Women's Health ·Jun 30, 2026

Herbal Medicines Safety Aspects For Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

By Peter Orpen — Co-Owner, Teelixir

Published: 2026-06-30 Updated: 2026-06-30

Herbal Medicine in Pregnancy: Traditional Perspectives

When it comes to pregnancy and breastfeeding, the Western approach to herbal medicine is typically limited to treating symptoms like nausea, anxiety, and aiding in childbirth. But in traditional texts from China and India, herbal medicine has a much richer context of use during pregnancy.

The Current State of Research

Unfortunately, scientific studies on the use of adaptogens, medicinal mushrooms, and tonic herbs during pregnancy are essentially nonexistent for ethical reasons. While there is little scientific understanding about the safe and appropriate use of medicinal herbs during this stage of life, traditional knowledge offers valuable insights.

Key Questions About Herbs and Pregnancy

What herbs are safe during pregnancy? Which supplements should be avoided? How can I support fertility naturally? This article explores these questions using historical texts and contemporary wellness perspectives.

Expert Perspectives on Herbal Safety

Dr. Aviva Romm, a renowned expert in the field of herbs and pregnancy, suggests that most herbs have a high safety profile with little evidence of harm. For pregnant women experiencing minor discomforts, natural remedies may offer gentler alternatives to pharmaceuticals.

Important Considerations

Always exercise caution when using herbs during pregnancy. Below you'll find references and recommendations for further exploration.

Male and Female Fertility Improvement

When it comes to preparing for conception and boosting fertility, many people don't realise that it's just as important for men to prioritise their health as it is for women.

From the moment we leave our mother's womb, our bodies are exposed to a world full of toxins and pollutants found in the air, water, food, and our home environment. Yet, we often expect our bodies to function at their best regardless of our physical and mental health. We want to conceive naturally and quickly, but when it doesn't happen, it can cause great emotional distress, which further impedes the woman's ability to become pregnant.

To improve your fertility journey and prepare your body for pregnancy, working with a practitioner ahead of time may help cleanse your body and mind, promote homeostasis, and support your chances of bringing a healthy baby into the world.

Pre-pregnancy planning and conception

These are important moments for both men and women to consider adding adaptogens, medicinal mushrooms, and tonic herbs to their diet. Herbs traditionally used to support liver function may be particularly beneficial.

These ancient herbs have been traditionally used to support the three treasures - Jing, Qi, and Shen - which correspond to three basic levels of life: the reproductive, metabolic, and spiritual. Tonic herbs have been traditionally used to support general wellbeing, promote liver and kidney function, provide nutrients, help manage stress levels, and contribute to overall wellbeing.

In our society, we often focus on treatment rather than prevention. However, during the pre-pregnancy phase, it's important to prioritise wellbeing (both men and women) while trying to conceive. Even if you're not actively trying to conceive, consistently supporting your body with nourishing foods and herbs may help bring you closer to balance.

When the time is right, your body may be better prepared as a strong, resilient vessel ready to create and sustain new life. Taking time to prepare our bodies and minds can support this beautiful journey ahead.

18 Powerful Herbs Naturally Boosting Fertility

Let's explore some remarkable herbs and mushrooms that have traditionally been used to support fertility and conception. These natural remedies can be a valuable addition to your pre-conception routine.

Vitex

Also known as Chasteberry, Vitex is a popular herb for supporting female reproductive health. It is thought to help regulate menstrual cycles and may be beneficial for women with endometriosis.

Cordyceps Mushroom

Cordyceps Mushroom has been traditionally used to support fertility in both men and women. It is also traditionally valued as a lung and kidney tonic.

Shatavari

This herb has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Shatavari is traditionally thought to support general wellbeing.

Maca

Known as Peruvian Ginseng, Maca is traditionally used to support general wellbeing.

Tribulus

Tribulus Terrestris has traditionally been used as a male tonic. It is the subject of ongoing research.

