Getting to the point, if you already take herbs or herbal combinations, and you understand herbs and your own body, you most likely can continue to take most of your protocol throughout pregnancy. If, however, you have never taken herbs before, the first trimester of pregnancy is not the time to start. Many women may take herbs to encourage pregnancy. That protocol should be discontinued for the length of the pregnancy unless otherwise advised by a Naturopathic Physician.

When we think of vegetables we often do not think of their healing properties; and yet, we’ve heard that carrots promote good eyesight, and spinach builds strong healthy red blood cells. Herbs are vegetables with notable potential to be healing, and even medicinal; in fact many of them are refined to create drugs. Thus is the case with foxglove which is reduced to digitoxin prescribed for cardiovascular disease. I state this because although herbs are the balanced whole plant and medicine is the extract, therefore refined and targeted, certain herbs, even with their whole properties can be dangerous during pregnancy.

During the three trimesters there are safe herbs that can be taken: red raspberry, spearmint, licorice, lemon grass, chamomile, rose hips, fennel, alfalfa, anise and anise seed, dandelion, ginger, slippery elm, lavender, rose, and meadowsweet. Uses and the right trimester to introduce will follow.

During the first trimester morning sickness seems to plague more than half expectant mothers. Anise and fennel are great remedies. Fennel tea can be made by steeping the seed in warm water and then sipping. Meadowsweet is another aid for the seasick feelings of early pregnancy. Use about one teaspoon per cup of hot water and drink a cup of meadowsweet tea morning and afternoon or early evening. Always make infusions light and take time sipping. Anise seed can be carried and chewed on while out and about and unable to stop for tea.

Ginger tea can be made by steeping an inch of fresh ginger root in hot water. Do not over steep or make ginger tea too strong. The reason for taking small and light doses of any herb or food during pregnancy is because not only can the mother create intolerance, an allergy to a single herb in her own body, the baby may be affected also. Spearmint is a great tummy soother and should be made lightly. Dandelion tea, a soothing herb is a good neutralizing food when nausea strikes. The reason for taking small and light doses of any herb or food during pregnancy is because not only can the mother create intolerance or an allergy to a single herb in her own body, the baby may also be affected.

Dried Alfalfa leaves are loaded with vitamins and minerals like A, B6, B12, C, E, K, folate and niacin. These are powerful agents to prevent birth defects. Taking Alfalfa before conception, during pregnancy and postnatal is quite useful.

During the second and third trimester a mother can take all of the herbs and formulas she has been used to in the first trimester with further additions. Red Raspberry tea is probably the most famous of herbs for prenatal use. Two cups daily for the concluding six months is recommended as it prepares the uterus for labor and birth. Steep two tablespoons of red raspberry: pour boiling hot water over the herb and steep up to twenty minutes. Not only do the alkaloids, it is believed, keep contractions quite regular during labor, there is the added plus of enhancing mothers milk after delivery.

Chamomile may be used with caution in the second and third trimesters. Drink only one cup per day as too much can cause early labor or miscarriage due to the relaxing qualities of the herb. Chamomile mixed with other herbs in a blend is usually not a problem as the content of chamomile is slight. Insomnia during second and third trimesters can be soothed with chamomile, lemon grass and lavender. Peppermint, one herb that is usually not a problem, should be kept on the shelf for the term of the pregnancy. The volatile oils in peppermint can over stimulate the nervous system of the unborn infant. The aroma of the leaves however can help immeasurably as aromatherapy for morning or afternoon sickness.

Herbs that relax during early labor: tincture of passionflower in warm water calms during early stages of labor. Aromatherapy with oils of lavender, which eases anxiety, and peppermint which eases nausea are great aids during labor. Chamomile is a relaxant and during labors first signs is perfectly wonderful for resting and calming mom for the work ahead during the birthing process.

• Facing That Need Pregnancy Migraine Headache Relief and You Need It Now
• Find Out Tips for a Healthy Diet During Pregnancy
• Womens Pregnant Workout Guide
• Herbal And Plant Extracts Effective In Eye Skin Care
• Get Rid of Acne With These 3 fantastic Herbal Remedies