The first thing you need to understand is: herbs are medicines. A large number of medicines are made by analogy with the active ingredients of herbs.

This is important to know, especially during pregnancy. Herbs can have hormone-like, abortive, and toxic effects.

During pregnancy, you should try to avoid taking any medications as much as possible. synthetic including vitamins.

Drug treatment should only be used in emergency situations. When there is no longer time to restore health (balance in the body) using gentle methods.

The same rule applies to herbs with a pronounced active effect on the body.

What herbs do we take during pregnancy?

Let's divide herbs into two categories: nutritional and medicinal.

We will talk more about taking "nutritive" herbs because treatment, even with herbs, must be carried out under the supervision of a competent person. The prescription of herbs for treatment should take into account the individual, situation and stage of pregnancy.

Nutrient herbs for prevention, strengthening and harmonization of the body

Ivan-tea (angustifolia fireweed)

This illegally forgotten herb used to be very common in Rus' and was exported as tea. Fireweed tea is tasty and aromatic. If desired, it can be fermented and prepared like black or green tea.

To briefly list useful, important for pregnant women properties of Ivan tea, that is:

• valuable vitamin remedy (the amount of vitamin C, as in black currant berries);
• contains many minerals (iron, manganese and other mineral salts);
• calming effect;
• painkiller;
• enveloping and anti-inflammatory effect;
• antitumor;
• perfectly normalizes sleep, has a calming effect, relieves anxiety. It’s not for nothing that in Rus' they called him a doozy.

If a person is sleepy or lethargic, this tea invigorates and tones. If a person is tired and anxious, then the effect is calming.

It feels like this herb itself finds the right point of application in the body. By the way, she is still improves blood counts(this is very important during pregnancy as blood volume increases).

One drawback, or vice versa, advantage - you need to prepare Ivan tea yourself or buy it from friends. Pharmacy fireweed tea is not tasty (does not reflect the full range of its beneficial properties).

We prepare as follows: in summer we collect 1/3 of the flowers and 2/3 of the leaves at the time of flowering. Next, you need to mash it to release juice. You can do this with your hands - take two or three leaves and twist them in your palms, or you can pass them through a meat grinder, or crush them with a wooden masher.

The second stage is fermentation. Place the leaves that have given juice in dense piles in a dark place (attic, room). Twisted leaves can be pressed on top with a cup, as they will be more “lush” than those passed through a meat grinder.

Fermentation takes place from several hours to a day. This depends on the ambient temperature and the volume of the pile. If you like green tea, ferment it for several hours; if you like black tea, you can ferment it for a day.

When the fermentation process is in full swing, your pile will have a pleasant fruity aroma (at first it smelled like freshly mown hay). And if you put your finger in the middle of the pile, it will be warm there. The temperature rises due to fermentation processes.

The next stage is drying. Dry in the sun, on a warm stove or in the oven. I draw your attention to the fact that we dry it not in the shade, but in the heat. Otherwise your tea will become moldy.

You can drink Ivan-tea every day, like regular tea. Only it is more aromatic and much healthier than black tea.

currant leaf

In medicine, currant leaves are used as a multivitamin in the treatment of vitamin deficiency, anemia (low hemoglobin), cough, to increase appetite, as a diaphoretic for colds.

Currant leaves have a diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic effect, stimulate the functions of the adrenal cortex, promote the excretion of purine substances and uric acid.

In Tibetan medicine, currant leaves are used instead of tea in the treatment of neurodermatitis, eczema, diathesis and enlarged lymph nodes.

In Poland, black currant preparations are used to treat kidney stones (infusions, teas), rheumatism, kidney and liver diseases.

It is impossible to list all the beneficial properties, since they have not been studied. It surprises me that there is more vitamin C in the leaves than in the berries. And currant berries, as you know, have always been considered the richest vitamin product. It contains a complex of vitamins (C, P, B, etc.), carotene, organic acids, tannins, microelements (aluminum, iron, copper, manganese).

For pregnant We are interested in the following properties of currant leaf:

• Helps the kidneys (and the load on the kidneys increases greatly during pregnancy).
• Increases immunity (good prevention of colds in the autumn-spring period).
• Increases hemoglobin levels.
• Vitamins.

Raspberry leaf

Raspberry leaf is a very good herb during pregnancy. It contains phytoestrogens and thereby regulates the muscle activity of the uterus, helps prepare for an easy birth and prevent complications.

You can drink raspberry leaf tea throughout your pregnancy, starting from 8 weeks. And very important drink it during the last 2-3 months of pregnancy. It is believed that it prevents the weakness of labor, prepares the uterus for childbirth (strengthens it), “softens” the tissues of the birth canal, and helps the cervix to open well during childbirth.

Dosage: 2 tablespoons per 1 liter of water - drink like tea throughout the day.

Can be brewed simultaneously raspberry leaf, currant leaf and fireweed.

You can, if desired, add strawberry leaves, mint in small quantities, hibiscus, lemongrass, rosehip, red clover, alfalfa, and nettle.

