Herbs to avoid during pregnancy

More and more, people are turning to natural, homeopathic and herbal remedies for common problems.  In addition, many people use herbs for other purposes, such as increased energy and memory improvement. 

During pregnancy, it is particularly important to be aware of what you are taking into your body.  While many herbal products are relatively safe for an individual to take, some may cause certain problems for a pregnant women.  For example, herbs that are emmenagogues or have oxytocic properties should be avoided at all cost during pregnancy as they promote menstruation.  These herbs can induce abortions and cause miscarriages by causing sever cramping in the uterus.

The following herbs should be avoided during pregnancy:

-  Pennyroyal
-  Black Cohosh
-  Goldenseal
-  Rue Damiana
-  Mugwort
-  Blue Cohosh
-  Juniper
-  Mistletoe
-  Bearberry
-  Oregon Grape Root
-  Poke Root
-  Wormwood
-  Tansy
-  Southernwood
-  Cotton Root
-  Cat’s Claw
-  Dong Quai
-  Angelica
-  Lemon Balm (Fresh)
-  Vervain
-  Osha Root
-  Birthwort Root
-  Beth Root
-  Lovage
-  Feverfew
-  Thuja
-  Male Fern
-  Hyssop Lf.
-  Peruvian Bark
-  Sumac Berries
-  Sweet Flag Root
-  Liferoot (Flowers)
-  Wood Sorrel (Fresh)
-  Ma-huang (Ephedra)
-  Senna
-  Cascara
-  Sagrada
-  Turkey Rhubarb
-  Soy Products (Tofu)
-  Buckthorn
-  Buchu
-  Mandrake
-  Evening Primrose
-  Queen Ann’s Lace seeds
-  Saw Palmetto
-  Stillingia
-  Uva Ursi
-  Yohimbe

Some common cooking herbs to avoid include:

-  Basil
-  Caraway Seeds
-  Celery Seeds
-  Ginger
-  Horseradish
-  Savory
-  Marjoram
-  Nutmeg
-  Rosemary
-  Saffron
-  Sage
-  Parsley
-  Tarragon
-  Thyme
-  Watercress
-  Carrot Seed
-  Licorice Hops

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