Other names

Unsafe herbs during pregnancy
Contraindicated supplements
Herbal abortifacients

Synopsis

During pregnancy, certain herbs and supplements that are otherwise beneficial can pose serious risks to both the mother and developing fetus. Some contain compounds that stimulate the uterus, disrupt hormones, thin the blood, or even cross the placenta and cause developmental harm. These risks are particularly high in the first trimester, when miscarriage and fetal development are most sensitive. While many pregnant individuals seek natural remedies for nausea, anxiety, or sleep, it’s essential to avoid substances with known uterotonic, emmenagogue, or toxic effects. Products labeled “natural” are not automatically safe, and herbs used in traditional medicine can be harmful if taken in the wrong context or dosage.

Types:

• Uterine stimulants: May trigger premature contractions or labor

• Emmenagogues: Stimulate menstruation and may cause miscarriage

• Hormone modulators: Disrupt normal estrogen, progesterone, or cortisol patterns

• Hepatotoxic or neurotoxic agents: May cross the placenta and affect fetal development

• Hemorrhage risk enhancers: Interfere with normal blood clotting and delivery safety

Common Causes:

• Self-medicating with herbal products not intended for pregnancy

• Use of multi-ingredient blends without checking each component

• Misbelief that “natural” means “safe” in all stages of pregnancy

• Lack of access to trained herbalists or integrative prenatal care

• Use of essential oils or concentrated extracts in excess

Severity Causes:

• Early use of uterine stimulants (e.g., black cohosh, mugwort)

• High-dose consumption of vitamin A or essential oils

• Accidental exposure to herbal blends with abortifacient properties

• Poor liver detox pathways or genetic sensitivities in the mother

• Combining multiple supplements without professional oversight

When to See a Doctor:

• Any herbal use followed by cramping, spotting, or unusual discharge

• Symptoms of toxicity like dizziness, headache, confusion, or nausea

• Known ingestion of unsafe herbs in early pregnancy

• Unexpected changes in fetal movement or maternal blood pressure

• If you’re unsure whether a supplement is pregnancy-safe

Natural Remedies

Avoid high-risk herbs: Steer clear of known uterine stimulants such as black cohosh, dong quai, mugwort, and yohimbe. Even mild herbs like licorice root or goldenseal can pose developmental risks and should be avoided. Skip over-the-counter blends unless explicitly labeled as safe for pregnancy and approved by your healthcare provider. Read labels for ingredients like guarana (caffeine), high-dose vitamin A (retinol), and berberine-containing herbs (e.g., goldenseal), which may not be flagged as unsafe but can have serious effects. Stick with well-tested, low-dose nutrients from reputable prenatal brands, and always consult a midwife or physician before introducing new supplements.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat this condition.

aloe vera
black cohosh
St. John's Wort
turmeric
vitamin A
yohimbe
chamomile
dong quai root
evening primrose oil
goldenseal
guarana
licorice root
mugwort