Herbal medicine, rooted in centuries of tradition, offers a natural approach to healing and health that resonates with myself and many today. Though it is important to distinguish which herbs for pregnancy are safe tp consume before harnessing the power of plants to help you through your journey to motherhood. From soothing chamomile for relaxation to potent echinacea for immune support, using herbs that are safe for pregnancy can offer a diverse range of therapeutic properties. What’s truly remarkable is the holistic approach of herbal medicine, which not only addresses physical ailments but also considers the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Whether used as teas, tinctures, or topical applications, herbal remedies provide a gentle yet effective path to wellness, promoting harmony and balance within the body.

Now, let’s talk about something that’s been buzzing in the wellness world lately: Safe herbs to consume while pregnant. This post takes a deep dive into herbs that are safe to consume as an expecting mother and what benefits they can offer both mom & baby.

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it comes with its own set of challenges. From morning sickness to hormonal fluctuations, expecting mothers often seek safe and natural remedies to alleviate discomfort and promote well-being. Herbs can be valuable allies during this transformative time, offering a plethora of benefits without harmful side effects. Here, we’ve compiled a list of 10 herbs that are not only safe for consumption during pregnancy but also boast various health benefits for both mom and baby.

1. Ginger (Zingiber officinale):
   • Benefit: Alleviates nausea and morning sickness.
   • Ginger tea or candies can provide relief from queasiness, making it easier for expectant mothers to keep food down during the early stages of pregnancy.
2. Peppermint (Mentha piperita):
   • Benefit: Soothes digestive discomfort.
   • Peppermint tea aids in digestion and can alleviate bloating and gas, common issues during pregnancy.
3. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla):
   • Benefit: Promotes relaxation and better sleep.
   • A cup of chamomile tea before bedtime can help expecting mothers unwind and improve sleep quality.
4. Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus):
   • Benefit: Strengthens the uterus and eases labor pains.
   • Raspberry leaf tea is rich in vitamins and minerals that support uterine health, making it a popular choice in the third trimester to prepare for childbirth.
5. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale):
   • Benefit: Acts as a gentle diuretic and supports liver function.
   • Dandelion tea can help reduce water retention and alleviate swelling, common issues during pregnancy.
6. Nettle (Urtica dioica):
   • Benefit: Provides essential nutrients and supports overall health.
   • Nettle tea is a rich source of vitamins and minerals like iron and calcium, which are crucial for both maternal and fetal health.
7. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis):
   • Benefit: Reduces anxiety and promotes calmness.
   • Lemon balm tea can help expectant mothers manage stress and anxiety, promoting a more relaxed pregnancy experience.
8. Oat Straw (Avena sativa):
   • Benefit: Nourishes the nervous system and supports healthy circulation.
   • Oat straw tea is packed with nutrients that support overall well-being, making it a great choice for expecting mothers.
9. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia):
   • Benefit: Relieves stress and promotes better sleep.
   • Lavender tea or essential oil can help expecting mothers unwind and enjoy restful sleep, combating pregnancy-related insomnia.
10. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba):
    • Benefit: Improves cognitive function and enhances memory.
    • Ginkgo tea, taken in moderation, can support cognitive health during pregnancy, helping expecting mothers stay sharp and focused.

I like to grow majority of my own herbs for tea use, my go-to seed source is Seeds Now. They have a wide range of unique, quality seeds at a reasonable price. Alternately, many of these herbs can be purchased online separately, or as mixed tea blends.

While these pregnancy friendly herbs are considered safe, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating them into your routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication. Additionally, pregnant women should consume herbs in moderation and avoid excessive intake. With the right guidance and precautions, these safe herbs can be valuable allies in promoting a healthier and more comfortable pregnancy journey.