In folk medicine, raspberry leaves are used:

• when coughing,
• sore throat in the form of rinses,
• for women's diseases,
• for menstrual disorders,
• with influenza with intestinal manifestations,
• to strengthen gums,
• for blood purification,
• for gastrointestinal diseases,
• for hemorrhoids.

Since raspberry leaves have astringent properties, it is better abstain from their use for chronic constipation.

Alfalfa

The leaves contain beta-carotene, vitamins C, D, E, K, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, folic acid, and various minerals including calcium, iron and phosphorus.

Vitamin K is a blood clotting factor that helps prevent bleeding in mother and baby. In the maternity hospital, after birth, children are immediately given an injection with vitamin K, or given drops. This is why drinking alfalfa tea during pregnancy is so beneficial.

Alfalfa increases lactation in nursing mothers.

Alfalfa has a very wide spectrum of action:

• healing of erosions, ulcers, open wounds;
• helps fight infection;
• reduces cholesterol and lipid levels in the blood;
• relaxes smooth muscles;
• helps lower blood sugar levels;
• maintains the balance of intestinal flora;
• increases the elasticity of arteries, prevents the development of atherosclerosis.

Alfalfa has anti-inflammatory properties, which determines its use for cystitis, prostatitis, septic ulcers, arthritis, rheumatism. It promotes the healing of erosions, wounds, ulcers and helps fight infection.

Collection and preparation of herbs

Of course, it is better if you collected the grass yourself, during the most active period for grass. But, unfortunately, this does not always work out. So do it the way it works.

If you don’t have time to stock up yourself, buy from your grandmothers; if you don’t have time to stock up from your grandmothers, buy from the pharmacy.

Raspberry and currant leaf- collect in the spring before flowering and dry in the shade. If you don’t have time to collect before flowering, collect at any time - it will be better than nothing. There is no need to ferment them.

Fresh alfalfa can be collected from the end of April until the fall (add to salads, soup, brew into tea). For the winter, we prepare it during the flowering period. Only leaves and flowers should be harvested; the stems contain almost no active substances. When dried, it acquires a pleasant smell, reminiscent of fresh hay. Add it to the soup and it starts to smell almost like chicken broth.

What herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy?

Teratogenic effect: some types of ginseng, all types of wormwood.

Abortive effect: tansy, rue, oregano, parsley, juniper, lovage, aloe, kirkazon, St. John's wort, high lumbago .

Be careful in the second half of pregnancy ( may cause miscarriage): knotweed, viburnum, shepherd's purse, burnet, barberry, field clove, periwinkle, knotweed, yarrow.

Affect hormonal levels: sage, hops, corn silk, licorice, mint, St. John's wort.

May have a toxic effect on the fetus: mordovnik, larkspur, celandine, sophora, periwinkle, passionflower, wild rosemary, dubrovnik, cocklebur, sweet clover, mistletoe.

Some sources indicate that contraindicated for pregnant women calendula, thyme, centaury, peony root. We will treat them with caution.

Parsley stimulates contraction of the uterine muscles. Women prone to miscarriages should exclude parsley from their food. May cause premature birth.

Many herbs from the "Contraindicated" section can be used during pregnancy as prescribed by a doctor. It is better not to use them yourself.

Materials from the book by O.A. were used for the article. Danilyuk "Herbs for children and mothers. Herbal medicine in obstetrics and pediatrics."

Instructions

During the first trimester of pregnancy, it is worth paying attention to such a common plant as lemon balm. It is an infusion of lemon balm with the addition of mint that will help cope with the unpleasant phenomena of early toxicosis.

When the immune system is weakened and colds develop, light infusions of linden flowers and raspberry leaves help well. Infusions made only from raspberry leaves can be drunk starting from the 31st week of pregnancy, thereby preventing the risk of premature and delayed birth. In addition, raspberry tea helps in relaxing ligaments and speeding up labor.

Calendula, which has special healing properties, is also useful. It is used for varicose veins, hemorrhoids, bleeding gums and treatment of tears and sutures in the postpartum period.

The perennial plant St. John's wort contains vitamin PP, helps to survive stress, and helps lower cholesterol. During pregnancy, it is recommended to take this with caution, in combination with currant leaves to reduce depression.

Chamomile decoctions, infusions of birch leaves and buds are recommended by experts for gargling as an anti-inflammatory agent that relieves pain well. Chamomile decoction also has a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract, helping to normalize stool.

To maintain immunity, it is useful to drink infusions of echinacea, verbena and rose hips. Such teas contain a large amount of vitamins and microelements that have a positive effect on the intrauterine development of the fetus.

An infusion of the following herbs will help solve problems with low blood pressure: hawthorn, St. John's wort with the addition of rose hips. For high blood pressure, a decoction of madder or, the least safe, infusion of valerian root with motherwort is recommended. Motherwort can also be used during periods of neurosis, as it has calming properties.

Tea with the addition of grated or finely chopped ginger will help get rid of morning sickness, giving you additional energy for the whole day. A drink made from fennel has the same properties.

An infusion of hawthorn, motherwort and lingonberry leaves helps remove excess fluid from the body and will provide indispensable help in the fight against edema.

