From the Research
During pregnancy, it's best to avoid many herbal supplements and remedies due to potential risks to the developing fetus. Specifically, herbs like black cohosh, blue cohosh, dong quai, ephedra, goldenseal, pennyroyal, and yohimbe should be avoided as they can cause uterine contractions or other complications 1. Aloe vera (oral), cascara sagrada, senna, and other laxative herbs should also be avoided as they may trigger premature labor. Herbs with hormonal effects such as red clover, licorice root, and chasteberry could interfere with pregnancy hormones. Avoid high-dose vitamin supplements, particularly vitamin A, which can cause birth defects when consumed in excess. Even common herbs like St. John's wort, ginseng, and echinacea lack sufficient safety data for pregnancy, and their use is not recommended without consulting a healthcare provider 2. Some herbal products may interact with conventional drugs, and their effects on pregnancy haven't been thoroughly studied, making it essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplement during pregnancy 3. The safety and efficacy of supplements during pregnancy are crucial, and healthcare providers should be able to offer accurate and evidence-based advice on supplement use in pregnancy 4. Key points to consider when evaluating herbal supplements during pregnancy include:
- Potential risks to the developing fetus
- Lack of sufficient safety data for many herbal products
- Potential interactions with conventional drugs
- Importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before taking any supplement during pregnancy.