Ashwagandha

This revered Ayurvedic herb is considered a potent adaptogen traditionally used to support general wellbeing.

He Shou Wu

He Shou Wu (Polygonum Multiflorum) is a nutritive herb rich in zinc and iron, traditionally used to support general wellbeing.

Schizandra

Wild Schizandra berry is an adaptogen traditionally used to support liver function. It is also thought to nourish the nervous system and support adrenal health.

Chaga Mushroom

Chaga is a nutrient-rich mushroom that contains bioactive compounds which may support healthy cellular function.

Astragalus Root

Astragalus Membranaceus has been traditionally used to support general wellbeing.

Licorice Root

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been traditionally used to support general wellbeing.

Reishi Mushroom

Reishi is a nervine herb that supports a calm nervous system and promotes healthy sleep.

Pine Pollen

Pine Pollen (Pinus Massoniana Lamb) is rich in micronutrients and has traditionally been used to support general wellbeing.

Damiana

Damiana (Turnera Diffusa) has been traditionally used to support general wellbeing.

White Peony

White Peony (Paeonia Lactiflora) has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to support general wellbeing.

Dong Quai

Dong Quai (Angelica Sinensis) is traditionally used to support general wellbeing.

Nettle

Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a source of iron and has been traditionally used to support general wellbeing.

Pearl

Pearl (Margarita) is rich in micronutrients like calcium and magnesium, traditionally used as a nutritive tonic.

Body Cleansing Process to Improve Fertility Chances

Traditionally used to support general wellbeing

Heavy metals can accumulate in the body and may contribute to various health concerns. Certain foods and supplements may help support general wellbeing:

Celery

Celery contains antioxidants and has diuretic properties that may help support general wellbeing.

Parsley

Parsley is rich in antioxidants and has traditionally been used to support general wellbeing.

Cilantro

Cilantro is thought to help support general wellbeing and is a source of essential minerals.

Citrus

Citrus fruits like lemons, limes and oranges are rich in vitamin C, which may help support general wellbeing.

Binders and Chelators

Certain natural substances like zeolites, clay and activated charcoal may help bind to toxins in the digestive system.

Fulvic Trace Minerals

These mineral supplements may help support nutrient absorption and general wellbeing.

High Antioxidant Foods

Antioxidant-rich foods such as Chaga mushroom, matcha green tea, turmeric root and organic blueberries may help support general wellbeing.

Other Ways to Support General Wellbeing

Infrared saunas and lymphatic brushing are traditional methods that may help support the body's natural elimination pathways.

Excess Toxins and Allostatic Load Elimination

Reducing exposure to environmental toxins may help support overall wellbeing:

Choose Organic Produce and Animal Products

Opting for certified organic produce and animal products may help reduce exposure to agricultural chemicals.

Evaluate Personal Care Products

Many conventional personal care products contain synthetic ingredients. Natural alternatives may be gentler on the body.

Use Natural Cleaning Products

Simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda and essential oils can be effective cleaning alternatives.

Opt for Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Sustainable, non-toxic materials for household items may help reduce chemical exposure.

Optimise Sleep and Reduce Stress

Supporting relaxation and rest may help create favourable conditions for fertility:

Identify Stressors

Recognising sources of stress and developing coping strategies may help support emotional wellbeing.

Prioritise Sleep

Quality sleep is fundamental to health and may help support reproductive function.

Create a Regular Bedtime

Establishing consistent sleep routines may help regulate circadian rhythms.

Create a Dark and Cool Sleeping Environment

A quiet, dark and cool bedroom (18-20°C) may help promote restful sleep.

Your Home Environment Inventory

Our home environment is often filled with toxins and chemicals that we may not even realise. These pollutants can be harmful to our health, but a few simple changes can help eliminate our constant exposure to them. Here are some tips:

Eliminate Black Mould

If there is a history or presence of black mould in your home, it's important to hire a professional to eradicate the mould entirely from your home.