If there is a threat of premature termination of pregnancy, cuff tea will help, which promotes the full development and growth of the baby.

note

Herbs that should absolutely not be taken during pregnancy: primrose, foxglove, barberry, hellebore, cornflower, comfrey, adonis, male fern, arnica, tansy, anise, northern breaker, cinquefoil, knotweed, galega, cassia (senna), evasive peony , sweet clover, oregano, ginseng, hyssop, nettle, burnet, thyme, clover, aromatic rue, shepherd's purse, lovage, juniper, coltsfoot, echinops, lumbago, ergot.

Helpful advice

Remember that infusions, decoctions and herbal teas have a number of contraindications when used during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. All herbs must be used only for their intended purpose and under the strict supervision of specialists.

Medicinal herbs are not harmless toys for those who want to play doctors. A careless attitude towards them, coupled with ignorance, is dangerous!

To avoid trouble, let's put the dried herbal bouquet on the shelves.
Herbs that disrupt the normal course of pregnancy can cause abortion:

* Aloe arborescens - is part of gastrointestinal preparations, preparations that stimulate the appetite, and is prescribed to stimulate the immune system.

* Common barberry – found in anti-anemic preparations, recommended for improving liver function, stimulating appetite, for cholelithiasis, etc.

* Oregano officinalis – used to improve appetite, in gastrointestinal, pulmonary-bronchial, and sedative preparations.

* Lovage officinalis - often used as a seasoning, included in sedatives, expectorants, diuretics and analgesics.

* Buckthorn is used as a laxative and for stomach ulcers.

* Ergot is currently not often used in gynecological practice. Ergot is poisonous and absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy!

* Garlic - widely used in herbal medicine.

* Tansy is poisonous, increases the tone of the uterus, and increases blood pressure. It is part of many preparations: gastrointestinal, for anemia, headaches, swelling, chronic stress.

* Tangut rhubarb is used as a laxative and choleretic agent. May interfere with the formation of fetal bone tissue due to the high content of oxalic acid.

* Radish is prescribed to improve appetite and digestion, for cholecystitis, bronchitis and colds. It may be useful a little later, after childbirth, as it increases lactation.

* Curly parsley is often included in preparations for the treatment of cholelithiasis and urolithiasis, and is used as a diuretic for digestive and menstrual disorders.

Disturb placental blood circulation, that is, blood circulation in the placenta, providing the baby with oxygen and nutrients:

* Hyssop officinalis. In addition, it increases the tone of the uterus, increasing the risk of premature termination of pregnancy. It is part of the collection against bronchial asthma, gastrointestinal diseases, angina pectoris, neuroses, and anemia.

* Salvia officinalis - included in diuretic and gastrointestinal preparations, used as a rinse for colds, stomatitis, sore throats, and used as a seasoning.

May cause an allergic predisposition in a child:

* Tripartite sequence - used in various skin preparations as a diaphoretic and diuretic.

They disrupt the normal development of the child (using these drugs may cause developmental defects in the fetus):

* Sea kale - due to the risk of iodine overdose.

* Garden spinach and sour sorrel - due to the high content of oxalic acid, they can interfere with bone formation in a child.

Have an adverse effect on the maternal body:

* Mordovnik vulgare increases muscle tone and increases sensitivity to pain, and is included in preparations for the treatment of a number of neurological and therapeutic diseases.

* Licorice increases blood pressure and retains water in the body, causing swelling. It is often prescribed for chronic and acute diseases of the lungs and bronchi, and for some endocrine diseases.

* An infusion of birch chaga mushroom also retains water in the body.

Herbs that aggravate the phenomena of early toxicosis and late gestosis
Herbs in this group can sometimes be prescribed to pregnant women, but only for special indications and only by a herbalist who also has an obstetrics and gynecology specialization.

May cause nausea, vomiting, heartburn, flatulence, etc.:

* Ledum marsh is poisonous, causes inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and duodenum, dilates blood vessels, lowers blood pressure. Used mainly as an expectorant for bronchial asthma.

* Valerian officinalis, when taken for a long time or at high dosages, can cause headaches, nausea, inhibit digestion, interfere with heart function and, oddly enough, increase nervousness.

* Sweet clover is poisonous, causing headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. Included in expectorant and diuretic preparations. Prescribed for flatulence, insomnia, rheumatic pain. Zhoster laxative causes irritation of the gastric mucosa with nausea and vomiting. Used as a laxative.

* Wormwood - prescribed to stimulate appetite, as a choleretic and for various chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Wormwood is dangerous if overdosed. It can cause seizures, hallucinations and other mental disorders. It is necessary to take into account that the organisms of a pregnant woman and her child are more sensitive to various chemicals, and doses (including infusions) should be reduced.

* Greater celandine is a poisonous herb and can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory depression. Oral infusion is recommended mainly for diseases of the digestive system.

Increases blood pressure:

* Sandy immortelle - prescribed for diseases of the gallbladder and liver.

Negatively affect kidney function:

* Calamus marsh - contraindicated due to its pronounced diuretic effect, it is part of gastrointestinal and antiulcer preparations.

