Herbs. What herbs can you drink during pregnancy, and which are strictly prohibited? Can pregnant women drink herbs?

During pregnancy, the expectant mother needs to observe some restrictions not only in her diet, but also in taking medications. But what to do when a woman gets sick while waiting for her baby? Folk remedies can come to the rescue. But in this case, mommy needs to know everything about contraindications to the products. There are a number of herbs that, in the form of a decoction or infusion, can negatively affect the course of pregnancy, the health of the woman herself and her baby.

Remember, some types of herbs may be more dangerous than drugs. The thing is that they do not undergo clinical trials on pregnant women or nursing mothers, so it is not known for certain how they can manifest themselves in the body. Using folk remedies without consulting a doctor is fraught with complications for the woman and her fetus.

Prohibited during pregnancy

Drugs that cause disruption of placental circulation:

1. Hyssop officinalis can not only affect the placenta, it can increase pregnancy, significantly increasing the risk of premature birth.

2. Medicinal sage is often found in diuretic preparations intended for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases.

Drugs that cause premature labor or miscarriage:

1. Tree-like, which is used for gastrointestinal tract preparations that increase immunity and stimulate appetite.

2. Barberry. It is found in preparations intended to combat anemia and treat the liver.

3. Oregano is used in sedatives, pulmonary and gastric preparations, significantly increasing appetite.

4. Lovage is used as a seasoning and is a diuretic, analgesic and expectorant.

5. Brittle buckthorn is used as a laxative and a medicine for stomach ulcers.

6. Tansy and Ergot are poisonous and very dangerous herbs during pregnancy.

7., which is used during treatment with photographic preparations.

8. Rhubarb palmate. Used as a choleretic and laxative, it can disrupt the formation of fetal bone tissue due to the high content of oxalic acid.

9. Seeded radish is harmful for pregnant women, but beneficial for a nursing mother.

10. Curly parsley is a diuretic that improves digestion and normalizes menstrual cycle.

Herbs that are harmful to the body of the expectant mother:

1. Licorice glabra can retain fluid in the body, which forms swelling, increases blood pressure and can cause hypertension.

2. Mordovnik vulgare increases sensitivity to pain, increasing muscle tone.

3. Chaga can cause swelling, which is very dangerous in the third cycle of pregnancy.

Herbs that cause allergies in the fetus:

1. Tripartite sequence.

2. Wild strawberries.

Sorrel and garden spinach can cause congenital heart disease in a baby.

Valerian, wild rosemary, wormwood, sweet clover, greater celandine and laxative buckthorn lead to disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.

St. John's wort and immortelle can significantly increase blood pressure, which is very dangerous for expectant mother.

Self-medication can have a detrimental effect not only on the development of the fetus, but also on the health of the mother, so it is best to seek advice from a doctor.

Pregnancy is a special period in a woman’s life when you have to be careful not only in food, but also in taking medications. However, 9 months of waiting for a baby is not a short period of time, and no one is immune from the fact that the expectant mother may get sick. Most pregnant women, in order not to harm the baby with “pills and other chemicals,” decide to be treated with traditional methods: decoctions and herbal infusions. But don’t rush to brew what you’re used to drinking before! After all, even “grandmother’s remedies” may not be so harmless in a woman’s new position. How can they harm?

Decoctions and infusions that are familiar to us in everyday life, which we usually use as herbal teas or teas with additives, can have a negative impact on the health of the mother, on the baby, and even cause the threat of miscarriage or abortion. Therefore, you need to know which herbs are best not to use during pregnancy.

Herbs that affect blood clotting

Some herbs should not be taken during pregnancy as they affect the blood clotting process and therefore may lead to a risk of bleeding during childbirth. They have this property:

  • burnet, which is used in the treatment of respiratory and digestive organs;
  • immortelle- causes an increase in blood pressure;
  • corn silk, used as a choleretic and diuretic;
  • stinging nettle- disrupts hormone levels;
  • common ragwort- leads to increased heart rate, causes dry mouth and has a carcinogenic effect;
  • knotweed- has a strong effect on blood clotting and leads to contraction of the uterus, which can cause miscarriage.

Herbs that cause complications during pregnancy

Many herbs cause unpleasant symptoms such as heartburn, flatulence, nausea and vomiting. To avoid exposing yourself to such “thrills,” try to avoid using the following herbs:

  • Valerian officinalis, which is used for the normal functioning of the nervous system. With long-term use (longer than 2 weeks) or with large dosages, headaches, disturbances in the functioning of the heart and digestive organs, and a nervous state may occur.
  • Wormwood It is used as an appetite stimulant, but if the dosage is exceeded, it can cause hallucinations and.
  • Sweet clover It is used as a laxative, expectorant and diuretic, for flatulence, joint pain and sleep disturbances, but it is poisonous and can cause headaches, dizziness, drowsiness and vomiting.
  • Celandine used to treat the digestive system, but it is also poisonous and can cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and respiratory depression.
  • Marsh rosemary is poisonous, and therefore is used in a strictly defined dosage as an expectorant for bronchial asthma. In addition, it can also lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels.

A number of herbs can cause hormonal imbalance in a pregnant woman, including:

  • dandelion officinalis;
  • Eleutherococcus senticosus;
  • common ginseng;
  • Rhodiola rosea;
  • Leuzea safflower;
  • Schisandra chinensis;
  • common hops, which can be prescribed for the treatment of kidneys and diseases of the nervous system;
  • yarrow (due to its toxicity, it can also cause skin rashes);
  • lemon balm, which is prescribed for nervous disorders and to increase lactation for nursing mothers;
  • walnut leaf can also cause cerebral vascular spasms;
  • black currant, used as a choleretic agent, a source of vitamins, and also for the treatment of colds;
  • cinquefoil, used as a diuretic and hemostatic agent.

In addition to the fact that the above herbs can disrupt the hormonal levels of a pregnant woman, they also stimulate the sex glands and can cause insomnia, tachycardia, headaches, nervousness and increased blood pressure.

The use of the following herbs can also lead to increased blood pressure:

  • St. John's wort(it promotes vasoconstriction and disrupts blood circulation in the placenta);
  • licorice naked(promotes the appearance of edema due to water retention in the body);
  • immortelle sandy(used in the treatment of liver and gallbladder diseases).

