alternative-health

15 Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy

December 30, 2010 by Max Winkleman 7 Comments

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For centuries, herbs have been an integral part of human life. They are commonly used for culinary, cosmetic and medicinal purposes. Even though many herbs have been linked to a healthy pregnancy and safe childbirth, there are some herbs which should be avoided during pregnancy, because these herbs can be detrimental to the mother as well as the growing fetus.

A common misconception is that herbs, being natural, do not cause any harm to pregnant women. However, even herbs used mainly for culinary purposes may cause unwanted side effects. Hence, it’s very necessary to have a basic knowledge of the safe and unsafe herbs during pregnancy. Herbs, which have been classified as safe, are further divided as per the stages of pregnancy. While, some are safe only during the first trimester, others are administered only after the first three months.

The following list of herbs have been categorized as unsafe and should not be taken during the entire nine months of pregnancy. Here is the list of unsafe herbs:

1. Aloe Vera

Oral intake of aloe vera juice should be avoided, as it may cause uterine contractions and diarrhea. Usually, aloe vera juice has many nutritional benefits, but during pregnancy, it is wise to avoid consumption of this plant. In fact, it may be best to avoid this herb while breastfeeding as well.

2. Black Cohosh

Black cohosh is another herb that should not be taken during early pregnancy. It’s a strong uterine stimulant that produce contractions, and has also been associated with prolonged bleeding and postpartum hemorrhage.

3. Goldenseal

When used in excess, goldenseal may cause contractions, which could lead to early labor and possibly miscarriage. It can also be harmful for the fetus if used early in pregnancy. It should not be administered to pregnant and breastfeeding women.

4. Comfrey

Comfrey is another herb that may cause liver complications in pregnant women and their growing baby. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should avoid ingesting this herb, as it may be toxic for the baby. External use for sprains is believed to be safe, but should only be done after consulting your doctor.

5. Angelica atropurpurea

Angelica is an herb that can stimulate bleeding and menstruation, as a result this herb can cause strong contractions and lead to miscarriage if taken during the early stages of pregnancy. As a result, this herb will promote the growth of fibroids and increase the risk of post-partum hemorrhage.

6. Autumn Crocus

Pregnancy Herbs

Another potentially dangerous herb for pregnant women, is autumn crocus. It’s widely believed that autumn crocus could lead to birth defects and Down’s Syndrome, however, research is limited and somewhat contradictory. It is recommended to avoid this herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

7. Licorice

In this instance, we’re not talking about licorice candy, we’re actually referring to licorice root. Consuming licorice root may cause high blood pressure in pregnant women. Avoid taking a licorice root supplement, until you have dicussed it with your doctor, as it may be harmful to your growing baby.

8. Mugwort

Mugwort is another common herb that should be avoided during pregnancy. It’s commonly used for treating stomach ache, nausea, colic and as a uterine stimulant, but when taken during pregnancy, it can lead to birth defects.

9. Nutmeg

Nutmeg when used in small quantities is considered safe for pregnant women, however, if taken in large doses, nutmeg may lead to miscarriage for pregnant women. If you stick to only using it for culinary purposes and avoid taking a nutmeg supplement, chances are you’ll be fine. However, it may be wise to discuss the potential dangers of nutmeg with your doctor.

10. Penny Royal Leaf

Penny royal leaf is another herb that should be avoided during pregnancy. Ingesting the essential oil of Penny royal leaf may cause uterine contractions, birth defects and possibly miscarriage. Both internal and external use of this herb should be avoided while pregnant, as well as while breastfeeding.

11. Barberry

This is another herb you should avoid during pregnancy, because it is believed that it causes bleeding in pregnant women. While more research is needed, it’s best to avoid this herb as we don’t know how it will affect your growing baby.

12. Uva Ursi

Uva ursi is another herb that is commonly used to help treat urinary tract infections, kidney infections and constipation. You should avoid this herb because it may could spur early labor, as well as negatively affect the blood sugar levels of pregnant and breastfeeding women. It’s also believed that Uva ursi may hinder the blood flow to your uterus.

13. Saw Palmetto

You should avoid the use of saw palmetto when you’re pregnant, because it decreases the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in your body. If you’re having a little boy, DHT is very important for the development of his genitals. But, if you’re pregnant with a little girl, that doesn’t mean this herb is safe to take, because it has anti-estrogenic effects that will affect pregnant women.