* Blue cornflower – contains a cyanogen component and requires especially careful handling. Included in choleretic and diuretic preparations, used for cardiovascular and eye diseases, etc. Contraindicated due to the diuretic effect and the content of the cyanide complex.

* Elecampane - used in expectorant and gastrointestinal preparations.

* Madder tincture – irritates the gastric mucosa and is prescribed for urolithiasis.

* Juniper (berries) – used as a diuretic, laxative, diaphoretic, enhances the secretion of gastric juice.

* Golden rhododendron is a poisonous plant, causing severe salivation, vomiting, pain in the stomach and along the intestines, bradycardia, breathing problems, decreased blood pressure, and kidney depression.

* Celery is fragrant.

* Dill is fragrant.

Herbs that affect blood clotting

During pregnancy and childbirth, situations arise in which complications are possible, associated both with increased blood clotting (thrombophlebic complications), and with a decrease in thrombus formation and severe blood loss. And directly during childbirth, when a woman begins to lose blood from a sufficiently large damaged surface (the area of ​​the rejected placenta), the blood coagulation system may be at the limit of its capabilities. And if the bleeding continues (incomplete separation of the placenta, serious ruptures, etc.), these forces may not be enough, in this case, increased thrombus formation turns into its complete opposite: the blood stops clotting altogether, and a very serious complication develops - disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome. Uncontrolled use of drugs (medicines, herbs) that activate thrombus formation during the prenatal period increases the risk of thrombophlebitis. Exhausted by all this even before delivery, the blood coagulation system may not be able to cope with the task even during an uncomplicated birth, and the risk of disseminated intravascular coagulation increases. Given such a delicate balance, it is not worth interfering with the blood coagulation system unnecessarily.

* Bird knotweed, kidneyweed, pepper – except strong blood clotting effect, causes contraction of the uterus with the risk of miscarriage. Included in preparations used for many diseases.

* Burnet is used in preparations for cholecystitis, flatulence, enterocolitis, and respiratory diseases.

* Cat's paw (also known as immortelle) has a strong blood clotting effect and increases blood pressure.

* Stinging nettle is widely used in herbal medicine. In addition, it stimulates the sex glands, disrupting natural hormonal levels.

* Common groundsel - he causes palpitations, dry mouth, and has a carcinogenic effect.

Herbs that stimulate the sex glands and disrupt hormonal levels

* Dandelion officinalis – widely used in herbal medicine.

* Walnut - can provoke spasm of cerebral vessels, increases blood clotting.

* Melissa officinalis - used in preparations for many diseases.

* Common hops - most often found in preparations for various kidney diseases and for the treatment of insomnia and nervous tension.

* Cinquefoil anserina - prescribed as a hemostatic and diuretic.

* Black currant - prescribed for kidney diseases, vitamin deficiencies, bleeding and radiation sickness, hypertension, colds and as a choleretic agent.

* Common yarrow - the plant is poisonous, causes dizziness, skin rashes, increases blood clotting and uterine tone.

* Adaptogens: Aralia Manchurian, zamanika, common ginseng, Leuzea safflower or maral root, Schisandra chinensis, Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus. All of them also stimulate the sex glands, disrupting normal hormonal levels, and increase blood pressure, cause palpitations, tachycardia, insomnia, headaches, and increase nervousness. During pregnancy, they can be used only strictly according to indications, in reduced doses, shortened courses and always under the supervision of a doctor.

Simply poisonous plants

Medicinal herbs from the list of poisonous plants deserve a separate discussion. You might be surprised how it is: poisonous - and they are also medicinal? But this often happens in traditional, alternative and folk medicine: it all depends on the doses taken!!! In small doses under the supervision of a herbalist, herbs from this list are used for a number of diseases. But pregnancy requires special attention! The woman herself and her child turn out to be more sensitive to the active ingredients of herbs, therefore, from a safety point of view, it is better not to take medicinal herbs with a “tarnished reputation”.

Considered poisonous:

* Avran officinalis,
* black henbane,
* belladonna (or belladonna)
* common cocklebur,
* medicinal fume,
* high larkspur,
* European ungulate,
* flat-leaved ragwort,
* yellow egg capsule,
* European swimsuit,
* common bird cherry,
* forest clear,
* clematis kirkazon,
* medicinal swallow,
* glossy spurge,
* soapwort officinalis,
* comfrey,
* caustic sedum,
* male fern,
* white step,
* evasive peony,
* open lumbago,
* I smell rue,
* common lilac,
* horsetail.

Of course, this list is far from complete, and some of the plants named in it are not considered by some herbalists to be poisonous, but are classified as potent. But the name of the group does not change the essence: uncontrolled use of these and some other plants can lead to serious health problems!

Many women who stop taking medications during pregnancy find a solution in natural remedies - herbs. These products are natural because they are produced by nature, which, however, does not make them safe.

What herbs are dangerous for pregnant women?

Medicinal herbs can help relieve a number of ailments during pregnancy. But some plants are contraindicated for pregnant or lactating women, or their use must be limited. In the first third, avoid the use of medicinal plants, with the exception of those that have the mildest effects, for example, chamomile and ginger.

