As “natural” products become more widespread and well-known, many women are taking these products to improve their health. Although most herbal remedies are considered to be “natural”, they can have medication-like effects. As a result, some of these products can be dangerous for you and your baby.
Given the paucity of data regarding safety in pregnancy, I recommend that my patients avoid most herbal remedies in pregnancy. The preparation of many herbal products is not controlled, thus the additives, strength and purity may be unknown. Case reports published in the medical literature report effects that include: increased risk of miscarriage, fetal alcohol syndrome, birth defects, ovarian hyperstimulation during in vitro fertilization, and high blood pressure, to name just a few.
A few herbal products are considered safe by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada to consume during pregnancy and include: raspberry leaf tea, ginger and peppermint. Many women may find consuming ginger during early pregnancy can help minimize nausea and vomiting. I recommend my patients grate fresh ginger root (or buy frozen grated ginger), steep in boiling water, strain and drink as a tea.
Although these products are considered safe, they should still only be consumed in moderation (i.e. 2-3 cups of weak tea per day).
For an extensive list on herbal products that are safe and those that should be avoided, go to: http://www.sogc.org/health/pregnancy-herbal_e.asp#herbal for more information.
Keep in mind, these are general recommendations and you should always consult your doctor to see what is best for you and your baby.
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