During pregnancy, due to adverse effects on the kidneys, the following should be avoided:

  • calamus marsh,
  • madder,
  • golden rhododendron,
  • blue cornflower,
  • fragrant celery,
  • dill,
  • elecampane high,
  • juniper berries.

Consumption of Echinoid helps to increase muscle tone and increases sensitivity to pain.

Due to subsequent water retention in the body, especially in the third trimester, a pregnant woman should not take an infusion of birch mushroom (chaga).

Herbs that may harm the fetus

Herbs can also harm the developing fetus, and therefore the expectant mother should refrain from consuming:

  • (kelp) - its excessive consumption is fraught with iodine oversaturation, which can lead to abnormal development of the fetus;
  • Tangut rhubarb- it has a laxative and choleretic effect, however, the high content of oxalic acid in it can lead to poor development of the baby’s bone tissue;
  • garden spinach and common sorrel- also due to the high content of oxalic acid in plants, leading to impaired development of fetal bone tissue;
  • three-part series, which is usually included in preparations for the treatment of skin diseases and is used as a diaphoretic and diuretic, can cause allergic manifestations in the unborn child;
  • wild strawberries, the leaves of which can also provoke allergic reactions in the child, and in addition can cause miscarriage or premature birth.

Toxic effect on the fetus:

  • celandine,
  • Echinops,
  • wild rosemary,
  • sweet clover,
  • periwinkle,
  • mistletoe,
  • Sophora.

Hyssop officinalis and sage cause disturbances in placental circulation, which reduces the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus.

Abortive herbs

There are plants that can cause fetal death, abortion or premature birth. To avoid miscarriage or its threat during pregnancy, it is strictly forbidden to consume:

  • Aloe arborescens- is part of a collection of herbs for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, increasing immunity and improving appetite.
  • Common barberry- is part of a collection of herbs to combat anemia (increase hemoglobin levels), improve appetite and stimulate the functioning of the liver and gallbladder.
  • Oregano officinalis- used to increase appetite, treat diseases of the nervous and digestive systems.
  • Wild strawberries- used to increase hemoglobin, treat kidneys and eliminate digestive problems, but it can cause increased uterine tone.
  • Hyssop officinalis- is part of sedatives and stomach preparations, increases hemoglobin, but also increases the tone of the uterus.
  • Buckthorn brittle- used for stomach ulcers and as a laxative.
  • Lovage officinalis- can be part of seasonings and spices, diuretics, expectorants, analgesics and sedatives.
  • Curly parsley- used as a diuretic for digestive problems and menstrual irregularities.
  • Tansy- used to increase hemoglobin, treat headaches, relieve chronic stress, but increases blood pressure and uterine tone.
  • Rhubarb Tangut- used in choleretic and laxative preparations.
  • Radish- Harmful for pregnant women, but very useful for nursing mothers.
  • Ergot- poisonous! Strictly prohibited during pregnancy.
  • Garlic- quite often included in herbal medicines.

Decoctions of the following herbs also have an abortifacient effect:

  • rue,
  • knotweed,
  • burnet,
  • St. John's wort,
  • hay grass,
  • bird's knotweed,
  • juniper,
  • ginseng,
  • field carnation,
  • shepherd's purse,
  • viburnum,
  • periwinkle,
  • yarrow,
  • earthen cleanser,
  • mandrake,
  • autumn crocus,
  • watercress,
  • nutmeg,
  • wild rosemary,
  • sage,
  • Bay leaf,
  • red clover,
  • oregano,
  • high shot.

All of the above herbs have different principles of abortifacient action. Some of them affect the contraction of the uterine muscles, intense contractions of which provoke placental abruption and premature birth. Others suppress the action of estrogen, which is responsible for attaching the placenta and keeping it in the body of the uterus throughout pregnancy, and its decrease leads to miscarriages. There are also herbs that contain toxic substances that, penetrating through the mother’s blood to the fetus, cause death and subsequent rejection. Toxic substances can cause a sharp decrease in the level of oxygen in the mother's blood, causing asphyxia of the fetus and its death.

Even chamomile, which seems harmless at first glance, requires careful use, since along with the mass beneficial properties with regular use of a strong decoction, it can become the culprit in increasing the production of estrogen and increasing the tone of the uterus.

However, even with a contraindication, some herbs and medicinal plants can be prescribed to a pregnant woman for the treatment of various diseases, but it is important to take into account the delicate state of her body, and therefore the dosage should be calculated with special care and always under the supervision of the attending physician.

Every pregnant woman should know that she is responsible for her health and for the proper intrauterine development of the baby. Therefore, if a woman decides to become a mother, then this should not happen “by chance,” but on a conscious basis, when the body is already prepared for this in a healthy way life and rational proper nutrition at least for 2-3 months.

Be healthy!

Especially for- Ksenia Dakhno

Many pharmaceutical drugs are prohibited or used with caution during pregnancy. Women are trying to find a safe treatment, so they switch to medicinal plants. But such a replacement cannot be called correct. Even a doctor will not always tell you which herbs are allowed during pregnancy. You need to focus on the active substances in their composition and the mechanism of action on the body.

Rules of herbal medicine

The World Health Organization supports herbal medicine in cases where scientifically proven methods are not available. But treatment with medicinal plants is not recommended as the main method, especially for severe diseases.

Medicinal herbs are dangerous if they are collected incorrectly. Near industrial enterprises, within the city or along highways, plants accumulate many harmful substances and carcinogens. The time of year when raw materials are harvested matters. Most often this is the period of spring or summer, during active growth or flowering.

To use quality herbs for treatment, you need to buy them at the pharmacy. These plants are grown in clean areas and do not contain hazardous contaminants. Manufacturers comply with assembly deadlines, drying and storage rules.

Self-collected plants are not always of the type and type that is needed. Many related herbs are similar to each other, but differ in the amount of beneficial substances or may contain additional chemical components that have pronounced side effects. For example, for external use, pregnant women are sometimes allowed a decoction of St. John's wort. But he is similar appearance with St. John's wort, which is less effective.

