The Best Herbal Remedies in Pregnancy & What to Avoid
Pregnancy is a delicate time in which many products and consumables are not recommended as there are known adverse effects in pregnant women or there is not enough scientific evidence for the medical community to consider them safe.
Using herbal medicine during pregnancy is beneficial for supporting your health and growing baby. It is essential to know the safety of herbs, which herbs are considered safe, and which should be avoided. While most herbs are generally considered safe in pregnancy, some can create safety issues.
If you are new to herbal remedies, or this is your first time pregnant, it is essential to research the herbs and natural supplements you want to take. This will help you make an informed decision on if it is truly safe for you.
Different Herb Forms
Before we begin on herb safety, let’s talk about the different ways herbs can be used. Of course, herbs can be dried and used for cooking like the ones in your pantry! But mostly, herbs come in teas, infusions, tinctures, and salves.
Herbal tea is trendy. Dried herbs are steeped in hot water and strained, leaving some nutrients behind in the water.
Infusions are created when large amounts of herbs are steeped in hot or cold water overnight. This creates a more concentrated version of tea.
Tinctures have the highest concentration of herbs as they are steeped in alcohol or glycerin for more extended periods.
Herbs can also be used in salves to be applied topically.
I am excited to walk you through the most common safe and unsafe herbs for pregnancy, their benefits for your pregnancy and upcoming labor, and the benefits of herbs in the intricate postpartum period.
Safe Herbs in Pregnancy
Choosing the right medicinal herbs for pregnancy can seem like a daunting task. If you rely on several sources for information, you will receive conflicting answers at some point. If you have specific health problems or conditions, please talk to your healthcare provider before the use of herbal products. Below are the safest and most popular herbs for pregnant women:
1. Red Raspberry Leaf
Red raspberry leaf is one of the best herbal supplements for pregnant women. It is often referred to as a uterine tonic. Drinking red raspberry leaf herbal teas will help tone and strengthen the uterus. A strong uterus can reduce the risk of miscarriage, reduce morning sickness, reduce cramps, and reduce the likelihood of contractions starting too early. It will help prepare the uterus for labor, potentially leading to a quicker and easier labor and delivery.
It is often recommended pregnant women begin drinking red raspberry leaf tea in the second trimester. If you want to start drinking it earlier, seek advice from your healthcare provider.
2. Ginger Root
Ginger is a very safe herb and has long been known for its ability to ease nausea, making it my go-to remedy for morning sickness in early pregnancy. It can also reduce inflammation, which, in turn, can reduce pain. There are many ways in which ginger can be consumed. Ginger is most popularly used as a tea, tinctures, capsules, raw, or crystallized. If you consume crystalized ginger, be mindful of the sugar intake.
3. Nettle Leaf
Nettle leaf is an herb rich in nutrients, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, D, E, and K. Its nutrient-dense properties make it a good choice for boosting nutrition during pregnancy. Nettle leaf can boost adrenal function, help with low energy, and support overall wellness. It is commonly used as tea or in herbal supplements.
Nettle leaf is particularly beneficial in the second and third trimesters, when pregnant women may experience more frequent discomfort. The high nutritional content of nettle leaf can help with overall nourishment and hydration.
4. Oat Straw
Oat straw comes from the same plants as oats. It is the green straw on top of the oat plant. It’s known for its calming effects, making it helpful in managing the emotional ups and downs that can come with pregnancy and promoting relaxation. Oat straw is also rich in magnesium, calcium, and silica. The extra magnesium can reduce leg cramps. The additional calcium is ideal for bone health. Silica is a mineral supporting collagen growth, essential for pregnant women’s stretching skin and growing belly.
5. Chamomile
Chamomile is most frequently made into a relaxing tea. It is known for its calming and soothing properties, which can promote a restful night’s sleep. It is also known to improve digestion and control appetite. Chamomile tea is a gentle and safe option for pregnant women. I have found chamomile tea most beneficial during the first and third trimesters when stress and sleep disturbances are most frequent.
6. Alfalfa
Alfalfa is another nutrient-dense herb, including magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamins B6, B12, C, D, E, and K. It is most beneficial in the third trimester. Its most valuable effects include pain and joint stiffness relief. Alfalfa has also been shown to prevent urinary tract infections, which are more prevalent during pregnancy.
