What herbal medications are safe to take during pregnancy?
With the exception of ginger for the relief of morning sickness, echinacea in the 2nd and 3rd trimester for the relief of colds/flu or raspberry leaf in the last trimester, avoid herbal preparations during pregnancy unless prescribed by your healthcare professional. Raspberry leaf has traditionally been used to prepare the uterus for birth (“partus praeparator”) and to assist the uterus to return to normal after birth (involution). A raspberry leaf supplement is recommended in the third trimester of pregnancy. Ginger helps to reduce spasm and relax the digestive system, which in turn enhances digestive function. Ginger may help to relieve the symptoms of morning sickness and travel sickness. Echinacea has traditionally been used for the relief of symptoms of mild upper respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu.