Be especially careful when handling Chinese herbs!!

Herbs are the same medicine; it affects your body and your baby in the same way as any other medication. There are potent herbs that can cause harm to the fetus (for example, cause miscarriage). They are known to cause diarrhea, vomiting and increased heart rate. So immerse yourself in “nature” with caution.

Herbs may be even more dangerous than your prescribed medications. The herbs are not tested on pregnant women, and you will not find corresponding marks on their packaging. There is no assurance that they were produced under satisfactory conditions under the necessary controls. They are packaged differently, in different proportions: some can be quite weak, others incredibly strong. And many contain infectious elements such as insect parts, pollinators, mold and even toxic substances like lead or arsenic.

Some herbs during pregnancy can cause uterine contractions and provoke, so try not to use them. Do not take: Aralia chinensis, barberry, oregano, goldenseal, root of life, cottonwood root, crocus, juniper, nutmeg, pennyroyal, mistletoe, male fern, tansy, feverfew, wormwood, wormwood, wormwood, broom, rue, thuja, green hellebore, greater celandine.

Although garlic, echinacea, gingko and ginseng are widely available and consumed by many, there is no data on how safe they are for pregnant women. It is generally not recommended to take them, and if you do so you are responsible.

Herbal teas for pregnant women

Herbs during pregnancy are best taken in the form of dietary supplements and herbal tea: they have the mildest effect.

Ginger. Drinking ginger tea or cookies can help relieve morning sickness. You should drink tea in small cups throughout the day, and you can also add freshly grated ginger to your stir fry.

Chamomile. Has a gentle effect on the body. It can be taken throughout pregnancy, it reduces gas, bloating and relieves constipation. But you should drink chamomile tea no more than 2 times a day. In addition, chamomile tea will help you relax.

Coriander. Helps prepare the body for childbirth. Eat 3 or 4 coriander shoots along with salad or make a tea from the seeds. Start taking coriander 2 weeks before your expected due date.

Kalina. Relaxes muscles thanks to antispasmodic and sedative properties. In the form of a decoction or tincture, it is used to alleviate painful contractions during childbirth. Attention: do not take before labor begins: stimulates uterine contractions.

Fennel. Tea can relieve morning sickness, but drinking more than 2 cups a day is not recommended. You can add fennel bulbs to your food to relieve nausea.

Garlic. Add to food when cooking to maintain stable blood pressure. It also helps strengthen the immune system and reduces the risk of blood clots. Promotes normal growth and development of the child, as it stimulates blood circulation.

Liquorice. Chewing licorice sticks will help relieve nausea.

Tinctures from lavender, marigold and St. John's wort promote the healing process of wounds, especially if there are postpartum sutures.

Linden blossom, infusion of marshmallow flowers and roots, coltsfoot leaves, primrose, and urban gravilate are considered harmless for the treatment of colds and coughs during pregnancy.

Valerian root can also be used for medicinal purposes during pregnancy, but only for a short period of time and in small quantities. It is best to give up alcohol tincture and use a homemade infusion. To do this, you need to pour a teaspoon of roots with a glass of warm water and leave for 6-8 hours.

Birch leaves are good for swelling. An infusion of two teaspoons per 200 ml. Leave the boiling water for half an hour and drink it warm until the swelling disappears.

Also during pregnancy, it is allowed to use calamus, sweet grass, basilisk, goldenrod, meadowsweet, burdock, flax seeds, blueberries, agrimony, and rose hips.

The fact of using a decoction or infusion of even a harmless herb should always be agreed with the doctor supervising the pregnancy.

What herbs are prohibited during pregnancy?

What herbs are prohibited during pregnancy, and what medicinal preparations can harm health and cause miscarriage? Many expectant mothers, trying not to harm the child, deliberately choose natural medicines, which is not always true. By and large, this is true, but not all herbal remedies are useful during pregnancy - some herbs have an abortifacient effect, increasing the tone of the uterus, causing miscarriage or premature birth, and also affect the functioning of the central nervous system of the fetus and cause its pathologies in the early stages pregnancy.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, it is better to avoid using herbs and other medications; if there is an urgent need, then do it in small doses and at short intervals, and applying decoctions and extracts to the skin is not at all dangerous.

Plants that contain potent substances can affect both the mother’s body and the child’s body. These are: autumn crocus, barberry, Canadian wolf's foot, borage, ginseng, lobelia, mandrake, Ma Huang.

Plants that have a laxative effect are contraindicated. The anthraquinone in these plants acts not only on the muscles of the large intestine, but also on the uterus. These are aloe, alder buckthorn, zhostera pursha, laxative buckthorn, cassia.

Other folk remedies, the use of which should be avoided during pregnancy, include infusions and decoctions of: basil, cloves, black crow, blessed cohosh, black cohosh, vergina vergina, hyssop, lovage, male shield, oregano, podophyllum, melia, mahonia, saturia, sumac , wild yam, turmeric, ginerium.

