What herbs should be avoided while pregnant? It’s best to avoid taking herbs with hormonal activity like saw palmetto and those that stimulate the uterus like dong quai and black cohosh. Admittedly, these aren’t things that the average person comes in contact with at the grocery store. But ginseng is. It appears in products like Asian foods, energy drinks, and herbal teas. Is ginseng safe during pregnancy?
What is ginseng? Why do people use it?
Ginseng is a plant that grows throughout Asia and America. There are different kinds like Korean, Chinese, American, and Siberian. (However, the last plant is actually not related to the others although it has a similar name) (1).
The three main versions of ginseng plants are used in traditional medicine to relieve stress, boost the immune system, and provide energy. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why pregnant women are interested in taking ginseng.
To be honest, it’s a little hard to avoid. Even commercially prepared sweet teas sometimes contain ginseng. That’s why it’s important to check the label to see what’s in your food when you’re pregnant.
What happens if a pregnant woman takes ginseng?
How does ginseng affect a fetus? Animal experiments found that ginseng causes birth defects and fetal growth problems especially if used during the first trimester. The more animal fetuses were exposed to ginseng, the slower their development (2).
What’s interesting is that the warning comes from Hong Kong where ginseng is widely used. Doctors didn’t say that ginseng can cause miscarriage, but they advise avoiding ginseng while pregnant and breastfeeding.
Is green tea with ginseng safe during pregnancy?
One of the most common products with ginseng these days is green tea. Please don’t freak out if you just had a cup of green tea with ginseng and you’re pregnant. Just don’t do it again unless you clear it with your doctor.
Even though people say ginseng is good because it’s a natural thing, not all natural things are safe for a baby in the womb. Think about tobacco or cocaine from the coca plant – you wouldn’t want to give those to a baby.
If you can’t take ginseng during pregnancy, where else can you get energy?
Ginseng is prized because it can give a boost of energy. Plus, it helps prevent premature aging and inflammation with antioxidants (3).
If you want those benefits, you have other options.
How to feel better during pregnancy without taking ginseng
If you’re feeling extra tired during pregnancy, you’re not alone. The combination of nourishing a baby and all the changes happening to your body makes for sleepless nights and extra pain and fatigue.
The usual solution is to rest when you can. Start with trying to sleep better at night. Here are some ideas for that:
Sleep Mask
The first time I tried a sleep mask, I couldn’t believe the difference it made. There’s something about sleeping in utter darkness that makes it extra restful.
Of course, not all sleep masks are equal. Some put too much pressure on the eyes or feel uncomfortable if you lay on your side. I love this one because it has extra soft contoured cups over the eyes. You can blink and even open your eyes while wearing it. The memory foam contouring also helps block light leaks around the nose.
Unlike earlier versions, this eye mask can be washed by hand. That’s important when you’re battling pregnancy acne. It comes with a cloth bag and foam earplugs.
The only complaint I have is the strap. I have mine adjusted so it’s quite loose. However, I have to fiddle with it to get it in the right place because I don’t like to have it over my ears. I had a different eye mask with two straps that left the ear free and I miss that setup.
Momcozy Pregnancy Pillow
If I could give every expectant mother a pregnancy pillow, I would. It’s much more convenient and comfortable than trying to use regular pillows.
This single pillow cradles the back, neck, head, hips, and knees. It works whether you sleep on your side or back. Plus, you can prop it behind your back to read in bed or use it to elevate swollen legs and feet. It’s an all-natural pain reliever.
Happily, it comes with a removable, washable cover that feels just like velvet.
But it’s not just sleeping that matters.
More ways to feel better during pregnancy
You can also benefit from a little sunlight and exercise each day. It’s impressive how much a 10-minute morning walk in the sunshine can lift your mood. If you feel more positive, you’ll feel less pain and have more energy.
Although you may not be able to do your usual exercise routine as your belly grows, maintaining some activity can diminish fatigue.
What’s more, it’s crucial to drink enough water when you’re pregnant. That minimum guideline of 8 glasses per day might not be enough depending on how much you sweat (or vomit).
Sometimes water just doesn’t appeal, though. That’s when something like this comes in handy:
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
I keep some of this on hand in case anyone gets the stomach flu. But it’s for exercise recovery and general hydration, too.
It’s a drink mix powder with a special blend of vitamins and electrolytes. When you mix it with water, it helps your body absorb the water more efficiently and more quickly.
It’s packaged in individual serving packets so you don’t have to worry about making a mess scooping powder. Pour one into a 16-ounce bottle of water, give it a good shake, and enjoy.
The passionfruit flavor is my personal favorite as it’s a little sweet but not too fake.
The good news is that it contains no gluten, dairy, or soy. It provides vitamins B3, B5, B6, B12, and C. Since all of these are water-soluble, taking extra every now and then shouldn’t be a problem. Still, it’s a great idea to talk to your OB/GYN or nutritionist about using this product.
Get antioxidants from what you eat instead of from ginseng
If you’ve been taking ginseng for its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits, you can temporarily replace it with antioxidant-rich foods.
Selenium is a great example. It’s a trace mineral that’s left out of some brands of prenatal vitamins. (That’s because taking too much of it isn’t good for your body). Generally, you can get enough selenium from your diet.
Foods like turkey, chicken, whole-grain bread, and Brazil nuts all have lots of selenium (4).
But that’s not all…
365 by Whole Foods Market, Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Mini Cups
Did you know that dark chocolate has selenium, too? Now you have an excuse to eat it! And when you mix it with protein-packed peanut butter, you’ll get a natural energy boost that also uplifts your mood.