Reduce EMF Exposure

Try reducing your exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) by using rock salt lamps to offset the constant barrage of EMF frequencies surrounding the body.

Add Natural and Warm Light

Add more natural and warm light wherever possible to create a cosy and inviting environment while reducing exposure to harsh artificial lighting.

Introduce Plants

Adding plants to your home may help improve air quality.

Use Eco-Friendly Bedding

Switching to eco-friendly and non-toxic bedding can help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals found in traditional bedding.

Install Water Filters

Connect water filters to kitchen taps and showers to reduce exposure to toxins and chemicals found in tap water.

Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

Switching to non-toxic and eco-friendly cleaning products can help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals found in traditional cleaning products.

Reduce Plastic Usage

Reducing the number of plastics you cook with and eat and drink from can help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals found in plastic.

Identify Any Nutritional Deficiencies and Imbalances

Are you someone who suffers from headaches, migraines, constipation, IBS, eczema, psoriasis, chronic fatigue, anaemia, poor wound healing, or other similar conditions? These symptoms could indicate low-grade inflammation and nutritional deficiencies in your body.

To address these issues, consider consulting with a practitioner who can help you identify the root cause and restore balance in your body. Alternatively, you can take steps on your own to replenish your nutritional stores and improve your fertility and conception prospects.

Key Nutrients and Foods to Eat When Trying to Conceive (Men and Women)

Some key nutrients and their food sources that can enhance your chances of conceiving are:

Selenium: found in brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, beef, and tuna
Zinc: present in oysters, pumpkin seeds, organic eggs, sunflower seeds, herring, mushrooms, cacao, etc
CoQ10: obtained from grass-fed red meat, tuna, sardines, olive oil, walnuts, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, strawberries, grapefruit, apples, etc
Omega-3 fatty acids: available in walnuts, flaxseed, chia seeds, wild-caught salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring, etc
Folate: found in all leafy green and cruciferous vegetables, such as spinach, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, etc
Vitamin C: abundant in all yellow, orange, and red fruits and vegetables, such as bell peppers, citrus fruits, tomatoes, etc
Vitamin D: can be synthesised by the body with the help of sunlight or obtained from food sources like Shiitake mushrooms
Alpha-lipoic acid: present in broccoli, spinach, organ meats, Brussels sprouts, etc
Fulvic minerals: trace minerals that may help support nutrient absorption and utilisation, available in Fulvic Ionic Minerals or similar supplements

The Best Time to Get Pregnant

Women experience two primary phases during their menstrual cycle: the ovulatory phase and the menstrual (menses) phase. Within these two phases, women undergo four phases: the luteal, ovulatory, menstrual, and follicular phases.

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Optimal Time for Pregnancy

Ovulation usually occurs around day 14 of a woman's cycle, where day 1 is the first day of her period. Ovulation occurs when a woman's follicle has matured and releases an egg. The egg travels down the fallopian tubes and waits for a healthy and eager sperm to initiate fertilisation.

For couples trying to conceive, it is recommended to have sex during the days before and after ovulation (day 14) since sperm can survive in the vagina for 2-3 days.

Pregnancy Support in the First Trimester

During the first trimester of pregnancy, it is recommended that no herbs be taken. Using herbs during this phase may cause toxicity to the mother, which may indirectly affect the foetus, toxicity to the foetus, teratogenesis, increased miscarriage risk, and poor neonatal health.

Safe Herbs to Take During Pregnancy

Herbal medicine is predominantly incorporated into pregnancy care based on anecdotal evidence, clinical application, and traditional texts, with contemporary texts and studies mostly suggesting to avoid herbs throughout the pregnancy. However, in some cultures, the use of herbs throughout pregnancy is common.

Safe herbs that can be taken during pregnancy include:

Red raspberry: the oldest and most known plant utilised during pregnancy, traditionally believed to help with labour and childbirth.
Echinacea: traditionally used to support immune health.
Ginger root: traditionally used to support digestive comfort.
Chamomile: traditionally used to promote relaxation.
Always consult with a healthcare practitioner if you have further questions or concerns, and keep in mind that everything is your choice, and it's hard to find answers on a topic that is so individualistic in beliefs, values, and biology.

