Herbs For Pregnancy
Safe Herbs for Pregnancy
Herbs have a long history of use in pregnancy, and many are considered not only safe but beneficial to the pregnant body. Herbs have been used in a medicinal and ritualistic manor for as long as we can trace back in history, but they can also be a part of everyday wellness. In this post I will cover the main herbs recommended for pregnancy and the benefits they hold.
Red Raspberry leaf (Rubus Idaeus) | I am almost certain you have heard of this one. Red Raspberry Leaf is most commonly consumed as a tea. These leaves hold many benefits including containing polyphenols which reduce inflammation in the body, antioxidants, vitamin C and B as well as zinc and magnesium. Red raspberry leaf is considered a uterine support herb and is believed to reduce length of labor. Red Raspberry Leaf is safe to use as a daily tonic/support herb. Drink 1-2 Cups per day, enjoy hot or iced.
Nettle (Urtica dioica) | Nettle is another herb most commonly consumed in the form of tea. Nettle leaf when cooked loses its stinging properties and leaves behind a long list of benefits. Nettle is a fall favorite for its immunity boosting, allergy defense and respiratory support. It also eases digestive upset, inflammation, skin irritation, and overall cardiovascular health. Nettle should be consumed in moderation and not exceed more than 1-2 Cups daily, it can be enjoyed hot or cold, and with a spoonful of local honey to really boost those allergy fighting properties.
Peppermint (Mentha Piperita) | A common household herb. beloved for its bold and memorable flavor. Peppermint can be safe when consumed properly. A cup of peppermint tea is a safe way to reduce nausea and headaches. Peppermint can also be used topically as an oil for nausea relief, and to soothe skin irritation, but it is never recommended to consume peppermint oil in pregnancy. When peppermint leaves are consumed via tea or fresh, they also provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some also report improved cognitive function when consuming mint, pregnancy brain anyone? Give peppermint a try. Consume in moderation of 1 cup daily or for taste when adding fresh mint to meals.
Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis) | Lemon Balm, like peppermint is in the mint family. Lemon balm is known best for its stress reducing properties. Lemon Balm is also beneficial for reducing digestive upset such as gas and may help improve heartburn symptoms. Enjoy in the form of tea
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla/Chamaemelum nobile) | A member of the daisy family this happy little white flowered plant holds a lot of benefits. It is most commonly consumed in the form of tea. Chamomile is known for its calming/anti-anxiety effects but also has the benefit of being a natural antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunity booster, blood sugar reducer, cardiovascular support herb, and skin soother. This cute little plant can be consumed in a tea in moderation of no more than 1 cup per day and it is recommended to avoid ingestion of it in the first trimester. Chamomile can also be used to soothe skin irritation and aid in wound healing in the form of a salve.
Rosehips/Rosehaw | Rosehips are the fruiting part of a rose plant, the portion that holds the seeds. Rosehip is most commonly consumed in the form of a tea but is also used to make jams and other drinks as well. Rosehips are naturally packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has a long history of use for colds, cough, eczema, and cardiovascular support. Rosehip is recommended to be consumed in moderation of 1 cup or less at a time as it can cause digestive upset in higher amounts.
Oat Straw (Avena sativa) | Oat Straw, while not a “herb”, is an unassuming power house of a plant that I felt needed to be highlighted on. Oat Straw is known to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, boost brain function, and improve mood. Oat Straw is also high in magnesium, iron, and zinc. Oat straw is most commonly consumed as a tea, 1-2 cups per day is safe. It can also be used in a salve to soothe skin irritation.
* While oats are naturally gluten free, many are processed in facilities that also process wheat products. Always check labels or asked where the oat is sourced and how it is processed when purchasing to avoid cross-contamination if you do not make gluten a part of your diet.