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Tinctures

Tinctures are made by soaking herbs in alcohol for a period of time. They are generally stronger in their healing properties compared to infusions or decoctions. To create a tincture, start by filling a glass canning jar with herbs. I’ve found that using dried herbs works best, although some recipes call for fresh herbs. Fill the jar with enough alcohol to cover the herbs, shake well, and then store it in a dark and cool place for two to three weeks. After this waiting period, it’s time to strain the tincture. I place a cheesecloth over a large glass measuring cup (securing the cheesecloth with a rubber band to prevent shifting) and pour the contents of the jar through it. Once the liquid has strained through the cheesecloth, gather up the cloth and squeeze out any remaining moisture – that’s the good stuff. Store tinctures in glass amber bottles for up to 2 years, and don’t forget to label them!

Creams

Making a herbal cream involves combining a fat or an oil in an emulsion. Adding 1mL of Tea Tree essential oil to any cream to extend shelf life. Creams are made by melting 150g of emulsifying wax in a double boiler. Add 70g of glycerin or other oil, 80mL water, and 75g of fresh herbs. Let all that simmer for a minimum of 3 hours. After three hours, strain the mixture with a cheesecloth and stir slowly but regularly until the mixture cools and sets. Put the set cream into glass jars and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Ointments

Ointments are my favorite to make. Start by melting a 1:1 ratio of coconut oil and beeswax (you can put slightly more of the other if you like it more firm or soft – more beeswax will create a more firm ointment) in a double boiler, add the dried herb of choice and simmer for 2 hours. Strain & pour into jars!

YARROW

Yarrow is a creeping perennial with white flowers and finely divided leaves. It’s a native European plant and it has a long history as a medicinal wound healer. Many say yarrow is similar to German chamomile but yarrow has been neglected in terms of research compared to chamomile. According to the existing research, yarrow has been shown to be anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic, and even anti-tumor properties. Studies have shown that yarrow dilates blood vessels, which would lower blood pressure.

Uses:

• Healing wounds
• Gynaecological herb (used to treat symptoms related to the menstrual cycle)
• Alleviating cold and flue symptoms
• Lowers blood pressure
• Improves weak digestion

Remedies:

#1 Cold Remedy – mix equal parts of chopped yarrow, peppermint, oregano and elderflower (dried or fresh). Infuse 1 tablespoon of the herbs with 150-200mL of water for 15 minutes. Strain and drink the liquid. Can repeat this up to 3 times per day if needed.

#2 Indigestion Tincture – fill the jar 3/4 full of yarrow, cover with alcohol, shake, and store for 2-3 weeks. Once the tincture is strained and in designated jars – take up to 20 drops morning and evening as needed.

#3 Overall Wellness Tea – add dried aerial parts of yarrow to a tea mug. Add any other flavorings or herbs you wish. Enjoy as a daily tea whenever you’d like!

GERMAN CHAMOMILE

German chamomile is a sweet, aromatic annual plant with beautiful white flowers. The seeds can easily be planted in the spring and grown by your average gardener. This is a familiar herb for tea drinkers, but the uses for German chamomile don’t stop with tea. A clinical trial was conducted and it was found that German chamomile was effective in reducing physical symptoms of menstrual pain as well as some of the emotional symptoms.

Uses:

• Improves digestive problems
• Improved relaxation and sleep
• Improves hay fever symptoms
• Sooths itchy skin
• Anti-inflammatory

Remedies:

#1 Insomnia Remedy – mix equal parts of German chamomile flower heads and lavender buds. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the dried herbs to 250mL of hot water. Infuse for 15 minutes and drink!

#2 Sore/Itchy Skin Cream – rub on desired area 3x daily.

#3 Irritable Bowel Tincture – For irritable bowel symptoms, take 1 teaspoon of the complete tincture with some water 3 times daily.

ECHINACEA

Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, is a vibrant and hardy perennial herb celebrated for both its ornamental beauty and medicinal properties. With its striking, daisy-like blooms featuring prominent cone-shaped centers, Echinacea adds a burst of color to gardens, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Echinacea is renowned for its immune-boosting qualities. Native to North America, this resilient herb has been traditionally used by indigenous peoples for centuries. Its roots, leaves, and flowers are often utilized in herbal remedies, believed to help fend off colds and support overall immune health. Echinacea’s popularity has soared in contemporary herbalism, finding its way into teas, tinctures, and supplements. Both the petals of the flower and the roots are used herbily. As you welcome Echinacea into your garden, you not only embrace a stunning floral display but also a natural ally in promoting wellness.