This is not the entire list of herbs that may be harmful to a pregnant woman or have a side effect. To avoid any problems, you should consult your doctor or homeopath before consuming any herb or herb.

Dangerous herbs during pregnancy

Dangerous herbs during pregnancy are those that can harm both the woman’s body and the fetus, and in severe cases lead to pregnancy loss. Often pregnancy is accompanied by a variety of ailments, which is associated with a decrease in the body's defenses. Pregnancy means giving up many medications, so homeopathy remains the only alternative.

• Dangerous herbs include parsley - it contains substances that affect the muscles of the uterus, causing it to contract, and this can cause premature birth.
• A separate sequence can cause malformations in the fetus;
• Hyssop leads to an increase in uterine tone, which can cause abortion;
• Rhubarb can cause defects in the formation of the skeleton in an unborn child;
• Tansy increases blood pressure and affects the tone of the uterine muscles, which provokes miscarriage;
• Calamus has an overly pronounced diuretic effect, which also affects the development of the fetus;
• Cornflower is harmful during pregnancy for two reasons - it contains a cyanide complex and it has a diuretic effect.
• Wormwood can cause seizures, hallucinations and other mental disorders, as well as bleeding.
• Thyme and sage can also cause bleeding.
• Elecampane can affect the tone of the uterine muscles, which can also cause abortion.

Before taking decoctions or infusions of the above herbs at your own risk, you should first consult with your doctor or doctor who is caring for your pregnancy.

Herbs useful during pregnancy

Herbs useful during pregnancy are not so numerous of their kind. As a rule, they are very relevant because they do not harm the body of the mother and child. Such herbs are indispensable as natural non-toxic remedies against inflammation, as well as sedatives, diuretics, and general cleansers.

Birch leaves and buds. They have a diuretic, antibacterial, sedative, cleansing and anti-inflammatory effect, and restore water-salt imbalance. Recommended for late-stage toxicosis, edema and kidney pathology. In this case, steam from birch buds is effective - pour 1 teaspoon of buds with a glass of boiling water and leave in a thermos for 3-4 hours. Take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day.

Lingonberry leaves and berries. They are effective for pathologies of the urinary tract, as they have a pronounced antimicrobial and diuretic effect, and are also rich in essential vitamins.

Valerian root has a pronounced sedative effect, and can also be used as a diuretic, choleretic, anticonvulsant, analgesic, and hypotensive natural remedy.

Blueberries, rich in vitamins A and C, mineral salts, organic acids, can be used as a vitamin complex that strengthens the body of mother and child. Blueberries also lower blood sugar levels and promote bile secretion.

Blackberries and their leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, E, B, K, P, PP and other important micro and macroelements that are indispensable for a pregnant woman. In addition, blackberries have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine and mild laxative effects.

Viburnum is indicated as an antipyretic and anti-inflammatory natural drug with anti-allergenic and antispasmodic effects. Decoctions and infusions of viburnum can be drunk for painful contractions and muscle spasms.

Herbs useful during pregnancy and their infusions and decoctions should be taken strictly in recommended doses.

Motherwort herb during pregnancy

Motherwort herb during pregnancy is one of the non-prohibited sedatives that will not harm the unborn child. During pregnancy, due to hormonal surges, the nervous state of the pregnant woman fluctuates all the time. This is due to the fact that upon reaching the new trimester of pregnancy, the balance of hormones rapidly changes, which very noticeably affects the woman’s well-being and behavior.

The safest way to normalize the condition and calm the worries of a pregnant woman is to use small amounts of calming herbs. For example, motherwort herb relieves irritation, improves digestion, equalizes heart rate, relieves smooth muscle tone, relaxes, reduces blood pressure, and also prevents attacks of nausea and relieves flatulence.

You can brew motherwort herb yourself, but it is better to mix it with your favorite tea - then its taste will not be so strong. Half a teaspoon per cup is enough to achieve the desired effect.

However, we must not forget that before self-medicating, you need to consult with the doctor who is caring for the pregnancy. Timely consultation and diagnosis will help prevent the development of any complications.

Senna grass during pregnancy

Sena grass during pregnancy is not included in the category of approved safe herbs. During pregnancy, many physiological changes occur in a woman’s body - progogesterone, when its content is high, inhibits peristalsis, which causes a decrease in intestinal tone. At later stages, due to the pressure of the uterus on the lower parts of the intestine, it is displaced and normal functioning is disrupted. Also, reducing fluid intake can cause constipation.

Constipation during pregnancy is not uncommon, but at the first sign of a bowel movement disorder, you need to address this problem. Constipation can cause hemorrhoids, lead to disruption of microflora and the development of cystitis and colpitis. Also, due to disturbed intestinal microflora, the likelihood of developing purulent-septic complications increases.

Senna is a classic natural remedy for constipation, but is contraindicated during pregnancy. The active components in its composition act on the smooth muscles of not only the intestines, but also the uterus, which can provoke contractions and cause termination of pregnancy. Therefore, it is better to choose a safer natural laxative that will not harm the unborn child.

