What precautions can I take while using herbal treatment during pregnancy?
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Boston Women's Health Book Collective answered:Many women think that because herbs are "natural," they are always safe. This is not true. Herbs can be potentially dangerous, just like other medicines. If you use an herbal treatment regularly or are considering using one during your pregnancy, do some research and talk it over with your health care provider.
In the United States, herbs are categorized as supplements, not drugs. Because of this, the FDA does not have the same control over testing and labeling requirements for herbs as it does for conventional medicines. Manufacturers do not have to provide proof that the herbal therapy works or is safe, and they do not have to guarantee the consistent strength of their herbal products. As a result, accurate information about herbal therapies during pregnancy is even more difficult to find than accurate information about conventional medicines.
Many women think that because herbs are "natural," they are always safe. This is not true. Herbs can be potentially dangerous, just like other medicines. If you use an herbal treatment regularly or are considering using one during your pregnancy, do... More