In the 1st trimester, doctors recommend avoiding taking any medicinal plants. This is the period of embryo formation and organ laying, so it is impossible to predict what effect the herbs will have. During the remaining stages of pregnancy, herbal medicine should be discussed with your doctor.

Dangerous plants and their combinations

Herbs prohibited during pregnancy have various effects on the body of the mother or fetus:

  • teratogenic;
  • hormone-like;
  • abortive;
  • toxic.

But some plants may be prohibited at the beginning of the period and approved in the last months, or vice versa. The danger comes from the use of herbal decoctions and infusions internally; local use does not lead to the absorption of substances, therefore it is considered safe.

Any medications prepared in the form of an alcohol tincture for oral administration automatically fall into the group of prohibited drugs. This is due to the effect of ethyl alcohol, which causes fetal deformities and disrupts the development of the nervous system.

Teratogenic effects

Dangerous herbs with teratogenic effects, prohibited in the 1st trimester:

  • ginseng;
  • American lacquerus;
  • series;
  • sagebrush.

Ginseng infusion is often used for low blood pressure, weakness, and decreased immunity. But in pregnant women, this plant can lead to congenital abnormalities of the fetus. Wormwood in folk medicine is used externally and in the form of decoctions for decreased appetite and lipid metabolism disorders. But for pregnant women, this is a bad way to stimulate the desire to eat during pregnancy. It is impossible to determine the exact dosage that will lead to deviations in the structure of the fetal organs. Wormwood is prohibited during gestation in any quantity, regardless of the period. It can cause seizures, hallucinations and bleeding.

Rhubarb is dangerous for the formation of the skeleton. Therefore, it is not recommended to drink it in any form. The series causes developmental defects, but can be used as an external remedy.

Hormone-like effects

During the gestation period, a certain balance of hormones is maintained in the blood. Its change leads to the cessation of embryo development and premature birth. The following have estrogen-like effects:

  • sage;
  • hop;
  • licorice;
  • alfalfa;
  • clover;
  • anise.

Sage is used in the treatment of colds, gastritis, stomach ulcers and digestive disorders. For pregnant women, it can only be used externally to treat infected wounds, burns and frostbite. It is allowed to rinse your mouth with sage decoction for nausea in the 1st trimester, but drinking it is prohibited.

St. John's wort has a strong influence on hormonal levels; it has an abortifacient effect.

The list of herbs that can lead to diarrhea differs in different sources. Among the dangerous species are:

  • corn silk;
  • hop;
  • St. John's wort;
  • anise;
  • fenugreek;
  • juniper.

You need to choose raw materials for safe treatment in consultation with a doctor. Self-medication can lead to irreversible consequences.

With abortifacient effect

What herbs should you not drink during pregnancy? ethnoscience determined at the dawn of humanity, when women did not have the opportunity to terminate an unwanted pregnancy surgically. Plants that cause abortion lead to bleeding, stimulate uterine contractions and death of the fertilized egg. In the second trimester and later, they can cause premature labor. The following representatives are dangerous:

  • knotweed - provokes miscarriage in the 2nd trimester;
  • parsley - increases the tone of the uterus, can cause contractions and premature birth;
  • hyssop – dangerous at any time;
  • tansy – increases blood pressure, in women with hypertension or gestosis it can cause placental abruption;
  • thyme and sage cause uterine bleeding and lead to miscarriage.

Some sources indicate that in large doses the following can lead to or premature birth:

  • oregano;
  • aloe;
  • juniper;
  • lovage;
  • the shot is high;
  • viburnum;
  • shepherd's purse;
  • barberry;
  • periwinkle.

Large doses of tea based on chamomile, raspberry, calendula, and ginger are dangerous. In small quantities they are often used as anti-inflammatory agents. But frequent use of the decoction affects the synthesis of prostaglandins, which accelerate the ripening of the cervix and can cause.

Other dangerous herbal remedies

Contraindicated herbs can affect metabolism, interfere with absorption, or intensively remove necessary components from the body. Therefore, the list of dangerous medicinal plants is expanding.

You need to beware of compounds with toxic effects. Some have cumulative properties. This means that with a one-time dose there will be no negative effect, but with regular use, the active substances accumulate in the body, and an undesirable reaction occurs. These include:

  • belladonna, Echinops;
  • larkspur, passionflower;
  • celandine, ephedra;
  • tobacco, dope;
  • thermopsis, ergot;
  • magnolia, chilibuha;
  • snowdrop.

Nettle can increase blood clotting, but in the last stages of pregnancy this process starts naturally. This is how the body prepares to stop bleeding during childbirth. Therefore, an additional increase in coagulation capacity will cause harm, this is an increased risk of thrombosis.

Cornflowers contain a high content of toxic cyanides and have a pronounced diuretic effect. Loss of fluid leads to a decrease in calcium, potassium, and sodium ions in the blood. This is an additional risk of impaired pressure and contractility of the uterus. Calamus has a diuretic effect, which is also contraindicated.

Licorice is often used as an expectorant. However, it affects hormonal levels.

Hay grass is used for constipation to speed up the excretion of feces. But during pregnancy, it can cause a large flow of blood to the uterus, increase tone and provoke a miscarriage. It is undesirable to use echinacea, violet, and pepper, which can disrupt bowel movements.

What benefits

Pregnant women benefit from herbs that are used as aids to treat colds, cystitis, coughs, and reduce symptoms of toxicosis. Doctors prescribe many prohibited plants as external remedies. They act locally and are not absorbed into the blood, so they do not have a harmful effect on the mother’s body or the fetus.

Medicinal plants: 1 – Aralia Manchurian; 2 – common barberry; 3 – common hawthorn; 4 – sandy immortelle; 5 – valerian officinalis; 6 - snake mountaineer; 7 - pepper mountaineer; 8 - spring adonis; 9 - elecampane tall; 10 - Dioscorea Caucasian; 11 - high tempting; 12 - ginseng; 13 — zherster laxative; 14 - St. John's wort; 15 - common viburnum; 16 - broad-leaved groundsel; 17 - burnet.

Calming fees

Pregnant women often experience mood swings, tearfulness, and excessive anxiety. Stress and nervous tension have a bad effect on bearing a child. They provoke releases of adrenaline and cortisol, which can cause an increase and threat of interruption. It is not always possible to calm down on your own. Therefore, doctors prescribe herbal decoctions.