Maternal grass during pregnancy

Maternal herb during pregnancy or, as it is also called, “oregano”, refers to women’s herbs. It is included in herbal preparations that are usually recommended for diseases of the reproductive system - it normalizes the menstrual cycle, helps with inflammation of the appendages, and promotes pregnancy. But the herb mother has one drawback - it cannot be used internally during pregnancy, either in its pure form or as part of medicinal preparations.

However, the external use of oregano will not harm the fetus, so the herb can be safely used for some ailments. For purulent rashes and furunculosis, you can make compresses with a decoction of oregano, and to keep the skin clean and to prevent rashes, you can wash your face with a decoction of oregano in the morning and evening.

If you have a headache, you can wash your hair with a not too concentrated decoction - this will not only relieve discomfort, but also heal and strengthen your hair, which noticeably suffers during pregnancy.

For inflammatory processes in the oral cavity - gingivitis, stomatitis, you can rinse your mouth with a small amount of oregano decoction 4-5 times a day. As a natural anti-inflammatory and disinfectant, oregano will help get rid of the problem in a short time. For sore throat, rinsing with oregano gives especially pronounced positive dynamics, but do not forget that the decoction should not be taken orally.

But in order to prevent any complications, you cannot rely entirely on natural remedies; at the first signs of one or another ailment, it is better to seek help from a doctor.

Grass half the floor during pregnancy

The grass floor during pregnancy (another name is erva woolly) is used mainly for the prevention and treatment of urolithiasis, and during pregnancy the exacerbation of any chronic disease is unacceptable, since it is almost impossible to carry out effective treatment without synthetic drugs. And any antibiotics and other potent drugs have a toxic effect not only on the mother’s body, but in utero and on the child. And this is fraught with the development of severe pathologies of the nervous system, brain, cardiovascular system, and liver.

Gender is contraindicated in all forms of hypoparathyroidism, renal osteodystrophy, osteoporosis and other disorders of calcium excretion from the body. However, despite its effectiveness, the herb is not always well tolerated by pregnant women, which is manifested by intoxication of the body and metabolic disorders. Such conditions are unacceptable and can lead to problems with the fetus, so it should be used carefully, only after consulting with a gynecologist. Self-medication and blind trust in traditional methods of treatment, advice from friends and relatives can affect the health of both mother and child.

Chamomile herb during pregnancy

Chamomile herb during pregnancy is relevant in many situations, and its scope is so wide that chamomile decoctions and infusions can be used to treat both internal organs and as an external remedy. Chamomile herb is used as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory agent, and is also effective for treating inflammatory processes in the mouth, stomach, intestines, and gynecological inflammation.

During pregnancy, you can drink chamomile tea - it soothes stomach pain, relaxes, and helps relieve nervous tension. For flatulence, a decoction of chamomile flowers is drunk as an anti-inflammatory, mild laxative, which also acts as an antifoam. During attacks of toxicosis, chamomile decoction helps to cope with nausea and nervous tension, and in case of a sore throat or inflammation of the gums, you need to rinse with this decoction several times a day. In the early stages of pregnancy, warm douching with chamomile decoction helps with inflammation of the genital organs.

But do not forget that you can drink no more than 400 ml per day. decoction Substances contained in chamomile flowers can stimulate the production of estrogen, which can lead to termination of pregnancy. The decoction should be consumed very carefully and in a strictly prescribed dosage, having previously agreed on a treatment regimen with a gynecologist.

Grass succession during pregnancy

The herb string during pregnancy is used as a diuretic, diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, hemostatic and regenerating folk remedy.

The series is effectively used to treat various skin diseases - the active components in its composition act as a disinfectant and healing substance. Very often, the series is prescribed in combination with burdock, tricolor violet leaves, young branches of black currant, raspberry and other plants. Decoctions are prescribed for both external and internal use.

A decoction of the string is also used for baths, compresses, and bandages - this is the most effective treatment regimen for seborrhea and allergic rashes. For psoriasis, ointments based on a series are actively used. In small therapeutic doses, the series is used as a sedative, but it is not suitable for constant use, since accumulating in the body leads to even greater nervous excitement.

In general, the herb string during pregnancy is not contraindicated and does not lead to the development of severe pathologies, but before starting treatment it is still better to inform the gynecologist.

Lingonberry herb during pregnancy

Lingonberry herb is very popular during pregnancy. Lingonberry berries, its leaves and young shoots contain many vitamins and active substances that have an extremely beneficial effect on the mother’s body without harming the fetus. Lingonberry herb has a powerful bactericidal, anti-inflammatory and diuretic effect, which significantly expands the scope of its application.

Decoctions and infusions of lingonberries, rich in vitamins and microelements, come in very handy for colds during pregnancy, and are also irreplaceable for preventing colds in the cool season. But still, the main area of ​​application for decoctions and infusions of lingonberry leaves is the treatment and prevention of diseases of the urinary tract. A decoction of lingonberries, without irritating the mucous membrane and without loading the glomerular apparatus of the kidneys, has an antimicrobial effect in nephritis and cystitis. It is undesirable to use decoctions during the acute period of the disease, and for prevention and treatment in the subacute stage there is no better folk remedy.

