Is Echinacea Safe During Pregnancy
As cold and flu season approaches, dealing with the symptoms can be especially agonizing during pregnancy. Safe medications for relief are limited, making it even more challenging for expectant mothers. Additionally, the immune system is slightly suppressed during pregnancy, which increases vulnerability to illness. Thankfully, there are natural remedies that can help.
While not all herbs are safe for use during pregnancy and some lack sufficient testing, there are several that have been shown to be both safe and effective. One of our favorites at Twin Cities Birth Center is Echinacea. This herb has been proven to reduce the duration of colds and prevent them from recurring, and it’s safe for use during pregnancy. Read on to learn more about how Echinacea can be safely incorporated into your wellness routine during pregnancy.
What is Echinacea?
Echinacea is an herb derived from the roots, stems, and flowers of the plant Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower). Active ingredients and their strengths depend on which type and parts of the Echinacea plants are used, and how it’s made. Echinacea can come in many forms, such as teas, capsules, tablets, tinctures, and topicals.
Benefits of Echinacea for Pregnancy:
Pregnant women get colds just like everyone else, so it's important to support your immune system during pregnancy. Echinacea has many health benefits, such as reducing the duration of colds and preventing them from recurring. This herb can be safely used in pregnancy before the onset of a cold or during a bout of illness.
Below are a few benefits of Echinacea:
Boosts immunity
Fights off colds
Anti-inflammatory
Fights urinary tract infections
Is Echinacea tea safe during pregnancy?
Yes, Echinacea tea is generally safe to use during pregnancy in small amounts. Because many herbs have not been extensively studied in pregnant women, and others are known to be unsafe, it is important to use herbs with caution and under the guidance of your care provider.
Avoid herbs in the first trimester of pregnancy unless necessary (except ginger to aid with morning sickness).
Use only those herbs with demonstrated safety in pregnancy, and always consult with a knowledgeable care provider about safe herb use for pregnancy.
Using Echinacea: Pregnancy
There are several ways to incorporate Echinacea into your diet. You can take it as a tincture by adding it to a small amount of water, or opt for capsules, which offer a simple and convenient option. Echinacea tea is another popular choice; however, it's crucial to adhere to the recommended dosage and not exceed it.
Be mindful of where you purchase your herbs and supplements, opting for reputable sources such as a food co-op or natural food store like Whole Foods. While Echinacea is safe for occasional use during pregnancy, it should be used sparingly and for short durations when necessary.
How much Echinacea can I take when pregnant?
Herbs used in moderate amounts as tea infusions, along with everyday cooking spices, are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Herbal Combinations: Is Goldenseal Safe During Pregnancy?
No, goldenseal is generally not safe to use as it may cause uterine contractions. Goldenseal is an herb that is often found in supplements and tinctures containing Echinacea. Be sure to look for this when purchasing Echinacea because Goldenseal is not considered safe for use during pregnancy.
Comprehensive Women’s Wellness
Whether you’re expecting or trying to conceive, Twin Cities Birth Center believes in providing the best care to meet your unique needs. Come take a tour of our Birth Center, meet our compassionate team, and see how we can support you in your journey to motherhood. Contact us today to get started.
For more helpful pregnancy tips and resources, visit our blog.