B1 Category Herbs

Although B1 herbs have been used in clinical research, they have only been taken by a limited number of pregnant women. However, studies have shown that they do not increase the frequency of malformations or other direct/indirect harmful effects on a growing foetus.

Safety During Pregnancy

It's important to emphasise that safety is paramount during pregnancy, and you should always do what you intuitively feel is best for you. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult with your healthcare practitioner.

B1 Herbs

The following herbs fall under the B1 category and can be considered for use during pregnancy:

Codonopsis (Dang Shen): traditionally used to prevent weakness, deficiencies, tiredness, and fatigue, strengthen the stomach, spleen qi, appetite, digestion, build blood, and beneficial for anaemia. Codonopsis is also great postpartum to rebuild and strengthen the Qi.
Panax Ginseng: used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) during pregnancy, and beneficial for low back pain, fatigue, exhaustion, HPA dysregulation/stress, and is stimulating, and improves circulation.
Schizandra berry (Schisandra chinensis): used to assist childbirth and labour and strengthens rhythmical contractions of the uterus. Schizandra should only be used to help and assist childbirth.

The Calming Nature of Reishi benefiting Mother and Child

Reishi mushroom is one of the most widely studied herbs in the world and is traditionally valued for its calming properties, making it a superb adaptogen and Shen (spirit) tonic. It has been traditionally used to support general wellbeing and help manage stress.

Although not clinically stated as a "safe" pregnancy herb, Reishi has been used traditionally in some cultures during pregnancy.

In the book Healing Thresholds: A Modern Journey into Taoist Health Philosophy by Rehmannia Dean Thomas, it is mentioned that within Asia, Reishi is traditionally used by pregnant women to support general wellbeing. Reishi is a very gentle and nourishing adaptogen that may help calm both mother and baby, reduce anxiety, and support overall wellbeing.

Personal Choice

It is important to note that adopting herbs into your pregnancy is a personal and individual choice. Every woman's body is unique, and supplementing with herbs may affect individuals differently based on their biochemical and energetic natures. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare practitioner before taking any herbs during pregnancy.

Postpartum Support

The Postpartum Phase

After childbirth, the postpartum phase begins, which is split into three phases: the acute phase (first 6-12 hours post-childbirth), subacute phase (2-6 weeks), and delayed phase (up to 6 months for some women). During this period, the body readjusts to motherhood and a body that no longer carries a foetus.

Importance of Supporting Mother's Health

Supporting all systems (endocrine, digestive, lymphatic, cardiovascular, etc.) and the overall wellbeing of the mother is crucial during the postpartum phase for both mother and baby. It's all about restoring vitality and strength to the mother, nourishing the organs and blood, as well as the Jing, Qi, and Shen.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common experience for many mothers during this phase. PPD can range from a slight decrease in joy, happiness, identity, and ideas of self to a severe, crippling depression that is uncontrollable. Although there are numerous ideas surrounding why PPD occurs, nourishing oneself is crucial during the postpartum phase to restore balance to neurotransmitters and improve mood.

Nourishment Goes Beyond Food

Nourishment is not just nutritionally from foods and herbs but also includes self-compassion, identifying and dismissing self-judgement, giving oneself space to learn, grow, evolve, and not compare, and understanding that one will get through this. Therefore, it is important to focus on nourishing oneself to nourish the baby in all possible ways during the postpartum phase.

Rebuilding Jing in Postpartum

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Jing is the foundational treasure that translates to our primal essence or life force energy. Jing is our "savings account" of long-term energy, which is depleted through excess stress, worry, exhaustion, overwork, lack of sleep, and childbirth. Jing is connected with longevity, vitality, sexual energy, and creative powers, and can be nourished and preserved using tonic herbs and adaptogens such as Cordyceps mushroom, Reishi mushroom, He Shou Wu root, Eucommia bark, and more.

