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Should You Avoid Ginseng and Saw Palmetto During Pregnancy?

TL;DR

Pregnant individuals are advised to exercise caution with herbal supplements like ginseng and saw palmetto due to insufficient safety data.

While herbal supplements such as ginseng and saw palmetto are popular for their health benefits, their safety during pregnancy remains a topic of concern. Up to 10% of pregnant individuals in Norway report using these herbal products, underscoring the necessity to understand their effects. The FDA does not regulate herbal supplements with the same rigor as medications, especially concerning pregnancy and lactation, leading to a lack of standardized safety information. Healthcare providers, including experts from the Mayo Clinic, recommend caution due to the insufficient safety data surrounding these supplements during pregnancy.
By Sarah Mitchell, Medical Expert & Sports NutritionOctober 2, 20252 min read

Are Herbal Supplements Safe During Pregnancy?

Herbal supplements, including ginseng and saw palmetto, lack sufficient safety data for use during pregnancy, warranting caution.

Herbal supplements, including ginseng and saw palmetto, lack sufficient safety data for use during pregnancy, warranting caution. Discussion on the general safety of herbal supplements during pregnancy, highlighting the lack of regulation and standardization by the FDA. Mention specific advice from healthcare providers and institutions like the Mayo Clinic.

What Are the Effects of Ginseng on Pregnancy?

The safety of ginseng during pregnancy is under-researched, leading many healthcare professionals to advise against its use.

The safety of ginseng during pregnancy is under-researched, leading many healthcare professionals to advise against its use. Examine available studies on ginseng's effects during pregnancy, including any reported risks or adverse outcomes. Highlight the gap in research and the general recommendation for caution.

What Are the Effects of Saw Palmetto on Pregnancy?

Like ginseng, saw palmetto lacks sufficient research to deem it safe for use during pregnancy, and healthcare providers typically recommend avoidance.

Like ginseng, saw palmetto lacks sufficient research to deem it safe for use during pregnancy, and healthcare providers typically recommend avoidance. Detail the lack of research on saw palmetto's safety during pregnancy and the potential risks involved. Discuss why healthcare professionals recommend pregnant individuals to avoid it.

What Herbal Supplements Are Considered Safe During Pregnancy?

Few herbal supplements are considered safe during pregnancy, with ginger and peppermint being notable exceptions for their nausea-relieving properties.

Few herbal supplements are considered safe during pregnancy, with ginger and peppermint being notable exceptions for their nausea-relieving properties. List herbal supplements that have been deemed safer for use during pregnancy, focusing on those with research backing their safety and efficacy, such as ginger for nausea.

  • Ginger
  • Peppermint

Guidelines for Herbal Supplement Intake During Pregnancy

Consult healthcare providers before taking any herbal supplements during pregnancy and adhere to established guidelines to ensure safety.

Consult healthcare providers before taking any herbal supplements during pregnancy and adhere to established guidelines to ensure safety. Outline guidelines for the safe intake of herbal supplements during pregnancy, including consulting with healthcare providers, focusing on dosage, and avoiding unregulated products.

References

  1. The safety of herbal medicinal products derived from Echinacea species: A systematic review (academic, 2018) - View Source(article)
  2. Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling (Drugs) Final Rule (government, 2015) - View Source(article)
  3. Herbal medicinal product use during pregnancy and the postnatal period: a systematic review (academic, 2014) - View Source(article)
  4. Use of herbal drugs during pregnancy among 600 Norwegian women in relation to concurrent use of conventional drugs and pregnancy outcome (academic, 2012) - View Source(article)
  5. Herbal Supplements: Considerations for Pregnant Women (industry, 2020) - View Source(article)

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell
Sarah Mitchell

Medical Expert & Sports Nutrition

Board-certified physician with over 15 years of experience in sports medicine and nutritional science. Specializes in evidence-based supplement recommendations for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Published researcher in several peer-reviewed journals on performance nutrition.

View all articles by Sarah →

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement routine or if you have specific health concerns.