Herbs to Question in Pregnancy
While the most common herbs are deemed safe to use in pregnancy, there are some that should be avoided. These herbs can lead to adverse effects, including uterine contractions and hormonal imbalances. The amount of each herb consumed also matters. For example, unsafe herbs consumed in small amounts pose much less risk to you and your growing baby. Adverse effects are more likely when unsafe herbs are consumed in frequently large amounts. Below are common herbs that should be avoided in pregnancy:
1. Licorice Root
Licorice root is an herb that should be avoided during pregnancy. It has the potential to cause high blood pressure and promote water retention. It can also interfere with the body’s hormone balance. Any supplement, herbal or not, that affects hormone balance should be avoided during pregnancy unless under the guidance of health professionals.
2. Mint
Mint herbs, including peppermint, spearmint, lemon balm, and catnip, should be taken cautiously during pregnancy. Peppermint and other mint herbs do have the ability to cause contractions. While some women might not be sensitive to mint, it is usually best practice to avoid mint family herbs during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Mint can also lower milk supply.
Peppermint and spearmint are known to relieve upset stomachs and headaches. If these are your go-to remedies outside pregnancy, you can consume them and watch for any adverse effects.
Catnip and lemon balm help with anxiety and promote sleep. Again, if these are common remedies for you outside of pregnancy, they can be considered safe. Watch for any adverse effects during pregnancy.
3. Yarrow
Yarrow is known for its relief of sore muscles and headaches. During pregnancy, it can be used topically to relieve these ailments. It is often found in herbal salves that relieve muscle aches and pains. However, yarrow should not be consumed internally during pregnancy.
4. Fenugreek
Fenugreek is an herb commonly found in food. It is safe to consume in small amounts, such as those found in food. It can pose a concern when consumed in moderate amounts and large amounts. The herb can stimulate the uterus and cause contractions. Eating the seed in excess amounts has been associated with neonatal and congenital disabilities (1).
Pregnancy Ailments and Their Herbal Remedies
Several herbal remedies can be used during pregnancy to provide relief. Also, a warm cup of tea is soothing in and of itself! While some of the information will overlap with what we mention above, here is a list of common pregnancy complaints and which herbs to use to mitigate them:
1. Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is a prevalent issue, primarily in the first trimester of pregnancy. Herbs like ginger root, spearmint, and lemon balm (if not sensitive to mint) are commonly used to soothe the stomach and reduce nausea. If you need clarification on using mint, try spearmint first. It has less menthol and is much gentler. Ginger or spearmint tea is one of the best herbal ways to relieve morning sickness.
2. Tiredness
The first and third trimesters are particularly exhausting during pregnancy. As mentioned above, nettle leaf and oat straw are the best herbs to combat fatigue. These two nutritional herbs boost energy levels and support overall energy. Oat straw can also help reduce stress and support emotional well-being.
3. Leg Cramps
Leg cramps are a common symptom of pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. Again, nettle leaf and oat straw are both high in potassium and magnesium, which can help reduce the occurrence of leg cramps. Drinking nettle leaf tea regularly can also help improve circulation and reduce leg swelling.
4. Constipation
Due to the fluctuation in hormones, there is often a slowdown in the first trimester of pregnancy. Mitigating this issue will provide much relief to a pregnant woman. Usually, magnesium can relieve the problem. Nettle leaf and oat straw are, again, great herbal supplements. If you need more, an Epsom salt soak, magnesium lotion, or magnesium supplement will help. Another herb to ease constipation includes marshmallow root, which lines the gut and aids in digestive issues.
5. Heartburn
Heartburn happens later in pregnancy due to Mama’s stomach being squished and having less room. It is very uncomfortable for many, but it can be eased with herbal supplements. Herbs, including chamomile and marshmallow root, are a good idea for this complaint. Ginger can also help.
6. Labor Prep
The herb red raspberry leaf was mentioned above. Still, it is so helpful during pregnancy that it needs to be mentioned again. Drinking red raspberry leaf tea in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is an excellent way to prepare your body for labor. It can help ease pain in labor when taken throughout pregnancy. It can also help ease after-labor pains and provide a smoother recovery postpartum.
