HERBAL GOODIES

 Herbs to use and NOT to use during Pregnancy

Before the invention of  teabags, skin lotion, painkillers and other drugs, there were natural herbs.

For the most part of my life, I grew up on drinking a different type of "bush" everyday in the morning and evening. My parents would plant all sorts of herbs in their big garden and I was regularly sent to pick them. Sometimes they would say "you picked a hard/old leaf" or "pick a very young leaf!" or "there are many types of mint!" and "we want spearmint not the fresh mint!" 

Today, people are becoming aware of the benefits and wonders of herbs.  Herbs are often cheaper, better and healthier than any other man made medicine.

 What are the risk of natural herbs during pregnancy?

Not all herbs are safe to use during pregnancy. Some herbs can cause miscarriages, premature birth, severe premature contractions and injury to the fetus. Before taking herbs, expecting mothers should consult and discuss with their doctor. There are herbs that are safe to use during pregnancy. I will mention them below. 

HERBS TO USE IN MODERATION DURING PREGNANCY



Ginger root

Ginger is excellent for upset stomach. Too much of ginger can cause thinning of the blood, vaginal bleeding and miscarriages if you exceed more than 2 teaspoons of grated ginger a day. It is best to have ginger 3 times a week and or after eating a meal (upset stomach).



peppermint

Peppermint is really good for relieving nausea, morning sickness. It is NOT advised to use peppermint if you have heart problems. Peppermint is a heart stimulant.
                




Echinacea 

Small doses during pregnancy is great! High doses can reduce fertility in women and men.




Eucalyptus

 Eucalypyus can be used in small doses. A few drops of eucalypyus oil in hot water and inhaling the steam

can relieve sinuses. DO not drink Eucalypyus oil. It must be diluted with water or other lotions before it is put on the skin.
 
 

Chamomile flowers

Chamomile is excellent to take before bedtime.

Soursop

 Soursop fruit

The soursop leaves and fruit is rich in folic acid. During pregnancy, some women must take folic acid. Soursop prevents and cures cancer, slows aging process and the vitamin C in it prevents Urinary Tract Infection and other Kidney ailments. 

Since this fruit is so important and means sooo much to me, here is a link that will explain everything for you. http://www.meditrenz.com/health-benefits-of-soursop-in-our-body.html

Garlic

Garlic reduces fatigue during pregnancy, increases blood circulation, lowers blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels. It is also a form of antibiotic. Garlic can be boiled to relieve gas/chest pains.

HERBS TO AVOID DURING PREGNANCY

• Chilli
• Orange peel
• Lavender
• Senna
• Aloe Vera (can be used externally not interally)
• Cotton root
• Jasmine
• Ladies Mantle
• Bay leaf
• Squaw vine
• Carali
• False unicorn root
• Bitter orange
• celery seed
• clove
• sage
• comfrey
• cowslip
• ginseng
• feverfew
• goldenseal
• gota kola
• oregano
• parsley
• nutmeg
• passion flower
• rosemary
• Saffron
• St John's wort
• Thyme