You should take the decoction during pregnancy with caution - when taking other herbs, the effect of lingonberry decoction may be enhanced, and this is not always desirable. Therefore, before you switch to taking lingonberry herb yourself, you need to notify your gynecologist about your choice.

Echinacea herb during pregnancy

The herb Echinacea during pregnancy, as studies by geneticists have shown, does not lead to intrauterine pathologies of the fetus, but throughout pregnancy it supports the mother’s body’s defenses. If the correct dose of the drug is observed, the risk of miscarriage is extremely low, in contrast to those cases when synthetic immunomodulators and antibiotics were prescribed to pregnant women as prescribed by doctors.

In order not to be exposed to risk once again, it is better to bring the issue of taking Echinacea to the attention of your doctor or the doctor supervising your pregnancy. Basically, Echinacea is prescribed for the treatment of purulent skin diseases, also sinusitis, cystitis, etc.

Alcohol tinctures of Echinacea are contraindicated during pregnancy, so it is best to take it as decoctions, infusions, and as an additive to tea. Echinacea extract in injections is contraindicated, as it leads to the development of immunodeficiency in the fetus. As a result, the child will be completely unable to resist the influence of the internal environment.

You need to drink Echinacea decoction strictly, in a course not exceeding 10 days. It is also better to use echinacea preparations not in the early stages of pregnancy and under the supervision of a gynecologist. A physiological increase in immunity in the early stages can lead to the fact that the fetus will be perceived as foreign and this will provoke spontaneous abortion.

Valerian herb during pregnancy

Valerian herb during pregnancy is prescribed as an effective sedative. The most convenient form of taking the drug in such a situation is valerian tablets and an infusion of its herbs. In any pharmacy you can buy valerian roots from which a healing decoction is prepared.

Valerian herb does not have a negative effect on the fetus, so you can take it without fear of harming the baby. But this should not mean that valerian can be taken in unlimited quantities - any medicine in a critical dose can become poison.

During pregnancy, the herb valerian has a calming effect on a woman and also relieves muscle spasms, which is very important. This drug is prescribed mainly in the early stages of pregnancy, when almost all synthetic drugs of various types of action are contraindicated and when there is a possibility of miscarriage. Valerian is also prescribed in the last trimester of pregnancy - when pregnant women are concerned about gestosis. Valerian infusion has a relaxing effect on the muscles of the uterus, relieving hypertension and calming the pregnant woman herself. The standard dosage of Echinacea tablets does not exceed 1-2 tablets 3 times a day, an hour after meals. In such situations, it is best to take valerian in courses - then a constant effect will be maintained, which will have a positive effect on the well-being of the mother and the condition of the fetus.

Bogorodskaya grass during pregnancy

Bogorodskaya herb during pregnancy, or thyme, as it is also called, is prescribed during pregnancy only after examination by a doctor and a detailed diagnosis of the condition of the mother and fetus. During pregnancy, thyme is prescribed in rare cases, mainly as a diuretic and diaphoretic. Bogorodskaya herb is effective in the prevention and treatment of cystitis, bronchitis, colds, tracheitis, indigestion; externally, a decoction of thyme is used as a bactericidal agent for rashes and wounds.

Thyme should not be consumed by pregnant women who suffer from arrhythmia, cardiovascular failure, cardiosclerosis, or hypothyroidism. If you have high blood pressure, it is also better to avoid using a decoction of Bogorodskaya herb - the active substances in its composition lead to a stable increase in pressure for a certain time, a rush of blood to the pelvic organs. Thyme also provokes contraction of the smooth muscles of the uterus and activates contractions, which is very undesirable during pregnancy and can lead to premature birth at any stage.

It is best to drink a decoction of thyme in late pregnancy - this is an excellent way to keep the uterus in good shape and prepare for labor. But you cannot solve such issues on your own; the course must be carried out under the strict supervision of a gynecologist, who decides whether the woman’s body is ready for childbirth and whether this will harm the fetus.

Herbal tea during pregnancy

Tea with herbs during pregnancy is very useful and is a worthy safe alternative to synthetic drugs and antibacterial agents. Every mother wants her baby to be completely safe from the harmful effects of drugs and to receive the necessary supply of vitamins, micro- and macroelements.

An excellent alternative in such a situation is herbal medicine, or rather treatment with herbal teas. Herbs contain several times more useful components than fruits and vegetables, and their main advantage is that most herbs do not cause allergies. But when taking herbs, you need to be careful with dosage, and it is also important to know and understand which herbs are harmless and which can lead to fetal pathologies and miscarriage. In small quantities, white tea, linden tea, tea with chamomile, and lemon are useful for pregnant women.

It is important to know that not all herbal tea is beneficial during pregnancy. There are a number of medicinal plants that, despite their irrefutable benefits, are absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy. These include teas with the addition of fennel, ginseng, pennyroyal, black crow, slippery elm, licorice, fenugreek, sage, hops, and wormwood. The influence of many herbal preparations has not been fully studied and it is impossible to fully judge how the main components of herbs will affect the entire body.