If you have found that you're expecting, and now you want to know how to support your pregnancy naturally, you've come to the right place! This is the second part in our series on preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum care. For herbs to support fertility, take a look at last week's post. Continue here to learn about which herbs are safe to take while pregnant and for a list of herbs, supplements, and formulas that can help contribute to health during pregnancy and support fetal development.

Taking Herbs Safely During Pregnancy

When it comes to pregnancy, we recommend supplementing with nourishing herbs that provide your body with nutrients it needs to support mother and baby. You will want to avoid any herbs that are classified as emmenagogues or abortifacients, which may pose a risk to your pregnancy.

Some of the herbs you may be taking to increase your fertility and support your hormonal balance prior to pregnancy will need to be stopped once pregnancy has began. Common fertility herbs that we do not recommend during pregnancy include chaste tree berry, dong quai, motherwort, and cramp bark, including formulas containing them, such as Dr. Christopher's Female Reproductive Formula and Dr. Christopher's Female Tonic Formula, and Dr. Christopher's Hormonal Changease.

Common Herbs to Avoid:

• Motherwort
• Mugwort
• Pennyroyal
• Rue
• Black Cohosh
• Blue Cohosh
• Red Cedar
• Angelica
• Goldenseal
• Chaste Tree Berry
• Cramp Bark
• Dong Quai

Herbs & Supplements to Support Pregnancy

Red Raspberry Leaf

In addition to being rich in many vitamins and minerals needed for mother and baby, this herb is known for its uterine toning properties and ability to aid in hormonal balance. The rich antioxidant content of red raspberry can help reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative stress, which can lead to birth defects. This is one of the most popular herbs for pregnancy and womens' health. Red raspberry can be taken as a tea, in capsules, or as an extract.

Red Clover

This nutritious herb can help balance your hormones and alleviate negative symptoms of hormonal changes. This along with its anti-inflammatory effects can help to keep you comfortable during your pregnancy. It can also contribute to cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and reducing cholesterol in the bloodstream, which is important because high blood pressure is a common complication during pregnancy. Red Clover can be taken as a tea, in capsules, or in an extract.

Dandelion

Dandelion is rich in vitamins and minerals, but it is also known for its antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress on the embryo/fetus during pregnancy. In addition, this herb promotes natural bile production and provides liver support, which can reduce the chances of cholestasis of pregnancy. Dandelion is a natural diuretic and can reduce swelling in the feet and ankles, and it is even thought to help the body regulate blood sugar levels, which can support those with gestational diabetes. Dandelion leaf or root can be taken as a tea, in capsules, or as an extract.

Alfalfa

Alfalfa contains phytoestrogens and can help balance hormones and ease hormonal symptoms during pregnancy. It is also very nutrient dense and is high in antioxidants, which protect the growing baby and the placenta from oxidative stress and inflammation. This herb is also a mild laxative and may help relieve pregnancy-related constipation. Some studies suggest that alfalfa may even have the ability to help regulate blood sugar levels, which is essential to the mother and baby's health and can be beneficial in the case of gestational diabetes.

Nettle Leaf

Nettle is rich in many vitamins and minerals, but one of the most notable is iron. Many women experience anemia during pregnancy due to the body's increased need for iron, and nettle is a great way to supplement iron into your diet. Some women also use nettle as a way to alleviate nausea and morning sickness, and the herb is known for its anti-inflammatory and hormone balancing effects. Nettle can be taken as a tea, in capsules, or in an extract.

Moringa

Moringa is a nutrient-dense plant containing many of the vitamins and minerals necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Like nettle, moringa has a high iron content and is used to help prevent anemia. It is also high in antioxidants and is known to reduce inflammation. Moringa is another herb that is thought to help balance hormone levels due to its phytoestrogen content.

Reishi Mushroom

Reishi is valued for its high antioxidant content, which can help protect your baby and placenta from birth defects caused by oxidation, and can help reduce inflammation in the body. Reishi is also known for its ability to support the immune system, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve sleep, all factors which contribute to a healthy pregnancy. Reishi can be taken as a powder, tea, in capsules, or as an extract.

Oatstraw

Oatstraw, like many herbs on this list, is a nutritional powerhouse, full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support you and your baby. It can also help your body regulate hormones and even aid in digestion, helping to relieve pregnancy-related constipation. Additionally, this herb is rich in calcium and magnesium and can contribute to bone health. Pregnancy-related bone density loss is extremely common, and oatstraw can help prevent it and keep your bones healthy and provide the nutritional building blocks for your growing baby.

Milky Oats

Milky oats, also known as oat seed, is a great supplement for pregnancy due to their richness in necessary minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium, and silica. They also contribute to nervous system function and can decrease stress and promote relaxation.

