Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy & Lactation

This is a general list for your consideration compiled from an herbal training course and various herbal and medical libraries (see link below). It is NOT all inclusive, but rather a starting point for your research. Several herbs are listed here because there has not been enough clinical human safety data to deem them safe for pregnancy/lactation, or simply because they can be found elsewhere listed as contraindications for pregnancy and/or lactation so I'm giving some clarifications. I hope to demystify some of these herbs for you and help you gain some insight.    **We are continually adding more detailed and/or updated information for each herb listed. **   Sometimes when you read that an herb is dangerous for use during pregnancy, it is referring to internal or supplemental use. For example, Horsetail is a great nutritive herb and builder to the skin, nails and hair. Internally it has been listed as unsafe for use in pregnancy because the fresh herb (not the dry herb) has an enzyme that destroys B1, and it is also said to contain small amounts of nicotine. It is, however, listed as safe for use externally. On the same note, Barley Grass Leaves are positively packed with vitamins, nutrients, and fiber, but most Barley Grass supplement labels advise against using it during pregnancy and lactation.   It can all be very confusing, but don't give in to the temptation to throw up your hands and quit. It looks much more complicated than it is. Your attention to details and commitment to educating yourself about herbs will ensure the safety of you and your baby when using natural products, and the end result is a happier, healthier life for you and your family.   As for skin care, the best kind during pregnancy is actually no commercial products at all. If you don't have the time, resources or inclination to make your own, always look for products which contain absolutely no artificial preservatives, dyes or fragrances.   Contact Leanne or post to our Natural Family Forum if you need information on a specific herb or natural do-it-yourself skin care recipe.    You should never use or consume questionable herbal products and supplements while pregnant and/or lactating or exceed recommended oral dosage guidelines before consulting your trusted healthcare practitioner. Natural does not mean safe.   Always make informed, intelligent decisions before using herbal products and remember these things:

• Educate yourself! Study, research, read.
• Try to use one herb at a time, if possible.
• Seek out and use herbs that grow near you. You may discover an invaluable ally at your doorstep.
• Use herbs and herbal remedies for minor problems before you try to treat serious health problems. Begin slowly. Build a relationship.
• Try to use herbs as close as possible to their natural state. The minute an herb is "powdered" it begins to lose potency. Read up on whole plants versus extracted constituents.
• Avoid plants that may be toxic! Always seek out and utilize gentle, nourishing herbs that may be taken in any quantity for extended periods of time.
• Relax and have fun! Our bodies heal themselves, and herbs are our bodies' natural healing allies! 

Please read our Disclaimer for more important information.   Resources and references for this compliation.   Alphabetical Listings by Herb:
A-B
C
D-G
H-L
M-R
S-T
U-Z