The Flu, Pregnancy and Herbs

For full information about pregnancy, please go to the tab that says “Women’s Concerns”.  I have listed extensive information about pregnancy, concerns and good health on that page. Here is a quick list of  safe herbs and supplements that you can take during pregnancy for the flu. This list sticks to the more conservative side because extensive testing on herbs during pregnancy has not been done but I am hoping it will be done eventually. Any supplements that you may want to try or take while you have the flu or another virus or bacterial infection must be talked over with your health care giver. My information has come from combined sources of the FDA, my ND, and from my own research. I list only the ones that have commonality. Listed are two that are asked about the most often but cannot be taken.

Herbs are medicines! You must understand this. Just because it says it is a tea does not make it safe for you to drink.You must keep your doctor, ND, or midwife apprised of what you are taking or drinking.

Echinacea: There are only a few clinical tests that have been done regarding the safety of  Echinacea taken during pregnancy. There just is not enough testing that has been done and would not risk my baby’s health or well being without having sufficient information that Echinacea is safe to take during pregnancy. Echinacea is not recommended for children under the age of two so that should tell you that your baby, that you are carrying, should not be given that either. If you are getting ill, I would suggest taking extra Vitamin C, drinking  Red Raspberry Tea and Chamomile Tea, and continue taking Kelp which releases Iodine from the Thyroid gland and acts as an infection fighter. Even taking really hot baths is not recommended for the baby. If you are getting sick, I would take a good soak in the tub but only using warm water, bundle up, and get into bed and rest. Take a big glass of water with you and sip the water. If you begin to run a fever, definitely contact your doctor or midwife and keep them apprised of your condition.

Goldenseal: Goldenseal is a definite no no during pregnancy as it can bring on bleeding or even miscarriage.

Raspberry: Is very good for you. It keeps the muscles in the womb  nourished but it also keeps you from any spontaneous bleeding. It is extremely nutritious as it is high in minerals and vitamins.

Rose Hips: Is full of vitamin C and is a safe infection fighter.

Peppermint Tea: Can be safe and useful if you are ill but should be taken in small amounts. I would suggest no more than one to two small cups a day. If you are feeling unwell, brew a cup and just sip from it occasionally to relieve stomach upset and to lower fever.

Alfalfa: Is considered by the FDA to be safe in small amounts while pregnant. It is filled with minerals. A green drink would be the best way to take this. Put a few teaspoons in a a cup of water and use a little of it as a gargle. You should gargle for 10 seconds or more and then just swallow it. Only use a few ounces from the cup, at a time, throughout the day. One cup will last you all day. There is always a salt water gargle that you can use in between for a sore throat too. Our green drinks are listed below. Chlorophyll works wonders on a sore throat. I have seen it clear up strep pockets in the throat in as few as 2 times of gargling.

Chamomile Tea: Is considered safe but again I would suggest no more than 2 cups in a day. It is safe for babies in small amounts so it is undoubtedly safe during pregnancy.  As with all medicines, you must be cautious.

BOOMERANG AIR SYSTEM

If you are pregnant, have small children, or  someone in your household that has a compromised immune system, the Boomerang is an investment that will pay for itself by keeping you from paying the costs of seeing your health care provider.  This amazing unit kills airborne microbes and neutralizes pollen and particulates, making the air you breathe cleaner and less harmful. The unit sanitizes 2,000 square feet of open living space, and it requires no cleaning or filter replacement. If you order this, by signing up to be a member under me, I will send you an extra bottle of Silver Shield. *Silver Shield is not ok’d by by my company to take while pregnant. You would need to talk to a Naturopathic doctor or your regular doctor. I have a referral list (see tab above) that I am starting to help you choose good NDs or Chiropractors. Also, I will supply you with as much good health information as you need, you can be put on my monthly email for herbal updates, you will not be required to order ever, but when you do order the second time, shipping is free, and every order you place will be at membership prices for a year.

My website for ordering is http://www.mynsp.com/barbarasherbbasket   Please enter in my sponsor number which is 2287825-8 and put in my full name of Barbara Berger. I sincerely appreciate your business. Some of the products above are linked to my web. If you click on the herbs listed, you will see which ones we sell.