During pregnancy, kidney Jing is greatly depleted as the mother transfers her Jing energy to the baby during childbirth and breastfeeding. It is vital to decrease any stressors in your life wherever possible to assist the preservation and replenishment of Jing. One traditional way to rebuild Jing is through the consumption of the placenta, which has been utilised for centuries by women.

Understanding Placentophagia

Consuming the placenta is a common practice in traditional communities and traditional medicine systems. In Western cultures, however, it is often viewed as unusual since the placenta is typically discarded as waste after birth.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), women would consume the placenta after giving birth to reclaim vital nutrients used to build the placenta. The traditional method involves cooking the placenta with other Jing and Qi nourishing herbs such as He Shou Wu, Rehmannia, and Schizandra berry. This preparation is then stored and consumed in the following weeks.

Other methods include drying and encapsulating the placenta or adding small pieces to smoothies.

Traditional Uses

The placenta has traditionally been used to:

Support postnatal recovery
Provide a source of iron
Help maintain energy levels
Support lactation

If considering this practice, consult with qualified practitioners in your area.

Assorted foods and ingredients on kitchen counter

Best Foods for Breastfeeding Mothers

Oats
Fennel
Flaxseed
Leafy greens
Ginger
Brewer's yeast
Asparagus
Nuts and seeds
Legumes and whole grains

Herbs and Superfoods Traditionally Used to Support Lactation

Astragalus
Goji berry
Nettle
Fenugreek
Blessed thistle
Alfalfa
Goat's rue
Milk thistle
Schizandra berry
Reishi mushroom
Prepared Rehmannia
Longan fruit

Conclusion

Traditional herbal medicine offers wisdom for conception and pregnancy journeys. Each woman's path to motherhood is unique.

For those considering incorporating herbs or supplements during pregnancy, we recommend consulting with a healthcare practitioner. This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice.

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Book Recommendations and References

For further information and guidance on natural approaches to fertility and herbal medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding, refer to these resources:

Books

Botanical Medicine for Women's Health by Dr Aviva Romm
The Natural Pregnancy Book by Dr Aviva Romm
Naturally Healthy Babies and Children by Dr Aviva Romm
The Nursing Mother's Herbal by Sheila Humphrey
Conceiving Healthy Babies: An Herbal Guide to Support Preconception, Pregnancy, and Lactation
Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year by Susun S. Weed
Brighton Baby: A Revolutionary Approach to Having an Extraordinary Child by Roy Dittmann
Pregnancy and Childbirth: A holistic approach to massage and bodywork by Suzanne Yates
Boost Your Breast Milk: An All-in-One Guide for Nursing Mothers to Build a Healthy Milk Supply by Alicia C. Simpson
Healing Thresholds: A Modern Journey into Taoist Health Philosophy by Rehmannia Dean Thomas
Woman Code: Perfect Your Cycle, Amplify Your Fertility, Supercharge Your Sex Drive, and Become a Power Source by Alisa Vitti, HHC

References

Herbal Medicines Use During Pregnancy: A Review from the Middle East. Lisha J. John1 and Nisha Shantakumari. Oman Med J. 2015 Jul; 30(4): 229–236. doi: 10.5001/omj.2015.48
Herbs in Pregnancy: What's Safe, What's Not? https://avivaromm.com/herbal-medicines-in-pregnancy-safety/

About Eliza Hedley

Eliza is a health, mindset and abundance enthusiast focused on helping millennials experience living at a higher level.

Her holistic approach to nutrition and wellness empowers individuals to understand health as their ultimate asset. After experiencing the benefits of tonic herbalism and medicinal mushrooms firsthand, Eliza advocates for their thoughtful incorporation into modern lifestyles.

Website: https://theholisticsister.com

Instagram: @the_holistic_sister_

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Important Information

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take prescription medications.

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare practitioner before use.

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