10 Safe Herbs To Take During Pregnancy

 

1. Ginger To Ease Morning Sickness:

This aromatic spice is one of the most effective herbs to ease queasiness experienced during pregnancy. While you can use it in the form of capsules or powder, a warm cup of tea prepared with freshly grated ginger would definitely be palate soothing option. Or just make a concoction of some freshly grated ginger with lemon juice and honey and sip for keeping vomiting at bay. You can even use those crystallized ginger available across supermarkets, but if you are calorie conscious, then stay away.

2. Red Raspberry Leaf For An Easier Labor:

Packed with assorted vitamins, iron, and calcium, this leaf is a blessing for mothers-to-be. Along with toning the uterus and preparing the pelvis for the labor, women who consume this during the third trimester of pregnancy are known to have a shorter labor. You can either use it as tablets or prepare a tea along with rose hips and mint, as red raspberry leaf is not very palate pleasing. While you are allowed to consume about 4 cups during the third trimester, restrict it to a maximum of two cups during the initial stages of pregnancy. However, if you have a history of caesarean or premature labor, please avoid this.

3. Echinacea For Colds:

 

This herb is well known for its anti-cold properties. Studies indicate that this herb does not have any negative impacts on pregnancy. Hence, pregnant women can make use of Echinacea to ease cold and cough while preventing frequent recurrences.

 

4. Cranberry For UTI Prevention:

The antibacterial properties of cranberries can help prevent urinary tract infection of urinary bladder and urethra. Thus, mothers-to-be can intake cranberry, as fruit, juice, or capsules, to thwart off UTI risk.

 

5. Chamomile For Better Sleep:

The growing belly gives you a tough time, hampering with your sleep. Drink your way to a good sleep with chamomile. It helps in relaxing the muscles and also has a calming effect on the nervous system. The soothing taste of this is definitely a treat for your tummy. Sip it, relax, and sleep well!

 

6. Nettle Leaves:

Nettle leaves are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich with vitamins A, C and K and minerals, iron and potassium. It also contains folic acid in adequate amounts. Along with strengthening the kidneys and adrenals to eliminate fluid retention, this also prevents varicose veins and hemorrhoids. This also helps in increasing breast milk. Nettle tea has a green taste and can be easily blended with other herbs.

7. Dandelion Root Tea:

 

Dandelion roots can boost the secretion of digestive juices and bile, thus ensure better digestion. It also detoxifies liver and strengthens it. This root is a good source of calcium and iron, both which have vital roles for the mothers and babies. In short, a tea prepared by infusing this root can bestow various benefits for the would-be moms.

8. Alfalfa:

Alfalfa is a rich source of various nutrients including chlorophyll and vitamin K, both that are quintessential for blood clotting. Intake of this herb for pregnancy, as tea or tablets, during the last trimester could actually cut down postpartum bleeding, preventing hemorrhage. Studies also indicate that the surplus presence of vitamins and minerals in alfalfa aids in improving the quantity and quality of breast milk. Plus, this herb is also known to safeguard pregnant women against gestational diabetes. Being a good source of fiber, it also eases constipation and other digestion disorders experienced during pregnancy.

 

9. Peppermint Leaf To Ease Flatulence:

Peppermint tea is a natural antidote for morning sickness and flatulence; however, it is advisable to limit the consumption to a maximum of two cups a day.

10. Oats And Oat Straw:

 

An excellent source of calcium and magnesium, it is known to ease restlessness, anxiety, and skin irritations during pregnancy. Along with preventing recurring leg cramps, it also improves digestion. This is also helpful to improve the circulation of blood to your uterus and placenta.
While all the above mentioned herbs are free from caffeine and can be enjoyed during pregnancy, it is always advisable to restrict the intake to moderate quantities. Also, please consult your gynecologist before you use any of the herbal teas for pregnancy to avoid any negative impacts.