Lesson 4: Alternative Therapies and Treatments
Herbs You Should Avoid and Why

Many people believe that because herbs are natural and come from Nature, they are all safe and don't have side effects. Unfortunately, this is not true. Unless you are well versed in the usage and dosage of herbs and herbal preparations, you should never self-medicate, no matter what the label of the product states.

Here we will discuss some of the more common herbs to avoid if you are trying to conceive or are already pregnant. Please take heed of this listing, and print out this section so you can review the ingredient list of products you have either already purchased or are thinking of purchasing.

This listing is not complete by any means! Before using any herbal containing product, always consult with your doctor or herbalist.

Black Cohosh and Blue Cohosh - These two herbs should NEVER be taken while trying to conceive or while pregnant. They cause uterine contractions, which can lead to miscarriage during pregnancy. They can be taken, in very small doses and only under the supervision of a Midwife or Herbalist, during the last two weeks of pregnancy. Many 'herbal vitamin' products contain either black or blue cohosh, so always read the ingredient label.

Pennyroyal - Both the American and European types of Pennyroyal must be avoided while trying to conceive or if pregnant. Like the cohoshes, it is also a uterine stimulant and causes contractions. It is also possible that it would cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy. This herb was used in the past to induce abortions, and had resulted in hemorrhaging and even in death. AVOID THIS HERB!!!

Ginger - Although in the correct dose ginger can be used to alleviate nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, it should not be used while trying to conceive or during very early pregnancy due to the possibility of birth defects. There are other, safer herbs, that can be used to alleviate nausea and vomiting, and in my opinion, ginger should be avoided.

Dang Quai - As mentioned in the previous section, this herb can cause uterine contractions and possibly birth defects, so it should be avoided after ovulation and throughout pregnancy.

Licorice - Both men and women that are trying to conceive should avoid this herb. Licorice can reduce the level of testosterone in men, which can hamper quality sperm production. It is also advised that pregnant women avoid this herb as well. Licorice can increase blood pressure and increase water retention as well.

Fenugreek - This is another uterine stimulate, which should not be used when trying to conceive or during pregnancy. The uterine contractions that it can cause can result in a miscarriage.

As I have already stated, this list is not extensive. Before self-medicating with any herbal product, always consult with a trained herbalist and/or your doctor.