatigue. It is also has been proven to reduce cholesterol from absorption in the gut. If you are planning on having a home birth, your midwife might give this herb as a supplement in order for your baby to receive the full benefits of vitamin K. (2)
Cardamom
This is a culinary herb that is generally used as a spice. It is commonly known for treating digestive problems such as constipation, gas and heartburn. It is also used to treat the common cold and other infections such as sore throat, bronchitis. (3)
Chamomile
Is a member of the ragweed family and should be avoided in pregnancy if you have allergies. It is known to reduce inflammation, soothe an upset stomach and relieve anxiety. Most women use this herb in order to get a good nights rest as it promotes relaxation. (4)
Ginger
This popular herb is used for many stomach issues. Mainly within pregnancy it is used for relief in morning sickness. This is generally safe herb to use, however it cannot be used excessively. When nausea is bad for women during the first trimester, it can be used as a tea by adding slices of fresh ginger to boiling water. (5)
Lavender
Is known for its relief of anxiety and pain, as well as keeping certain infections under control. Pregnant women tend to use this in teas towards the end of their pregnancy in order to relax and ease tense muscles. If taken in high doses it can become a uterine stimulant. (6)
Peppermint
This is a plant and has been known to treat morning sickness, nausea and upset stomach. Some use peppermint for gallbladder problems, but it can aggravate GERD and cause flow of bile from gallbladder which can potentially cause gallstone problems. (7)
Nettles
Has a very high vitamin and mineral component, including vitamin A, B, C, E and K. It is a diuretic herb, and people that retain fluid or are on Warfarin should not use nettles. There are sedative medications, blood pressure medications and diabetes medications that nettles has been known to have a moderate interactions with. It has been more widely spread throughout common grocery stores, so if you are taking any medications please consult your healthcare provider. (8)
Raspberry Leaf
This herb has been known to tone and prepare the uterus for delivery. It is used widely within the midwifery practices, but is suggested to stay away from this herb until the second trimester, especially if you have had a miscarriage before, since it can stimulate the uterus. Raspberry leaf is known to be rich in vitamins C, E, folate, calcium, iron and zinc. (9)
Spearmint Leaf
This is a gentler alternative to peppermint and another option instead of ginger for morning sickness within pregnancy. Spearmint has been used for nausea, gas and flatulence as well as decrease muscle spasms in the stomach. (10)
It is easy to make tea with any of these herbs by simply taking 1-2 teaspoons of the dried herb (if buying loose leaf) and steep in 1 cup of boiled water for approximately 15-20 min. If you are mixing herbs, then it is best to mix in a glass mason jar with an airtight lid and store in the refrigerator up to 2 days. You can also freeze the herb mix for up to 6 months in your freezer. If you see any mold in your glass jar at any point, disregard the mix.
Much love,
Krystina RN, BSN, CBE