Folic Acid

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9 or folate, is extremely important to healthy pregnancy and fetal development. It is well known to help prevent neural birth defects, which affect the baby's brain and spinal cord. It is also an important ingredient needed for cell division, which is necessary for the baby's growth and development. In addition, folic acid can help prevent pregnancy-related anemia and some women have reported that it reduces symptoms of morning sickness. It is recommended that pregnant women ingest 600mcg of folic acid daily. Below is our recommended prenatal vitamin, which contains 100% of the daily recommended amount of folic acid.

One 'n' Only PreNatal

This once-daily prenatal vitamin is formulated from whole food ingredients and contains nutrients that support fetal development, reduce morning sickness, and aid in digestion. This vitamin is an excellent source of nutritional support for both mother and baby.

Winnie Schwinn® Be Nourished Tea

This extremely nutritious tea blend consists of red raspberry, nettle leaf, dandelion leaf, moringa leaf, red clover, alfalfa, and spearmint and was formulated to provide the necessary antioxidants and nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.

Traditional Medicinals® Pregnancy Tea

This tea blend is filled with herbs used to support pregnancy and women's health such as raspberry leaf, nettle leaf, spearmint leaf, fennel fruit, rose hip, alfalfa herb, and lemon verbena leaf.

Dr. Christopher's Birth Prep Formula

This product is only to be used under a professional health care provider during the last 6 weeks of pregnancy. This formula was created to help prepare the mother's body for the birthing process. While scanning the ingredients for this formula, you may notice a few of the herbs we stated should be avoided at the beginning of this post. While black cohosh and pennyroyal are not recommended during most of pregnancy, these herbs are safe to take during the last six weeks, and offer many benefits in preparing the uterus and reproductive system for the process of birth. This is because these herbs stimulate and strengthen the uterus and can help to regulate contractions, shorten labor time, and assist in uterine recovery after birth. We encourage you to consult an herbalist before beginning to use this formula. Our master herbalist is available Mon-Thurs from 11am-1pm MST, and can be reached by phone at (801)489-4500 or by email at winnieschwinn@gmail.com

Herbs & Supplements for Common Ailments Related To Pregnancy

Nausea

Nausea (often called "morning sickness") is one of the most commonly reported pregnancy-related ailments. Thankfully, there are many natural ways to ease the sensation of nausea.

• Ginger: Used for centuries to treat nausea and other digestive issues, this root is known to help ease inflammation of the stomach, relax the muscles of the digestive tract, and prevent bloating. Ginger tea is a popular way to soothe the stomach, but it can also be taken in capsules or as an extract.
• Peppermint & Spearmint: These herbs are used to treat nausea due to their ability to relax the stomach walls and increase bile production. In addition, their anti-spasmodic properties can contribute to nausea relief. Try making a delicious peppermint tea to help ease the sensation of morning sickness.
• Cloves: This is another ingredient well-known for its ability to soothe nausea. Active compounds in cloves help to reduce gas and bloating, relax and soothe stomach muscles, and reduce stomach inflammation.
• Vitamin B6: Evidence shows that vitamin B6 can help with nausea in a number of ways, including regulating neurotransmitters associated with digestion, balancing hormone levels, and support metabolism.
• Dr. Christopher's Anti-Nausea Tea: This simple recipe was formulated specifically for pregnancy-related nausea by Dr. John R. Christopher. The recipe is as follows:
• 1/2 ounce of spearmint
• 2 teaspoons cloves
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons turkey rhubarb
  Directions: Infuse ingredients in 1 pint of boiling hot water. Cover 20 minutes, strain, and enjoy.

Anemia (Iron Deficiency)

Women are often prone to anemia, and due to increased need for iron during pregnancy, the need to consume enough iron can become even more important. Anemia is a common issue among pregnant women, but thankfully, it is simple to solve by consuming more iron in the diet. Below are several herbs and natural sources of iron you can use to supplement your intake.

• Dandelion: Dandelion leaf and root are excellent for anemia due to their high iron content and richness in vitamin C, which helps the body absorb iron.
• Nettle: Like dandelion, nettle is rich in iron and vitamin C, and it also contains additional nutrients needed for red blood cell production, including vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, and vitamin B complex.
• Dr. Christopher's Herbal Iron: This formula features a blend of herbs rich in plant based iron, including dandelion, beet root, yellow dock, nettle, and spirulina.
• "Peanut Butter Molasses Smoothie" by midwife Melissa Chappell: This recipe, containing iron-rich molasses and peanut butter, is a delicious way to introduce more iron into your diet. Recipe below:
• 1/4 cup of blackstrap molasses
• 1/3 cup natural peanut butter
• 1 frozen banana
• 8 ice cubes
• 2 cups of water
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
  Directions: Blend everything together until smooth and serve.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes affects 5-10% of pregnant women and can lead to serious consequences for both mother and child if left untreated. In addition to working with your doctor and modifying your diet and lifestyle, the below supplements may be helpful for women with gestational diabetes.