Valerian root is considered safe. There is no need to try to find it in wildlife; it is much safer to buy ready-made raw materials at the pharmacy. But doctors prefer to prescribe valerian extract in tablet form. This allows you to accurately select the dosage and protects against side effects.

Those who decide to prepare a homemade decoction need to follow the recipe:

  1. Pour 10 g of dry root into 200 ml of boiling water.
  2. Keep the mixture in a water bath for 30 minutes, leave to cool under the lid.
  3. Strain.
  4. Drink 1 tbsp. l. 4 times a day.

Long courses of herbal treatment are not recommended. It is enough to take the valerian infusion for a week, then you need to take a break.

Those who drink valerian root decoction for more than 2 weeks may experience the opposite effect. Headaches occur, heart function and sleep are disrupted, and excessive irritability appears.

Motherwort tincture is sold in pharmacies. But it is contraindicated for pregnant women due to its alcohol content. If you have increased anxiety, insomnia, indigestion, or flatulence, you can drink a decoction of motherwort. But not everyone likes its taste and aroma. You can add half a teaspoon of dry raw materials to regular tea per 200 g of water and brew it in the traditional way.

Regular consumption of motherwort tea will have the following effects:

  • equalizes blood pressure;
  • calms heart attacks;
  • improves digestion;
  • relieves flatulence;
  • improves sleep.

If you follow the dose and do not abuse the motherwort decoction, you can relieve the slightly increased tone of the uterus and eliminate intestinal spasms.

Threat of interruption

When in early or if spotting occurs, the herb cuff is recommended as an aid. It helps stop bleeding and reduces vascular permeability. But as a stand-alone treatment, it may not be effective. The cause of miscarriage at short term is often a lack of progesterone. Therefore, medications are needed to compensate for the lack of the hormone. With the help of herbal medicine, you can stop bleeding and reduce uterine contractility. Valerian or motherwort will complement the treatment.

Treatment of colds

During pregnancy, there is a natural decrease in immunity. In case of viral infections, it is impossible to help the body with immunomodulatory and antiviral drugs; they are contraindicated for expectant mothers. You can improve your condition with the help of medicinal decoctions.

To reduce the inflammatory reaction, lower the temperature, increase immunity and speed up recovery, you can drink tea with black currant leaves, fireweed, and linden blossom. It is better to buy each component separately at the pharmacy and brew it in one teapot.

What herbs can you gargle with a cold:

  • chamomile decoction;
  • calendula;
  • eucalyptus;
  • Oak bark.

They will only have a local effect, so they are safe for pregnant women. Some doctors recommend sage, but it must be used very carefully and not ingested. Sage leaves are classified as hormone-like agents.

The expectorant herbs licorice and thermopsis are contraindicated. For a short time, you can use breastfeeding based on the following types:

  • marshmallow;
  • oregano;
  • coltsfoot;
  • plantain.

To treat a wet cough or thin the sputum, you need to mix the components in equal proportions. Take a tablespoon of the mixture and pour a glass of boiling water over it, simmer for 15 minutes. Cool and strain. Take half a glass 2 times a day before meals. The duration of treatment should not exceed 1 week.

Rosehip is not contraindicated throughout pregnancy; its fruits can be added to tea during the cold season. Raspberries accelerate cervical ripening and can lead to premature birth. Therefore, it is not used to treat colds until the last stages. It is allowed to drink tea with raspberry leaves after 34 weeks if there is no risk of premature birth.

For cystitis and kidney diseases

Cystitis is a common occurrence in pregnant women. Decreased local immunity, impaired urine flow due to the growing fetus, and vaginitis contribute to the introduction of infection into the bladder. It is impossible to cure inflammation with the help of medicinal preparations; antibiotics are needed that act against microbial flora. But cystitis preparations can reduce inflammation, improve the flow of urine and speed up its excretion from the kidneys.

Herbal treatment is one of the most ancient methods of healing, which remains popular to this day. During pregnancy, mothers are very limited in the choice of medications, so they often resort to folk remedies, including herbal medicine. But are herbs really that harmless during pregnancy? Despite its apparent simplicity, any “herb” is a medicine, so its use must be thoughtful and balanced.

The complexity of herbal medicine is confirmed by the fact that there is a separate medical specialty - herbal medicine, this doctor deals with herbal treatment. If possible, then before treatment, a pregnant woman should definitely consult with him, or at least consult with her obstetrician-gynecologist.

Herbal medicine during pregnancy: pros and cons

In obstetrics, herbal medicine is of great importance, since many medications have a negative effect on the fetus. Because of this, conventional treatment is either completely contraindicated, or its timing is greatly reduced. Herbs can be taken in long courses, which is important for many chronic pathologies aggravated during pregnancy.

Another advantage of herbal medicine is the possibility of using herbs for prevention. If a woman knows that she is predisposed, for example, to edema, then to prevent it she can take small doses of medicinal plants. This will not work with tablets - they are prescribed strictly according to indications, when the pathology has already developed. You can also take restorative decoctions and mixtures during epidemics, which will reduce the risk of contracting the flu or ARVI.

Another area where herbs help, but tablets (except for tablets with extracts of the same herbs) do not, is the emotional sphere of a pregnant woman. Pregnancy itself is a powerful stress factor, and if unfavorable circumstances are superimposed on this, then it can be difficult for the expectant mother to cope with negative emotions on her own. Herbal teas can cope with this task, and most importantly, they can be taken in any trimester of pregnancy in long courses.

However, herbal medicine has its disadvantages. The main danger is taking a medicinal plant that is harmful to pregnancy.

Unfortunately, there is very little information on packs of herbal medicines. Many of them do not contain any instructions on the safety of taking the herb during or when planning pregnancy, so you have to look for information on the World Wide Web. Here you may encounter another problem – inconsistency of information.

This article was written using several sources of literature (textbooks for medical schools, recommendations of the Ministry of Health, medicinal reference books and scientific articles), but even in these sources there are indications of controversial data or insufficient knowledge. We tried to collect the most complete information in one article in order to protect pregnant women when treated with pharmaceutical plants.

