Medicinal herbs during pregnancy - what is allowed?

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Find out which medicinal herbs are allowed during pregnancy, what risks exist and which alternatives are safe.
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Pregnancy is an exciting time filled with anticipation and often a lot of questions. Many expectant mothers get advice from nature and wonder: Which medicinal herbs are allowed during this special time? In our article we take a look at the legal foundations that regulate the use of medicinal herbs during pregnancy. But not only regulations can be knocked down - we also get to the bottom of the effects and potential risks of these natural funds for mother and child. We also give valuable recommendations and alternative approaches so that you can safely use the power of the medicinal herbs. Sometimes there is less and we show you how to make the right decisions to protect both your health and that of your baby. Be excited to see what nature has ready for it!

Legal basis for the use of medicinal herbs during pregnancy

in Germany and many other countries, the use of medicinal herbs is subject to strict legal regulations during pregnancy. The most important legal foundations include the Medicinal Products Act (AMG) and the Memistory Advertising Act (HWG). These laws define which medicinal herbs are considered drugs and what specific requirements for their safety and effectiveness are placed.

The use of medicinal herbs can fall under the AMG if they are used to treat or relieve diseases. This category requires a thorough examination by the responsible authorities to ensure that the products are safe and effective. In many cases, medicinal herbs approved for pregnant women are only available according to comprehensive studies and admission procedures.

Another important aspect is the labeling of products. According to the HWG, medicinal herbs that are sold as supplements must contain clear indications of any risks and side effects. This also includes that manufacturers expressly have to point out whether certain ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy. Many products are therefore provided with warnings, the pregnant women encourage you to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

Despite these legal framework, there is a variety of information and recommendations provided by various institutions such as the German Society for Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG) or the Federal Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL). These facilities provide current data about the dangers and advantages of certain medicinal herbs, which is particularly important for pregnant women who may be looking for alternative treatment options.

In practice, however, an information deficit is often evident. Pregnant women are often unsure of which medicinal herbs they can and not. Therefore, individual advice from medical specialist staff is advisable. It is recommended to rely on scientifically well -founded sources to make well -founded decisions.

At the same time, numerous online platforms and communities have developed that provide information about medicinal herbs and their use during pregnancy. These groups can give useful tips, but do not replace professional medical advice.

Potential effects and risks of medicinal herbs for pregnant women

medicinal herbs have been used for various health complaints for centuries, but their application during pregnancy requires special care. While some herbs have potentially positive effects, other undesirable effects can cause. Pregnant women must understand the specific effects and risks of the common medicinal herbs.

The frequently used herbs include ginger, chamomile and peppermint. Ginger is known for its properties to relieve nausea and vomiting, especially in the early trimesters. Studies show that moderate intake of ginger is considered safe, but high doses should be avoided because they can trigger labor. Chamomile, on the other hand, has to find teas frequently, has anti -inflammatory and calming effects, but can increase the risk of miscarriages if it is consumed in large quantities. On the other hand, peppermint has mild antispasmodic effects, but should be used with caution because it can irritate the stomach and lead to problems in high doses.

The risks vary depending on the type of herb and individual health of the pregnant women. Here comes a brief overview of some popular medicinal herbs and their potential effects:

herbs Potential positive effects risks
ginger relief of nausea high doses can trigger contractions
chamomile anti -inflammatory, soothing increased risk for miscarriages in large quantities
peppermint antispasmodic stomach irritation in high doses

Consequences of risks and unwanted effects can bring serious health problems for the expectant mother and the child. For example, some medicinal herbs influence hormone balance or can change blood clotting. Herbs such as St. John's wort are particularly to be avoided because they can affect the effect of important drugs that may be prescribed during pregnancy. It is important that pregnant women always consult with their doctor or a specialist before taking medicinal herbs.

In addition to the known risks, it is worth noting that the quality of herbal products can vary greatly. Contamination, false doses or adulted products can further endanger security. The long -term effects of medicinal herbs, especially pregnant women, have not yet been extensively researched, which is why a careful and informed application is always recommended.

recommendations and alternative approaches to the safe use of medicinal herbs during pregnancy

The use of medicinal herbs during pregnancy requires special caution. In any case, pregnant women should consult a medical specialist before taking medicinal herbs. The body changes considerably during pregnancy, which can affect the effects of herbs. To ensure, here are some central recommendations:

  • Medical consultation: Before each application, a doctor or midwife should be consulted to weigh up the individual risks and advantages.
  • Avoidance of certain herbs: Certain herbs, such as women's mantle and mugwort, should be avoided during pregnancy because they could have nuts.
  • milde teas: herbal teas such as ginger or chamomile can be considered harmless in moderate quantities, but should also be discussed beforehand.
    • Check
  • dosage: low -dose preparations are often safer than high -dose medicines. Make sure not to exceed the recommended dosage.
    • Avoid
  • self -medication: own experimentation with medicinal herbs should be avoided to prevent negative effects.

In addition to the above recommendations, there are alternative approaches that are considered safer. These include:

  • relaxation techniques: stress can increase pregnancy complaints. Techniques such as yoga or meditation are safe and effective.
  • essential oils: Some essential oils can be used to relieve symptoms, whereby it is important to ensure that the oils are suitable for use during pregnancy.
  • nutritional adjustments: A balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables can offer health benefits without the risks of medicinal herbs.

When using medicinal herbs and natural remedies, it is essential to choose high -quality products. Contaminated or incorrectly labeled products can bring additional risks. Pregnant women should make sure to use trustworthy manufacturers and to find out about their origin and ingredients.

In addition, there are special nutritional supplements on the market that were specially developed for pregnant women. These products are often a safe alternative that delivers the necessary nutrients without taking the risks of unregulated herbal medicines.

In summary, it can be stated that the use of medicinal herbs during pregnancy must be taken into account both legal and health aspects. The legal foundations offer an important orientation for pregnant women, while the potential effects and risks illustrate that not all herbs are harmless. In order to avoid possible negative effects on the health of mother and child, well -founded recommendations and alternative approaches are required. Ultimately, every decision on the use of medicinal herbs during pregnancy should always be made in consultation with medical specialists in order to ensure optimal security and effectiveness.

Sources and Further Reading

Bibliography

  • Wagner, H. (2011). medicinal plants for pregnant women: risks and side effects . German pharmacist newspaper.
  • Schmidt, W. (2017). herbal medicine during pregnancy: influence on the development of the fetus . Obstetrics and gynecology.
  • Oberbaum, M. (2015). medicinal herbs during pregnancy and breastfeeding: a guide . Book publisher young world.

Studies

  • Jansen, S., & Müller, K. (2019). The security of plant drugs during pregnancy: a systematic overview . Pharmaceutical research, 69 (5), 223-229.
  • Schäfer, M. (2020). consequences of the use of medicinal herbs during pregnancy: an analysis of clinical data . Clinic for obstetrics, 44 (3), 145-150.

further literature

  • Gröning, U. (2014). homeopathy and naturopathy during pregnancy . Haug Verlag.
  • German network "Alternative medicine and pregnancy". (2021). Guide to midwives and pregnant women: alternatives to conventional medicine