Is Herbal supplements safe during pregnancy?
Most herbal supplements haven't been studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Talk to your clinician before taking any.
What the sources say
MotherToBaby notes most herbal products haven't been well studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding, have no standards for ingredients or strength, may contain contaminants (lead, arsenic, mercury, pesticides, microbes) or unlisted ingredients, and tinctures can contain alcohol; some have been linked to hormone changes or uterine contractions. FDA regulates supplements as foods, not drugs, and warns some contain hidden drugs. Herbs used in normal cooking amounts are not expected to be a concern.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
herbal supplement, herbal remedies, botanical supplement, natural remedies, ashwagandha, echinacea, elderberry, ginseng, ginkgo, st. john's wort, black cohosh, dong quai
Sources
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.