• Fenugreek, Berberine, Milk Thistle, and Ginseng: In addition to boosting insulin production, all three of these supplements are known to enhance the effects of insulin, therefore improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels.
• Bitter Melon: Bitter melon is unique in that it contains compounds that mimic insulin, helping to lower blood sugar levels.
• Gymnema: In addition to reducing glucose absorption and facilitating insulin production, gymnema is also known to help reduce sugar cravings.
• Turmeric: Curcumin, the active component in turmeric, helps lower blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and may further reduce symptoms of diabetes. Turmeric can be taken as a tea, in capsules, or as an extract.

Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP)

Cholestasis of pregnancy, or intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), is a liver condition that is caused when pregnancy hormones interfere with normal bile production. Providing support for your liver while pregnant may help prevent development of ICP. Below are a few natural supplements that provide great liver support.

• Dandelion: Dandelion leaf and root are known for their ability to stimulate bile production and detoxify, soothe, and repair the liver.
• Alfalfa: This herb contains nutrients vital for liver function, including vitamins A, C, E, K, and B vitamins. It is also high in antioxidants and valued for its ability to assist in detoxification.
• Milk Thistle: This seed is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components, and, similar to dandelion, is thought to stimulate bile production and assist in liver detoxification and regeneration. Milk thistle can be taken in capsules or as an extract.

Swelling (Edema)

Edema, or swelling of the feet, ankles, or even hands, is an extremely common ailment during pregnancy, causing many expectant mothers discomfort and inconvenience. Edema can stem from a variety of causes, including increased fluid retention and decreased blood flow during pregnancy.

• Dandelion, Nettle, Parsley, and Fennel: These are all natural diuretics, which help the body to expel excess water from the body by increasing the frequency of urination. They also contain antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation.
• Ginger: Due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, ginger has long been used to combat swelling in the body.
• Horsetail: In addition to its natural diuretic properties, horsetail is known for its ability to flush out toxins and cleanse the blood, which may help reduce swelling.

Pre-Eclampsia and Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Gestational hypertension is an issue many women face during pregnancy, and can lead to additional health problems for both mother and baby. In addition, pre-eclampsia, a disease marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine, affects about 5-8% of pregnancies. Keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range before and during your pregnancy can help to prevent pre-eclampsia. Below are several herbs that can aid in reducing blood pressure:

• Garlic: Garlic can help reduce the production of angiotensin II, a compound that causes blood vessels to constrict. It is also rich in antioxidants and can help clear the bloodstream and reduce oxidative stress.
• Ginger: In addition to being high in antioxidants that help cleanse the blood, ginger is an ACE inhibitor, meaning that it has the ability to relax blood vessels and help to lower blood pressure. It is also a natural calcium channel blocker, mimicking several blood pressure medications.
• Hibiscus: Hibiscus is well-known for its cardiovascular benefits. Like ginger, hibiscus is also an ACE inhibitor and can help to widen blood vessels. In addition, its diuretic properties may reduce the amount of fluid in the blood. Both of these effects are likely to result in a lowering of blood pressure. Plus, it makes a delicious tea.
• Nettle: As a natural calcium channel blocker, nettle can help to relax the heart and reduce the force of contractions, thereby lowering blood pressure. Its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties contribute to its ability to lessen hypertension.
• Olive Leaf: Olive leaf facilitates the release of nitric oxide, which helps to dilate the blood vessels. It also contains the powerful compound oleuropein, which acts as both an ACE inhibitor and a calcium channel blocker and has powerful antioxidant abilities.
• Cayenne: Cayenne contains the compound capsaicin, which relaxes blood vessels and acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory. In addition to being used to season food, it can be taken in capsules or as an extract.

Conclusion

When you're expecting a child, it can be overwhelming trying to make sure your pregnancy goes perfectly. Healthy diet, lifestyle, and nutrient intake during pregnancy is crucial for both mother and baby, but it is also important to take a step back and remind yourself that, while it may seem complicated and daunting, the most important thing is that you are listening to your body and providing it with the nourishment it needs. The supplements outlined in this blog post can be helpful in giving your body the assistance it needs on top of the foundation of a nutrient-rich diet.

 

About the Writer Emori Brown has worked for Dr. Christopher’s Herb Shop since 2018. In addition to writing blog posts and newsletters, Emori cashiers and works in the shipping department. She is passionate about providing people with the tools for improving their health and is excited to share knowledge surrounding the formulas and services we have here at the Herb Shop.