Disadvantages also include the long development of the desired effect. Therefore, most often, in case of severe problems, herbal medicine is prescribed as an adjuvant. The following scheme is often used: simultaneous initiation of treatment with herbs and other medications, discontinuation of medications and maintenance of the therapeutic effect with the help of herbs alone.

What herbs should not be taken during pregnancy?

So, the main question that interests us is which herbs should not be used during pregnancy. There are two groups of contraindications – absolute and relative. Not many herbs have absolute contraindications for pregnancy, but in the relative period of gestation it is very common.

Prohibited herbs during pregnancy:

  • all types of wormwood herbs and some types of ginseng, unofficial in Russia, are absolutely contraindicated because they have a teratogenic effect;
  • comfrey, sassafras leaves are also absolutely contraindicated, because they can have teratogenic and carcinogenic effects;
  • juniper fruits - increase;
  • plants containing alkaloids, for example, ergot, periwinkle, godson, sanguinaria - have a toxic effect;
  • many laxative herbs - buckthorn bark, senna leaves, aloe leaves, echinacea flowers and pepper fruits - affect not only the smooth muscles of the intestines, but also the muscles of the uterus, causing its contraction;
  • nettle and mistletoe (dead nettle) can increase blood clotting and improve smooth muscle tone;
  • herbs that have an estrogen-like effect - licorice root, anise, hop cones, sage.

Herbs that are not recommended for pregnant women if there are episodes of increased uterine tone or there are problems with pregnancy due to shortening and softening of the cervix:

  • herbs of oregano, thyme (thyme), yarrow;
  • pennyroyal, or flea mint;
  • sea ​​kelp;
  • fumitory;
  • raspberry leaves and fruits;
  • chamomile flowers;
  • motherwort;
  • aloe leaves.

Herbs that are dangerous during pregnancy if the expectant mother has kidney disease (except with a direct prescription from the attending physician!):

  • herbs that irritate the kidney parenchyma - madder, juniper, pine and birch buds, horsetail grass;
  • herbs that cause increased excretion of oxalates - all parts of lingonberries and cranberries, bearberry leaves, rhubarb root.

For the prevention of ARVI

During the epidemic season, you can take the following herbs that are useful during pregnancy: calendula flowers, small quantities of chamomile flowers and calamus rhizomes, rose hips, rowan, strawberry leaves, coltsfoot.

The safest method of prevention is rinsing the throat and mouth with infusions of chamomile or calendula - they have virtually no overall effect, but prevent the contamination of the oropharynx with viruses.

Correction of iron deficiency anemia

The best effect was found when using a collection of medicinal herbs allowed during pregnancy. It includes St. John's wort herb - 20 g, black currant fruits - 20 g, sea buckthorn fruits - 20 g, dandelion root - 20 g. Mix the herbs. Two tbsp. l. pour 400 ml of boiling water over the mixture of herbs, leave for 30 minutes, strain and drink hot, 0.5 cups 2-3 times a day before meals for 1-2 months.

Cough herbs

What herbs for cough can be used during pregnancy is a very important question, because many traditional expectorants are contraindicated.

Inhalations with chamomile and linden blossom, sage are effective. It is possible to ingest linden blossom decoctions, small amounts of chamomile and coltsfoot herbs, and thermopsis-based preparations. Gargling with chamomile, eucalyptus, sage or calendula is safe.

Help in the treatment of hypertension and edema

For late toxicosis, gestosis in pregnant women, severe edema and development, the following collection is recommended as an auxiliary treatment: rose hips 20 g, chokeberry fruits 10 g, cudweed herb 25 g, mint herb 10 g, bearberry leaf 15 g, birch leaf 10 g, strawberry 10 g.

A tablespoon of a mixture of herbs during pregnancy for edema is poured with a glass of boiling water, allowed to brew for 30 minutes, and filtered. Take 50 ml three times a day after meals. Course of treatment: 2–4 weeks.

Correction of emotional state

For a favorable pregnancy, the psycho-emotional state of a woman is of great importance. Unstable mood, tearfulness, irritability - these are indications for the use of sedative herbal medicines. The safest use of soothing teas is that the dosage of herbs is minimal, so they will not harm the fetus, but will have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. Preparations of valerian and motherwort are also used (with caution).

Herbal medicine is a complex science, and medications are not always harmless. But if you approach treatment thoroughly, they will become indispensable assistants during pregnancy.

Many people use herbs during pregnancy without thinking about the consequences. What herbs to drink during pregnancy is decided by the woman herself, often without consulting a doctor, only because a neighbor or mother advised.

However, not all herbs during pregnancy are equally useful, and you cannot decide which herbs are good for pregnancy by relying only on the opinion of uneducated people who simply have experience using them. Now you are carrying a child under your heart, and a rash action can lead to dire consequences.

If you came from a search wanting to know how to end pregnancy with herbs, we will disappoint you. It is not a fact that it will be possible to terminate a pregnancy with herbs, but the fact is that herbs contraindicated during pregnancy will lead to the birth of a sick child and the development of complications in you. You will hurt yourself and your baby.

In the old days, herbal treatment during pregnancy was completely normal, and now there are approved herbs, useful herbs, and your doctor will prescribe them for you. We will introduce you to a list of which herbs are definitely not allowed during pregnancy, as they are guaranteed to cause harm, and to those that are used today.

Many of these herbs were used to terminate pregnancies, but the doses were such that they compromised and crippled the health of the mother. These anti-pregnancy herbs will do more harm than abortion, damaging your liver and kidneys, and even your nervous system. It's like jumping from the 5th floor in hopes of an abortion, at least a very stupid decision.

Careless use of herbs can lead to irreversible consequences for the life of the expectant mother. Using herbal remedies without a doctor’s prescription is a road to nowhere. You shouldn’t risk your life and the life of your unborn baby like that.

To avoid negative consequences, let's take a closer look at the effects of some medicinal plants.

These herbs affect the course of pregnancy itself and can cause miscarriage

Agave ( ) – prescribed to improve immunity, used to treat numerous diseases, from gastritis to skin acne, and is widely used in cosmetology. However, aloe causes a rush of blood to the pelvic organs and can provoke uterine bleeding. For this reason, during pregnancy, as well as during menstruation, uterine bleeding, they cannot be treated.