These creamy (really, really creamy, not dry or chalky) peanut butter cups are miniature-sized. They are perfect for portion control (if you have self-control). The bag comes with enough to get you through the week if you have just a couple per day.
No, they are not low-calorie. But they are made with delicious natural ingredients like vanilla bean, cane sugar, and cocoa butter.
Speaking of nuts, nuts have vitamin E and that’s a potent antioxidant. Vitamin E guards against damage caused by pollution and UV rays. Moreover, it helps your body make enough red blood cells to transport oxygen and nutrients to your baby. If you get enough vitamin E, it may help you avoid preeclampsia (4).
Once Again Organic Creamy Cashew Butter
One of the easiest ways to get vitamin E is to eat eggs and spinach. But one of the tastiest ways is to eat cashews. Have you tried cashew butter? It’s like creamy peanut butter but sweeter.
This cashew butter is made from dry-roasted organic cashews and a little bit of cold-pressed sunflower oil. It’s completely additive-free, with no sugar, salt, or preservatives.
One serving of 2 tablespoons provides 5 grams of protein and 190 calories without any trans fat or cholesterol. Think of it this way: if you’re dealing with morning sickness, a little cashew butter on toast makes for a lightweight breakfast or snack with a decent amount of energy.
Also, consider getting more vitamin C because you need 85 mg of it per day. It’s a powerful antioxidant that your body needs every day. It helps you absorb iron to prevent anemia and strengthens your immune system (4).
You can get vitamin C from oranges, red bell peppers, strawberries, pineapple, grapefruit, and sweet potatoes.
I like to maximize my antioxidants with homemade trail mix. I use assorted nuts and unsweetened dried cranberries.
Honestly Cranberry – Unsweetened Dried Cranberries
Put down those name brand berries with added sugar and an oily coating. There’s something better. These fresh and tasty cranberries have no additives at all. They are tart, sweet, and addictive.
Furthermore, cranberries are overflowing with antioxidants and vitamin C. They have proven anti-inflammatory benefits, plus they protect against cancer and urinary tract infections.
Did you know that cranberries also prevent tooth decay?
On the downside, it’s best to eat them in moderation. Excessive amounts of cranberries might increase the risk of bleeding by thinning your blood and they can cause kidney stones. But those facts shouldn’t stop you from enjoying cranberries in your cereal, yogurt, smoothies, and salads.
This particular brand grows them in the USA and has a shelf life of about a year after the manufacturing date.
How to get an energy boost (without ginseng) during pregnancy
Do you have a long day ahead? It seems like a lot of moms struggle to keep up their energy during pregnancy. That’s normal because your body is busy making a baby. Your heart rate and metabolism are faster (5).
You’re burning through the calories, nutrients, and water at a record pace. So, it’s time to add more protein and complex carbohydrates to your diet. These will provide you with more energy throughout the day.
You should be getting about 71 grams of protein each day. That’s easy if you eat meat and eggs. But plants and nuts also provide a significant amount of protein plus complex carbs.
ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars
Up until now, I haven’t fallen in love with any protein bars. My friends all have their favorites, but I’m picky. I don’t want to eat something just because it’s healthy. I want it to taste good and have a decent texture.
So far, these are the best protein bars I’ve found. Each one has 14 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber. They also have 5 grams of sugar, but it’s not processed refined white sugar. Moreover, these vegan snacks are made with organic ingredients and with no soy or dairy. The manufacturer also happens to be a Certified B-Corp.
My favorite flavor is lemon cashew, but they also make chocolate mint, chocolate peanut butter, and chocolate chip cookie dough.
What teas are safe to drink during pregnancy (instead of ginseng)?
The usual guidelines say that you shouldn’t have more than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day. That would be like 4 cups of black tea or 8 cups of green tea. That’s a lot of tea! (6)
Bigelow Premium 100-Percent Organic Green Tea
If you like green tea, this one is ginseng-free. It’s just straight green tea made with dried organic tea leaves. Let it give you a boost of energy and clear your mind.
Conclusion
Usually, ginseng is a beneficial herb, but it’s not a safe choice during pregnancy. There are many other ways you can get similar benefits. There are lots of antioxidants and energy boosters in other foods. Improving your overall health by getting better rest and exercise also helps.
I hope I answered your questions today. I’m always on the lookout for new topics to write about. Feel free to leave me some ideas below.
Sources:
1. https://www.pregnancyfoodchecker.com/ginseng-safe-pregnancy-side-effects-benefits/ Is Ginseng Safe During Pregnancy? Side Effects and Risks, by Samantha Broghammer, RD
2. https://www.webmd.com/baby/news/20030924/early-pregnancy-risk-with-ginseng Early Pregnancy Risk With Ginseng, by Salynn Boyles, published Sept. 25, 2003
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/ginseng Ginseng and Pregnancy: Safety, Risks, and Recommendations, by Jacquelyn Cafasso, medically reviewed by Michael Weber, M.D., published August 2, 2016
4. https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/diet/pregnancy-nutrition-chart/ Pregnancy Nutrition Chart: 32 Essential Nutrients for Pregnant Women, by Jenn Sinrich, Medically Reviewed by Alexandra Paetow, M.S., R.D.N. on June 1, 2022
5. https://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/eating-well/week-9/energy-sources.aspx Best Energy-Boosting Pregnancy Foods, by Jenn Sinrich, Medically Reviewed by Tarun Jain, M.D. on November 11, 2021
6. https://www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/diet-and-fitness/herbal-teas-during-pregnancy_3537 Pregnancy-safe tea, by Hallie Levine, Medically reviewed by Sally Urang, MS, RN, CNM, midwife, published June 8, 2021
