Should You Begin an Herbal Regimen While Pregnant?

Getting to the point, if you already take herbs or herbal combinations, and you understand herbs and your own body, you most likely can continue to take most of your protocol throughout pregnancy. If, however, you have never taken herbs before, the first trimester of pregnancy is not the time to start. Many women may take herbs to encourage pregnancy. That protocol should be discontinued for the length of the pregnancy unless otherwise advised by a Naturopathic Physician.

Every vegetable has its own special qualities. Herbs are vegetables with notable potential to be healing and even medicinal; in fact many of them are refined to create drugs. Thus is the case with foxglove which produces digitoxin prescribed for cardiovascular disease. I state this because although herbs are the balanced whole plant and medicine is the extract, therefore refined and targeted, certain herbs, even with their whole properties can be dangerous during pregnancy. Foxglove is only one case in point and an example of herbs, plants used as medicines.

There are many herbs that can be used during pregnancy. They are: red raspberry, spearmint, licorice, lemon grass, chamomile, rose hips, fennel, alfalfa, anise and anise seed, dandelion, ginger, slippery elm, lavender, rose, and meadowsweet. These are herbs that roll off the tip of my pen and Ill elaborate further on their potential uses and the right trimester for implementation.

While nausea and over-tiredness is common during the first trimester of pregnancy there are certain safe herbs that can remedy the inconvenience. Anise and fennel are great remedies. Fennel tea can be made by steeping the seed in warm water and then sipping. Meadowsweet is another aid for the seasick feelings of early pregnancy. Use about one teaspoon per cup of hot water and drink a cup of meadowsweet tea morning and afternoon or early evening. Always make infusions light and take time sipping. Anise seed can be carried and chewed on while out and about and unable to stop for tea

In smaller amounts ginger is always good for the digestion, and can be made by dropping a spoonful of a tincture into warm water, or by steeping a piece of ginger root itself in hot water. In small amounts, Spearmint mixed with several other herbs to make a tea can be very soothing. Dandelion tea, a soothing herb is a good neutralizing food when nausea strikes. Dandelion will also provide food for the blood and immune system. The reason for taking small and light doses of any herb or food during pregnancy is because not only can the mother create an intolerance or allergy to a single herb in her own body, the baby may be affected also.

Alfalfa can be used like a super food and strengthener for mother during all three trimesters. The leaves dried are loaded with vitamins and minerals like A, B6, B12, C, E, K, folate and niacin. These are powerful agents to prevent birth defects. Taking Alfalfa before conception, during pregnancy and post natal is quite useful.

The most famous of all herbs to use during pregnancy is Red Raspberry. A mother who has successfully used herbs and herbal teas during her first trimester can continue with those and add a few more. Red Raspberry is one herb that can be started in the second trimester. Two cups daily for the concluding six months is recommended as it prepares the uterus for labor and birth. Steep two tablespoons of red raspberry: pour boiling hot water over the herb and steep up to twenty minutes. Not only do the alkaloids, it is believed, keep contractions quite regular during labor, there is the added plus of enhancing mothers milk after delivery.

Peppermint, one herb that is usually not a problem, should be kept on the shelf for the term of the pregnancy. The volatile oils in peppermint can over stimulate the nervous system of the unborn infant. The aroma of the leaves however can help immeasurably as aromatherapy for morning or afternoon sickness. Chamomile mixed with other herbs in a blend is usually not a problem as the content of chamomile is slight. Insomnia during second and third trimesters can be soothed with chamomile, lemon grass and lavender. Chamomile may be used with caution in the second and third trimesters. Drink only one cup per day as too much can cause early labor or miscarriage because of its relaxing qualities.

Typically unknown by many, herbs used in combinations usually enhance each other. The true enhancement process, used by Chinese herbalists when combining the Kingly herbs removes any toxic elements, or allergen causing properties while enhancing the healing properties of herbs. This technique creates a food like quality, a formulation which is food for healing and strengthening. Working with an herbalist, a nutritionist that has an herbal background or a naturopath will ensure that you get the information you need to decide whether or not a formula should be used during pregnancy.

Herbs that relax during early labor: tincture of passionflower in warm water calms during early stages of labor. Aromatherapy with oils of lavender, which eases anxiety, and peppermint which eases nausea are great aids during labor. Chamomile is a relaxant and during labors first signs is perfectly wonderful for resting and calming mom for the work ahead during the birthing process.

Watch for the next article which dives a bit deeper into herbs that can be used post natal or if mother delivers by Cesarean Section. Until then, take the best of care, eat organic, raw fruits and vegetables during and after pregnancy, and stay really happy.