Postpartum Herb Benefits
While this guide is geared towards herbs in pregnancy, using herbs postpartum is equally essential. Herbs can help balance postpartum hormones, relieve cramps, ease soreness, and increase milk supply. Here is a list of herbs for expectant mothers to have on hand to aid in their postpartum experience:
1. Red Raspberry Leaf
Red raspberry leaf continues to be beneficial after childbirth, helping tone the uterus, decreasing inflammation, and supporting recovery. It can also help increase milk production for breastfeeding mothers.
2. Alfalfa
Alfalfa can be taken postpartum to increase milk production and promote recovery, as it is high in antioxidants. It also supports the body’s ability to detoxify.
3. Dandelion Root
Dandelion root supports liver health, essential for a postpartum body to process hormones. It can also aid in digestion, another benefit during the postpartum period.
The Best Herbal Remedies for Pregnancy and Postpartum
Now that you know how essential herbs can be in pregnancy and postpartum, here is a list of Earthley’s organic herbal supplements I’ve had on hand for both pregnancies and always gift to new expecting mamas! Use code HELLONATURAL for 10% off your first order!
Nourish Her Naturally is a tincture that includes herbs such as catnip, dandelion leaf, raspberry leaf, alfalfa leaf, nettle leaf, and spearmint leaf. This inclusive list contains practically every nourishing herb for pregnancy!
Mama’s Tummy Relief is a morning sickness staple in a tincture. Herbs, including fennel seed, catnip, ginger root, blackberry leaf, and dandelion root, will help keep morning sickness at bay, aid in liver function, and even ease pregnancy heartburn.
Soothing Belly Butter contains nourishing butter such as mango and cocoa butter, grapeseed and rosehip seed oil, and the herb comfrey leaf, which helps soothe skin irritations when applied topically. This nourishing blend is designed for growing bellies.
This nourishing blend includes raspberry leaf, green rooibos tea, catnip, dandelion leaf, lemon peel, nettle leaf, and ginger root. Green rooibos tea is added due to its ability to help regulate blood sugar, its anti-inflammatory properties, and its high content of antioxidants. This is the perfect red raspberry leaf tea to add to your mornings to prepare for labor and support your body.
Good Night Lotion (sensitive) is a pregnancy must-have. It is a magnesium lotion with apricot oil, magnesium chloride flakes, mango butter, and candelilla wax. This lotion will help increase magnesium, promoting a restful night’s sleep and easing leg cramps.
Postpartum balance is a tincture specifically designed to support the liver and balance the postpartum hormones. The herbs include dandelion root, alfalfa leaf, catnip, turmeric, and black pepper. This product can also reduce bleeding postpartum.
Ease the Ache is a beneficial postpartum tincture as it can reduce the intensity of postpartum cramps as the uterus contracts back down. The herbs include raspberry leaf, cramp bark, motherwort, and nettle leaf. The cramp bark is specifically used to alleviate muscle spasms and cramps by soothing the muscles.
Herbal Soothing Bath’s “tea” is a twist on the typical sitz bath. It comes to life by steeping the herbs in boiling water for 20-30 minutes, then pouring them into running bath water. Soak for 15-20 minutes. The herbs include lavender flowers with hazel bark, calendula flowers, and yarrow flowers. This herbal blend promotes healing and can help soak away soreness.
Mama’s Magic Milk Boost is an herbal tincture that helps naturally increase breastmilk supply. Herbs include fennel seed, alfalfa leaf, blessed thistle, marshmallow root, and raspberry leaf. Blessed thistle is specifically added to help boost milk production. Taking marshmallow root as a breastfeeding mama can also help soothe a baby’s belly.
Earthley’s Postpartum Recovery Guide is a PDF download walking a new mama through the ins and outs of postpartum recovery. This includes external postpartum care for your healing parts and internal postpartum care for your fluctuating hormones and nutritional demands.
Conclusion
The use of herbal remedies during pregnancy is a powerful and natural way to address many common pregnancy complaints. Herbal remedies are also an excellent way to support your postpartum body. However, consult a healthcare provider if you are concerned about using herbs to ensure their safety for you and your body. Herbs are a valuable part of a pregnancy care routine, supporting everything from morning sickness to fatigue and postpartum recovery. I hope this guide has served you well and will positively impact your pregnancy, labor, and postpartum experience! Please let me know if you have used these remedies in the comments below!
Want to lead a less-toxic life during your pregnancy? Read more here about the best nontoxic water bottles for pregnancy!
Want to lead a less-toxic life for your baby? Read more here about washing baby onesies in natural detergent!
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