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Warning about herbs
Dear Anai,
Do you have a list somewhere on this site of herbs I should avoid during my
pregnancy? Anything you can tell me, I would greatly appreciate it!
Thank you for your help!
Mandrah from Istanbul
Answer:
Herbs are Mother Nature's little miracles, or so we have been taught to
believe. There are a vast number of herbs used to treat any almost any ailment
you can think of. There are of course herbs to avoid completely during your
pregnancy. Seeing how certain herbs become a balance between life or death in
unborn babies, one can only imagine what they really do in adults when given
certain amounts.
Examine the labels of the herbal vitamins you have currently at home, or
those you plan to purchase at the store. Look for any of the following herbs on
the labels. These should be avoided:
Thuja Occidentalis also called Arbor Vitae. This can be
potentially fatal to a growing fetus. This may bring on your menstrual cycle by
force, and cause uterine contractions. If you have irregular cycles and are not
pregnant, please be advised that you must contact your doctor before taking this
or any herbs to stimulate your menstrual period.
Cumin seed or powder This is typically used in India. It is a flavour
enhancer that spices up stews, meats, and vegetables. It can cause pre-mature
labour, miscarriage or cramping. If you are planning to go out for lunch of
dinner, ask the waiter/waitress if Cumin powder or seed is added to the meal you
are interested in.
Sassafras Albidum Also known simply as Sassafras. This known to cause
birth defects and uterine contractions that may or may not lead to a miscarriage
or pre-term labour.
Black Cohosh Also known as Cimicifuga Racemosus. Do not take
this herb unless your doctor has specifically told you to. It promotes early
contractions.
Colichicum Autumnale Also known as Autumn Crocus. This may
cause birth defects due to abnormal cell division. This is especially dangerous
in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Golden Seal Also known as Hydrastis Canadensis. This is
considered a uterine stimulant, and can lead to pre-mature labour or miscarriage
through strong contractions.
Cinchona Officinalis Also known as Peruvian Bark. Typically
given to malaria patients, this herb can cause the mother-to-be to slip into a
coma, become permanently blind or even die as a result. If you see this herb
added in your herbal mixture, do not use it. It can be highly toxic.
Anise or Aniseed oil Also known as Pimpinella Anisum. The Anise
itself is safe in small amounts. The Aniseed oil should be avoided altogether.
May bring on early contracts and possible miscarriage.
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Also known as Licorice. If you intake too
much Licorice, your blood pressure may skyrocket. Eat Licorice in moderation.
Angelica Polymorpha Var. Sinensis Also known as the popular Dong
Quai. This herb can bring on strong contractions and should be avoided
during pregnancy.
Petroselinum Crispum Also known as Parsley. Use this in
moderation in the meals you prepare. As innocent Parsley seems, it can make your
baby restless if you eat too much of it. In addition, Parsley is considered a
uterine stimulant, which may lead to miscarriage.
Other household spices, oils and herbs to use in moderation are:
- Oregano
- Peppermint oil
- Marjoram
- Celery seed
- Celery oil
- Thyme oil
- Nutmeg
- Nutmeg Oil
- Bitter Orange
- Basil oil
- Sage
- Saffron
- Sage oil
The ones just mentioned have been known to cause pre-mature labour or
miscarriage.
©2000-2004 Anai Rhoads.
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