How Do You Avoid Harmful Herbs During Pregnancy?
Many pregnant women assume that, because they are natural, herbs are safer to use than conventional medications. In fact, many herbs are unsafe for use during pregnancy and can cause irreversible damage to a mother and her unborn child. Unfortunately, there is not much scientific data regarding the effects of herbs on pregnancy, so use herbs judiciously and sparingly to avoid complications. Examine the ingredients of herbal teas. Many herbal teas, even those marketed as safe during pregnancy, contain natural ingredients that can cause uterine contractions and miscarriage if consumed in large quantities. Due to the brewing process, potentially harmful chemicals in herbs are more heavily concentrated in teas than in other food products. Remember, the FDA does not regulate most herbs, so product quality varies significantly. Typically, the best herbs are the most expensive, but this is not always the case. If you have a midwife or natural health care provider, she may have a reliable sour