– barberry preparations increase blood clotting, which can lead to blood clots. In general, barberry has found application in obstetrics and gynecology in England. Thus, it is used in this country for vomiting and diarrhea in pregnant women, for atonic uterine bleeding against the background of an inflammatory process, for endometriosis and in menopause. However, if parts of the placenta are retained and there is bleeding, barberry is contraindicated during pregnancy (due to the risk of blood clots). Causes miscarriages.


Oregano officinalis– helps to increase the secretion of gastric juice, greatly increases blood flow to the uterus, and alleviates the condition during menopause. It is used in the treatment of gynecological diseases, but during pregnancy it is strictly contraindicated, as it increases contractions of the uterine wall and has an abortifacient effect.

(love potion)– is part of seasonings, drugs can cause hyperemia of the pelvic organs, the risk of miscarriage. It is used in gynecology for scanty and painful menstruation, but this plant has been little studied, and its abortive effect by increasing uterine contractions has been accurately confirmed.

Buckthorn brittle (alder buckthorn)– increases intestinal motility, used as a laxative. It is considered a very strong laxative, but during pregnancy, buckthorn is contraindicated; it causes a rush of blood to the pelvis, and can cause bleeding and miscarriage. For the same reason, it is not used for uterine bleeding.
Ergot– preparations from it are used in obstetric practice; ergotamine, one of the substances that make up ergot, causes contraction of the uterine muscles. This is used for postpartum hemorrhage. However, when used during pregnancy and birth act Ergot preparations cause acute fetal hypoxia and miscarriages due to contraction of the uterine muscles. Ergot is very toxic.

- a “magic” remedy for all diseases, but not during pregnancy. Causes spasm of the coronary vessels of the heart and brain. Thins the blood, which creates a risk of bleeding and the risk of miscarriage. You can use it during pregnancy, but very carefully, in small quantities; during breastfeeding it should be completely abandoned, it worsens the taste of milk.

Tansy– the plant is poisonous, its use requires precise dosage, tones the muscles of the uterus, has an antiseptic effect, anthelmintic. It is a widely used “means” for terminating pregnancy at home. However, tansy leads to disruption of fetal development, but does not always cause miscarriage. High risk of having a sick child.

Rhubarb Tangut– an overdose of the plant leads to a rush of blood to the uterus, causes vomiting, and hemorrhage from the rectal veins may occur. Eating rhubarb during pregnancy causes spasmodic contractions of the uterus, and can lead to bleeding and miscarriage.

Radish– the greatest medicinal effect of black radish with honey. It is useful for colds, increases the flow of milk in a nursing woman, but during pregnancy it cannot be used in large quantities. There is an opinion that it creates a risk of bleeding and miscarriage, but radish salads will definitely cause flatulence and significant discomfort during pregnancy.

Curly parsley– parsley preparations are contraindicated at all stages of pregnancy. The supply of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus through the placenta is disrupted. However, most pregnant women do not refuse it, here again it is a question of dose, you can’t have too much, 2 leaves as a seasoning will not harm. The introduction of parsley root into the uterus, as recommended by some healers stuck in the Middle Ages, as an abortifacient, will end with serious consequences for the woman.


Herbs that disrupt uteroplacental blood flow


Hyssop officinalis– increases uterine tone, threat of miscarriage. Included in preparations for anemia, diseases of the cardiovascular system, and gastrointestinal tract. Isoop is used to stimulate scanty menstruation, it is clear that it definitely cannot be used during pregnancy, except for harm, nothing good will happen, and bleeding may develop.


Salvia officinalis (“Greek tea”)– rightly called the “elixir of life”, treats the nervous system and diseases of the respiratory system. Sage is used to stimulate pregnancy, however, if pregnancy has already occurred, sage is strictly contraindicated, as it can provoke a miscarriage; it stimulates the contractile activity of the uterus. Allergic reactions have been observed in children.


Contributes to the birth of a child prone to allergic reactions


Wild strawberries (snitsa, drifting snow, berry)– one of the best medicinal berries. Dilates blood vessels, increases body tone, enhances uterine contractions. Strawberries and any preparations made from them are contraindicated for pregnant women, although the berry is often recommended as a valuable source of vitamins. May cause allergies in children.

Trifid succession (baby grass, scrofulous grass)– indispensable in the treatment of various skin diseases (scrofula, psoriasis), used for preparing baths. When a pregnant woman takes a series of drugs, allergization of the fetus is possible.

May cause birth defects


Sea kale– contains the trace element iodine. In case of an overdose, a picture of iodism appears: allergic runny nose, cough, etc. During pregnancy, many women experience iodine deficiency, which has a very bad effect on the development of the fetus, but an overdose of iodine is also extremely dangerous. Iodine imbalance during pregnancy is the cause of endocrine pathology in children.

Garden spinach– contains oxalic acid, it is recommended to eat young leaves or cook them to neutralize the effect of the acid. In pregnant women, it disrupts the exchange of microelements in bone tissue and its formation. Contraindicated for people with impaired water-salt metabolism. Pregnant women are more likely to have twins. Probably, it is still not contraindicated, since the increased risk of having twins is associated with a large amount of folic acid in it, you just need to use this vegetable in reasonable quantities.

Common sorrel (sour sorrel)– just like spinach, it contains oxalic acid. Oxalic acid, when in excess, disrupts calcium metabolism in the fetus, which can lead to disruption of the formation of the skeletal system of the unborn child. However, this is also a question of dose; if you consume sorrel in reasonable quantities, there will be no problems.


They harm the mother of the child


Common Mordovnik- affects pain receptors, enhances muscle tone. Echinops preparations are strictly contraindicated for pregnant women due to their high toxicity and negative effects on the mother.

Licorice glabra (sweet root, licorice)– Herbs for coughs during pregnancy are often prescribed. According to Chinese doctors, licorice is equivalent to ginseng and rejuvenates the body. Negative effects: disrupts water metabolism, promotes the formation of edema, as a result of which there is a risk of developing late gestosis and eclampsia in pregnant women.

