Herbs and Supplements to Avoid

These herbs and supplements are not safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding:

• Ammi visnaga is a flowering plant that may stimulate the uterus.^D1
• Berberine is a chemical found in some plants that is taken as a supplement.
• Bitter melon is a tropical, fruit-like gourd.
• Black cohosh is a plant that can be taken as a supplement.
• Cannabis is an herb. It may cause preterm birth.
• Cat's Claw is a vine that can be taken as a supplement or tea. It may cause spontaneous abortion.
• Chamomile is a flower. When taken as a tea it may lead to health problems. It is likely safe to use on the skin.
• Cinnamon is a spice that comes from a tree. It can be toxic in large amounts.^D1
• Dong quai is a plant. The root is taken as a supplement or tea and may negatively affect the fetus.
• Fenugreek is an herb that is taken as a supplement. It may cause contractions.^{A1, A2}
• Feverfew is a flower that can be taken as a supplement or made into a tea. It may cause contractions.
• Goldenseal is a plant that contains berberine.
• Licorice is a plant. The root has been used as a flavoring and can be taken as a supplement or tea.^B1
• Melatonin is a supplement that has been used to improve sleep. It has not been tested in pregnant women.
• Pennyroyal is a plant that may lead to spontaneous abortion when taken as high doses.
• Red clover is a flower that can be taken as a supplement.^C1
• Red yeast rice is traditional Chinese food item that can also be taken as a supplement.
• Sage is an herb that may cause miscarriage in pregnant women when taken in large amounts.^D1
• Thyme is an herb that may cause miscarriage in pregnant women when taken in large amounts.^D1
• Vitamin B 6 is a supplement. It may be safe to take but can interact with anti-nausea medicines.
• Willow bark comes from a tree. It may not be safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.^D1