2.9.1. Benefits of clary sage

based on two clinical trials, there was positive association with red raspberry use and astringency in the case of diarrhoea. Daily recommended dose is 1.5–5 g [23–24]. Traditionally, red raspberry leaf has been used in late pregnancy to shorten the duration of labour and to reduce complications of pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult a doctor or a pharmacist for advice before using red raspberry leaf in pregnancy in a tea or infusion [49]. Red raspberry fruit is not believed to pose risk to the mother or to the baby during pregnancy. Some women take it as a labour aid during the last 2 months before delivery, whereas others take it throughout the pregnancy. In a randomized clinical trial, 192 women at 32 weeks of gestation received 1.2 g of raspberry leaf tablets twice daily. The study reported no adverse effects to mothers or infants. The active treatment with raspberry leaf shortened the second stage of labour and lowered the rate of forceps delivery. A retrospective observational study conducted on 108 pregnant women showed that 57 women who ingested raspberry leaves were less likely to have an artificial rupture of membranes or to require caesarean section, forceps or vacuum birth than 51 controls [50–51]. Women have used red raspberry leaves for painful periods in pregnancy, morning sickness, to prevent miscarriage, easing labour and

There are two types of chamomile: German and Roman. The common German variety comes from the flower Matricaria recutita, and the less common Roman variety comes from the flower Chamaemelum nobile. German chamomile is used in teas and other supplements such as capsule

Chamomile is used as a mild sedative and to aid digestion [32]. It has been used for the treatment of morning sickness [54]. German chamomile is the type used most often as a medicinal herb, extracts of which have been reported to increase the tone of uterus muscle [53]. Chamomile does not contain caffeine, which makes it safer for pregnant women, but there is some controversy over the safety of certain herbs not fully described by the Food and Drug Administration. There is insufficient information to say for sure whether chamomile can cause harm during pregnancy. As with many other herbs, the full effect of chamomile, especially in association with other medicines and herbs, has not been studied

Chamomile may cause increased blood flow, contractions, miscarriage or premature labour. It

delivery and enriching breast milk [52].

The untoward effect of red raspberry needs further investigations.

2.7.2. Untoward effects of red raspberry

2.8. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)

and oils [53].

108 Herbal Medicine

2.8.1. Benefits of chamomile

conclusively [55].

2.8.2. Untoward effect of chamomile

can also cause allergic reactions [47].

It is recommended that clary sage only be used from 37 weeks onwards. It may be used to induce labour if the body is ready to go into labour. It may stimulate the release of oxytocin in pregnant women [56]. Using clary sage is highly recommended during labour to help contractions to intensify and become more effective in pulling up the horizontal uterine muscles to open the cervix and move the baby down into the pelvis and into the birth canal. The simplest and most common way to use clary sage during labour is to put a few drops on to dry cloth; the mother will inhale the aroma when she needs it to help herself become more calm and relaxed during contractions [56–57].

#### 2.9.2. Untoward effects of clary sage

Large doses best avoided for concern of potential miscarriage and abortifacient effect [47].

#### 2.10. Anise (Pimpinella anisum)

Anise is known as aniseed. There are two types of anise: anise (Pimpinella anisum) and star anise (Illicium verum) Chinese star anise [58].

#### 2.10.1. Benefits of anise

Orally, anise is used for dyspepsia, flatulence, rhinorrhoea (runny nose) and as an expectorant, diuretic, and appetite stimulant. Anise is also used to increase lactation and facilitate birth. Topically, anise is used for lice, scabies and psoriasis treatment. Using anise during pregnancy is likely safe when used orally in amounts commonly found in food. There is insufficient reliable information available about safety of anise when taken orally in medicinal amounts during pregnancy [59]. Anise used in small amounts in herbal tea is safer in pregnancy because exposure is relatively low [58].

#### 2.10.2. Untoward effects of anise

When used topically, anise in combination with other herbs can cause localized pruritis. In allergic patients, inhaled or ingested anise can cause rhino conjunctivitis, occupational asthma and anaphylaxis [59]. Essential oil and concentrated anise should be avoided in pregnancy for the concern that they might trigger early labour [58].

#### 2.11. Green tea (Camellia sinensis)

Green tea is mostly consumed in Middle East.

#### 2.11.1. Benefits of green tea

Green tea is important to regulate blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure levels. It also speeds up the body's metabolic rate and provides a natural source of energy. It can help stabilize a pregnant mother's mood [60]. However, drinking too high a dose of green tea is not recommended. The recommended dose of caffeine per day is 300 mg [61].

2.12.2. Untoward effects of thyme

2.13. Coconut

products [67–69].

2.13.1. Benefits of coconut

2.13.2. Untoward effects of coconut

2.14. Echinacea (Echinacea spp)

2.14.1. Benefits of Echinacea

2.14.2. Untoward effects of Echinacea

2.15. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

medicinal crops produced in the US [77].

20 ml tincture.

Consumption of a large dose of thyme has an emmenagogue effect. Therefore, it is better to avoid it, especially in early pregnancy, because of concern of potential miscarriage [47].

Herbal Medicine Use during Pregnancy: Benefits and Untoward Effects

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.76896

111

Countries within the Southeast Asian region are rich in coconut oil and other coconut by-

Studies reported that coconut oil has been used to facilitate labour, delivery and prevent congenital malformation [70–72]. Coconut oil during pregnancy can be used as part of a healthy nutrient-dense whole food diet. Coconut oil supplies rich amounts of saturated fat with high amounts of lauric acid. The saturated fat content helps to build up adequate fat

The study conducted to investigate the effect of virgin coconut oil on mice showed that virgin coconut oil could affect infant growth and appearance via maternal intake. The study also suggests the use of virgin coconut oil as herbal medicine to be treated with caution [74].

Echinacea species came from North America and were traditionally used by the Indians for a variety of diseases, including mouth sores, colds, injuries, tooth pain and insect bites [75].

One clinical trial study shows positive association of echinacea consumption in reducing duration and recurrence of cold and urinary tract infection [76]. The recommended dose is 5–

Peppermint is one of the world's oldest medicinal herbs and is used in both Eastern and Western traditions. Ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian cultures used the herbs in cooking and medicine. Peppermint is currently one of the most economically important aromatic and

The untoward effect of using echinacea during pregnancy needs further study.

stores in pregnancy and in preparation for breast-feeding [73].