Infusion of birch mushroom (chaga)– used in the complex treatment of malignant tumors. Use is limited for people prone to edema, including during pregnancy. In addition, the infusion of birch mushroom is very highly allergenic, and this also limits its use during lactation and pregnancy.

Herbs that worsen the course of early and late toxicosis



Only an experienced herbalist who has received specialization in obstetrics and gynecology can prescribe drugs from this group. The herbalist should keep in mind that the dosages used for pregnant women are different. Infusions and decoctions should be less concentrated; large doses are undesirable and have a detrimental effect on the unborn child.

Cause gastrointestinal disorders: vomiting, gastroduodenal reflux, diarrhea, etc.


Marsh rosemary– the plant has a sharp, intoxicating odor and bitter taste. It's poisonous. If the dosage is not followed, it causes nausea, dizziness, and in large doses leads to paralysis of the respiratory center. Used in the complex treatment of bronchial asthma.

(cat grass, aromatic)– it is not recommended to use it for more than two weeks; in case of an overdose, you can get the opposite effect: stimulation of the nervous system, headache, nausea, disruption of normal heart function.

Clover officinalis (lipa, malyasnik)- the plant is poisonous. With prolonged use and an incorrectly prescribed dosage, poisoning phenomena are observed: nausea, vomiting, liver damage, hemorrhages under the skin and into muscles, internal organs.

Zhoster laxative– increases intestinal motility, causes diarrhea, nausea, vomiting. Refers to strong laxatives of plant origin. Zhoster during pregnancy can be prescribed for a short period of time according to strict indications.

Wormwood– is the first remedy for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. The drug should not be taken for a long time (no more than 2 months); it can cause disturbances in the functioning of the nervous system: convulsions, hallucinations, mental disorders.

Greater celandine (Adam's head, warthog, yellow milkweed)– is a poisonous plant, indicated for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, used to treat skin diseases. The daily dose is 1 glass of infusion, when taking celandine, other herbs are prohibited. Contraindicated for use by patients with diseases of the nervous and cardiovascular systems.

Herbal infusions prescribed for arterial hypotension can cause a significant increase in blood pressure



Sandy immortelle– prescribed for liver diseases and biliary dyskinesia. Preparations made from it are non-toxic and can be used during pregnancy, but it should be remembered that immortelle can accumulate, which is accompanied by congestion in the liver. For this reason, short-term use strictly as prescribed and under the supervision of a doctor.


St. John's wort– included in many collections: diseases of the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract. St. John's wort is contraindicated during pregnancy; its seeds can cause miscarriage, and the plant itself is toxic to the fetus. Not used in any form.

Negatively affects the urinary and excretory system



Calamus marsh (cinquefoil, Tatar potion)– a tonic, recommended as a diuretic, helps smokers get rid of addiction. They also treat gynecological diseases, but calamus is contraindicated for use during pregnancy.

Blue cornflower (blue, blue)– prescribed for edema of renal and cardiac origin, relieves spasm of the bladder. The cyanide component has a negative effect on pregnancy.

Elecampane tall (wild sunflower, Oman)– indicated during periods of severe cough, improves bowel function. Contraindicated in kidney disease and pregnancy.

Madder– loosens and removes small stones and sand from the renal pelvis and bladder. The drugs are contraindicated for gastric ulcers and renal failure.

Common juniper (berries)– thanks to essential oils, the air in the juniper grove is sterile. Used as a strong diuretic and choleretic agent. The berries are poisonous, and should not be consumed in case of acute kidney disease, gastritis, colitis, or pregnancy.

Rhododendron golden– the plant is poisonous, in case of poisoning there are disorders of the cardiovascular system: slowing of the heartbeat, drop in blood pressure, impaired kidney function, salivation, spasmodic pain in the intestines.

Sweet celery– consumption of celery weakens the harmful effects of smoking, removes sand, is useful for men, and increases diuresis. It is not used during pregnancy due to its pronounced diuretic effect.

Dill– used as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of urolithiasis, when red blood cells are detected in the urine. Of course, few pregnant women are able to completely give up this seasoning, but caution should be exercised.

Herbs that affect blood clotting factors



During pregnancy and directly during childbirth, situations are observed when the prothrombin index may increase (for example, with a disease such as thrombophlebitis) or, on the contrary, blood clotting may decrease with severe perforated bleeding.

During childbirth, the situation is aggravated by the fact that the area of ​​the placenta is quite large, the coagulation system cannot cope with the situation of thrombus formation, then instead of the formation of blood clots, the situation is exactly the opposite, and disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome develops. A very dangerous complication when the blood completely stops clotting.

You cannot take drugs and herbs that increase blood clotting without a doctor’s prescription. There is no need to create additional stress on the coagulation system and provoke the occurrence of DIC syndrome. The coagulation system is very fragile; you should not uncontrollably take medicinal herbs that increase blood clotting, as well as if you are prone to bleeding.

Bird's knotweed, kidneyweed, pepper– used for hemorrhoidal and uterine bleeding, therefore, increases blood clotting. Affects the contractility of the smooth muscles of the uterus, with the threat of termination of pregnancy. May cause abortion or premature birth.

Burnet (officinalis)- hemostatic agent. The pharynx is treated after removal of the tonsils to stop bleeding. Used for uterine, gastric, hemorrhoidal bleeding. Causes an increase in blood clotting ability, which can cause thrombophlebitis in a pregnant woman, depletion of the coagulation system and bleeding during childbirth. Burnet is contraindicated for pregnant women.

Cat's paw (immortelle, white caraway)– clearly increases blood clotting, contraindicated in thrombophlebitis. Since pregnant women are prone to varicose veins, the cat's paw is not used for them.

Stinging nettle– contraindicated for people with increased blood clotting, avoid the elderly to avoid the formation of blood clots, for the same reason it is contraindicated for pregnant women. Common corn (corn silk) - used for diseases of the biliary tract and liver. Contraindicated in case of increased blood clotting.

Common groundsel– contributes to the occurrence of tachycardia, dry mucous membranes. Carcinogenic effect has been established. Contraindicated for pregnant women, as it also affects the blood coagulation system.

Herbs that affect the production of sex hormones



Changes hormonal levels. Used in some cases in pregnant and lactating women.

