Herbal Remedies During Pregnancy
When it comes to using herbs during pregnancy, the first question that often arises is, "Is it safe?" Unlike pharmaceuticals, which must be proven unsafe before being restricted, herbal remedies operate under different standards. This disparity means there is often limited "evidence" available regarding the safety of most herbal remedies during pregnancy.
Safety is subjective and varies from person to person. What one person may consider safe, another might not. Each woman's body and risk assessment is different. An herb that might cause issues in large, frequent doses may not necessarily do so in smaller, infrequent doses over a few days. Nuance is everything in this context.
Remember, you are the sole authority over your body. Body literacy—understanding and knowing your own body—is what ultimately keeps you safe.
Herbal Remedies for common pregnancy symptoms
Colds and Flu
Herbalists typically avoid suppressing coughs since they serve a purpose. However, if a cough is severe and you need rest, honey (infused with an antispasmodic like sage) can be as effective as over-the-counter cough syrups, additionally, the following herbs can be helpful:
Mullein: Useful for hard or stuck mucus.
Elecampane: Helps with a junky, rattling cough.
Constipation
Cleavers Tincture: Effective for relieving constipation.
Fatigue
Green Tea: When consumed with meals can reduce the crash that often follows caffeine consumption.
Liver Pills: Taken consistently throughout the day, especially around 2-3 AM and 2-3 PM.
Fresh Ginger: Acts as a modulator.
Mint: Refreshing and can boost energy.
Second Trimester Supplements:
Lion's Mane: Helps with pregnancy brain fog.
Astragalus
Magnesium
Headaches
Adrenal Cocktail: General formula includes 375mg potassium, 400-600mg sodium, 200mg magnesium, and 60mg whole food vitamin C. One recipe is 1/4 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup coconut water, and a pinch of sea salt. There are many variations available online.
B2/Riboflavin: 400 mg daily.
Blue Vervain: Known for its calming properties.
Caffeine: ½ to 1 cup of coffee can help alleviate headaches.
Ginger: 500-1000mg, taken 3-4 times daily.
Hemorrhoids
Nettle Infusion: Can provide relief from hemorrhoids.
Witch Hazel: Applied externally on a cotton pad is soothing.
Morning Sickness
Fresh Licorice
Ginger: Up to 1 gram per day total. Ginger candy and teas are also options.
Liver Support/Adaptogen Coffee: My favorite is Detox & Chill: Adaptogenic Herbal Coffee from Subluna Botanicals.
Peppermint: Can be taken as a tea in combination with ginger.
Dandelion Root Tincture: 10-15 drops in water or ginger ale, up to four times a day.
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): 10-25 mg, taken three to four times daily.
Sleep Support
Naps: Even short cat-naps can be beneficial.
Magnesium: 400-800mg daily of Magnesium Glycinate has been shown to decrease leg cramps, reduce time to sleep onset, and reduce the number of awakenings.
California Poppy: Helpful for those who toss and turn or have difficulty getting comfortable.
Passionflower: (Passiflora incarnata) helpful for those who have monkey mind with racing thoughts when trying to sleep
Lavender: Use a lavender bath or hydrosol before bed to promote relaxation. I DO NOT recommend Lavender Essential Oils due to their potential estrogenic effects.
Navigating the use of herbs during pregnancy requires careful consideration and a nuanced approach. While many herbal remedies can be beneficial, it's essential to tailor their use to your individual needs. Trusting in your body's wisdom and understanding its signals is the key to safely incorporating herbs into your pregnancy journey.
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