Uses:

• Alleviates toothache pain
• Soothes sore throats
• Boosts immune system
• Helps fight off colds
• Assists in viral and fungal infection treatment
• Allergy remedy

Remedies:

• Health Capsules – Powder the dry roots and add them to fillable capsules. Take up to three times daily when you’re exposed to any concerning sickness or when you begin to feel under the weather.
• Immune System Tea – Using a combination of the petals and roots, steep 3 tablespoons in hot water for 15-20 minutes, strain & enjoy!
• Chronic Infection Tincture – Using the dried root parts of echinacea, make a tincture. Take a tsp 1-2 times daily.

CALENDULA

With bright, golden-orange petals that mirror the warmth of the sun, Calendula is not just a feast for the eyes but a botanical powerhouse for holistic well-being.

This herb has long been cherished for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. Calendula’s tender blooms are often harvested and transformed into healing salves, creams, and oils, offering a gentle touch for irritated skin, minor cuts, and abrasions. Sipping on a cup of Calendula tea is like inviting a ray of sunshine into your day, known for its potential to ease digestive discomfort and promote overall relaxation. Calendula is also a great companion plant as it attracts pollinators and repels some unwanted pests.

Uses:

• Minor cut treatment
• Rash or eczema treatment
• Liver cleansing
• Improves digestive issues
• Athletes foot treatment
• Minor burn and sunburn treatment

Remedies:

• Cleansing Tea – Use to cleanse the liver and gallbladder. Can even be used to treat fungal infections. Drink a cup of calendula infused tea up to 3 times daily.
• Infused Oil – Add a calendula to a jar and top with moisturizing oil, such as grapeseed or coconut. Can be used to treat inflamed skin or eczema.
• First Aid Ointments – Use for minor scrapes, burns, sunburns, even bites and stings!
• Tincture – A calendula tincture is said to help symptoms of eczema. Take 15-20 drops with water 3 times daily.

GOJI BERRY

Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are vibrant red fruits bursting with antioxidants and nutrients. Hailing from Asia, these tiny superfoods are prized for supporting immune health and promoting vitality. Enjoy them dried as a snack, sprinkled on salads, or brewed into a refreshing tea. With a rich cultural history and ties to traditional Chinese medicine, goji berries are not just a flavorful addition to your diet but a delicious investment in your well-being. The polysaccharides in goji berries are even said to have anti-cancer properties. Avoid taking during pregnancy.

Uses:

• Said to be an Alzheimer’s preventative
• Mood booster
• Helps prevent macular degeneration
• Supports general eye health
• Helps reduce cold and flu symptoms
• Infection prevention
• Immune system booster
• Lowers blood pressure
• Reduce fever

Remedies:

• Eyesight Juice – Can be made by juicing fresh berries or boiling dried berries for 30 minutes. Drink 150 mL twice daily. (Of course drinking this juice will have numerous other health benefits, too)
• Cold Medicine Tincture – Take a teaspoon diluted with juice or water up to three times daily. Helps reduce fever and cough.
• Long Term Health Snack – By eating these fresh berries, you are contributing to your long term health, as well as possibly preventing and illness from taking over.

Once you dive into the world of herbal health & medicine, you’ll see that there are remedies for everything. There are hundreds of edible & safe plants that are used in herbal medicine – and many of them you can grow right in your backyard. Be sure to invest in a few books with remedy recipes included… because the internet may not be around forever.

Need herb seeds? Check out Seeds Now! With their diverse range of quality seeds, I’m sure you’ll find what you’re looking for.

**As always, this is not meant to replace medical advice. Do not self diagnose or attempt to treat serious self diagnosed illnesses. Please also speak to your doctor before attempting herbal treatment if you are on any prescription medication. This guide is also created with adult consumption in mind. Please do dosage research before providing any remedies to children**

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