Dandelion officinalis– used in nursing women to increase lactation. In general, herbalists write only good things about dandelion for pregnant women. However, pregnancy and breastfeeding are still on the list of contraindications for its use; you should consult your doctor.

Walnut– the amount of vitamin C exceeds citrus fruits by 50 times. An overdose causes spasm of cerebral vessels, affects coagulation, increases it, and can cause insomnia. Walnuts can be consumed by pregnant women but only in small quantities, no more than 1-2 per day.

Melissa officinalis (lemon grass, mother plant)
– used for overstimulation of sexual function, neuroses of various origins. Melissa is a valuable herb that sometimes helps to cope with the manifestations of early toxicosis. However, due to the large amount of aromatic oils, it should be consumed in very moderate quantities. Contains a lot of estrogens.

Common hop– in large doses the plant is poisonous. Prescribed for thrombophlebitis, as well as a sedative and hypnotic. During pregnancy, hops are contraindicated in any dose, as they are toxic to the fetus and negatively affect the mother’s hormonal levels and high estrogen levels.

Cinquefoil anserina (crow's foot)– increases blood clotting, prescribed for bleeding gums as a rinse, strong diuretic effect. Affects hormonal levels (many estrogens), can provoke thrombophlebitis, postpartum hemorrhage.

Black currant– increases hemoglobin, improves digestion, a sedative for headaches, and is used for bleeding of various etiologies. Since the berry is rich in phytoestrogens, it should not be abused during pregnancy; it may also have a negative effect on the blood coagulation system.

Common yarrow (breast grass)– dilates blood vessels, used for internal and external bleeding, to increase milk production. Contains estrogens and for this reason is not used during pregnancy; it can cause premature birth or miscarriage.

Herbs that enhance immunity with stimulating effects



Aralia Manchurian, lure's grass, common ginseng (root of life, man-root), Leuzea safflower (maral root, deer grass), Schisandra chinensis, Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus (wild pepper).
Drugs of this group are used as tonics for physical and mental fatigue.

In case of overdose, tachycardia, insomnia, decreased sexual potency, and dizziness are observed. If it is necessary to use drugs from this group, first consult with your doctor and determine the dosage.


Group of poisonous plants



It is impossible not to pay attention to herbs that belong to the group of poisonous ones. If in large doses these herbs are poisons, then when prescribed correctly, in small homeopathic doses they are irreplaceable medicines. Only during pregnancy should an experienced herbalist prescribe such drugs, guided by and not forgetting the effect they can have on the unborn child.


List of poisonous plants:


Avran officinalis– used for heart failure, liver diseases. Henbane (belladonna or belladonna) - treatment strictly under the supervision of a doctor, prescribed for menopausal neuroses, insomnia, and increased irritability.

Common cocklebur– the plant is highly poisonous, a narcotic.

Fumyanka officinalis- used for postpartum hemorrhage.

Larkspur high- in case of overdose causes paralysis of skeletal muscles.

European hoofweed- increases blood flow to the pelvic organs, promotes heavy bleeding.

Flat-leaved ragwort- has a hemostatic effect.

Yellow egg capsule– in small doses causes excitation, in large doses – inhibition of the central nervous system.


European swimsuit– used for gastrointestinal diseases.

Bird cherry– treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, festering wounds, diuretic effect.

Chistets forest- stops uterine bleeding, cleanses the uterus in the postpartum period.

Kirkazon clematis- used in the treatment of inflammation of the female genital area, an immunomodulator.

Lastoven officinalis– used to cleanse blood and cleanse purulent wounds.


Euphorbia glossy– causes spontaneous abortion, cleanses the uterus after an unsuccessful abortion and when it is inflamed.

Soapwort officinalis- bile and diuretic effect, cleanses the blood.

Comfrey officinalis- stops internal bleeding.

Caustic sedum– cannot be used for cancer and with zero or low acidity of gastric juice.

male fern– highly toxic, contraindicated during pregnancy, low blood pressure, heart failure.

White step- increases coagulability, is used as a hemostatic agent.

Peony evasive (maryin root, heart berries)– regulates the menstrual cycle well, helps with cancer, has an abortifacient effect.

Open lumbago, Ruta fragrant (fragrant)– has an abortifacient effect and is contraindicated for small children.

Common lilac– flowers used as food during lilac flowering protect against diabetes, treatment of mastopathy, erysipelas.

Horsetail– drugs are contraindicated for nephritis and nephrosis, have a pronounced diuretic effect, stop bleeding.

Common wormwood (chernobyl, white wormwood, wild pepper)- contraindicated in any stage of pregnancy, increases blood clotting. Good antiseptic, general strengthening effect.

Yarutka field– used to treat sexually transmitted diseases, affects sexual function in women and men.

Savory– affects the functioning of the adrenal glands, which, in turn, increase the tone of the pelvic organs, due to which an abortive effect occurs.

Shepherd's Purse– drugs are contraindicated for thrombophlebitis due to the content of vitamin K, which accelerates blood clotting. Recommended for women with debilitating bleeding during menopause, bleeding after childbirth and abortion. Used during childbirth to enhance labor.

White anemone– used as an antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and abortifacient.

Laurel bark and roots– on the one hand, it is used as a means for treating infertility (20 g of the substance), on the other hand, large doses of the drug (1.5-1.62 g) have an abortifacient effect.

Squirting cucumber– all parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the pulp of unripe fruits. Used for malignant neoplasms of the uterus, it has a diuretic and abortifacient effect.

Finally



Herbs may be more dangerous for a pregnant woman than traditional medicines, since their composition is little studied and variable, depending on many factors, on where the grass grew, in what period it was collected, and even on what the summer was like. An overdose of the medicinal component of the herb can easily be obtained if the preparation technology is violated. The unpredictability of the effects of herbs and the presence of unexpected side effects when used in pregnant women are factors that make self-medication with herbs during pregnancy unacceptable.

On the Internet you can find pages that offer direct herbal recipes for miscarriage. Understand one thing, this is more dangerous than a traditional abortion, and these articles are intended for desperate women who are ready for any experiments on themselves. They were created by people without conscience and shame.

Take care of yourself and make the right decisions.



Random articles

Up