14. Shepherd’s Purse

Shepherd’s purse is another herb you should avoid during pregnancy, as it may constrict blood vessels, resulting in elevated blood pressure. It’s also believed to act like an uterine stimulant, which may spur early labor.

15. Laxative herbs

For optimal health, you should generally avoid laxative herbs like senna, bentonite clay, rhubarb and psyllium husks. But if you’re pregnant, you should especially avoid these types of herbs as they may cause uterine contractions, as well as affect the absorption of much needed nutrients from your food.

Other Herbs to Avoid

Besides from the most dangerous herbs mentioned above, you should also avoid the consumption of borage oil, basil oil, cotton root, elder, false unicorn root, feverfew, henbane, motherwort, peruvian bark, rue, wormwood and yarrow.

Remember, just because some of these popular herbs are considered “all natural,” that doesn’t mean they are safe for you to take. Herbal supplements can be a great addition to your diet, but if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor BEFORE taking any herbal supplements.

Aloe Vera Juice: The Benefits & Side Effects Explained

November 10, 2010 by Max Winkleman 48 Comments

Aloe vera is one of the best known herbs throughout the world, widely used for its numerous health benefits, both internal and external. The health benefits of aloe vera have been well known for centuries, however, at that time it was mostly used to treat wounds and cuts.

Nowadays, we know there are many other health benefits of aloe vera juice, like its use in treating constipation, boosting the immune system, cleansing your colon and relief for acid reflux symptoms. On the flip side, there are also several side effects associated with aloe vera. Today aloe vera is available in the form of juice, gel and powder. No matter what type of aloe vera you decide to pursue, there are benefits of each.

Let’s take a closer look at the many aloe vera juice benefits and side effects in detail.

Aloe Vera Juice Benefits

The following are a few benefits of aloe vera juice, which is why it’s one of the most popular natural products today.

Aloe vera juice is believed to help boost the immune system.
It also has anti inflammatory properties that can help alleviate inflammation, skin irritation, burns and wounds.
Aloe vera has a natural laxative effect, as a result, aloe vera juice is widely used to help relieve constipation.
Drinking aloe juice is another common remedy for acid reflux symptoms, such as stomachaches and heartburn.
Aloe vera juice one of the best detox foods you can ingest. Besides helping with acid reflux, it also helps improve digestion and cleanse your colon.

Side Effects of Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera juice, when consumed in an excess amount, can lead to abdominal cramping, diarrhea, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. One of the benefits of aloe vera juice can also be one of its main side effects, as it helps lower your blood sugar level. This may be potentially dangerous for people already suffering from low blood sugar.

Another side effect of aloe vera is that it may trigger an allergic reaction, such as skin rash and skin irritations for some people. It’s also strongly advised that pregnant women should not drink aloe vera juice, as it may lead to diarrhea. If you are pregnant or lactating, be sure to talk to your doctor BEFORE you start drinking aloe vera juice. It would also be wise for senior citizens to check with their doctor, before drinking aloe juice.

The Best Organic
Aloe Vera Juice on the Market

Although, aloe vera juice are a great complement to a detox and treatment of constipation, it’s not recommended for certain gastrointestinal diseases like irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, diverticulitis, hemorrhoids and stomach ulcers.

Why Drink Aloe Vera?

The bottom-line on aloe vera juice, is that it can be a great addition to your diet. Apart from the various benefits and side effects, there are several other factors that need to be taken into consideration.

First, talk to your doctor before giving aloe juice to children or pregnant women. Secondly, you will only suffer from the side effects of aloe vera juice when you drink too much.

Also, all aloe vera juice products are different. It’s recommended that you only drink organic aloe vera juice, and from a good source. When you do consume aloe juice, you should only drink the amounts listed on the bottle.

Yoga For Fibromyalgia? New Research Indicates It May Help.

November 3, 2010 by Max Winkleman 3 Comments

We all know that yoga is a great exercise to help keep us fit and feeling young. But now, according to new research from Oregon Health & Science University, performing gentle stretches, meditation and other yoga exercises may also help fight the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

The Research

Before you jump to any conclusions about this research, it is important to note that it consists of a rather small pool of participants. Fifty three women were enrolled in the study, all of whom suffered from fibromyalgia.

Twenty five of the participants started taking a two-hour yoga class every week, for eight consecutive weeks. These yoga classes included gentle poses, light stretches, breathing exercises and meditation. The other twenty eight women were instructed to continue on with their standard routine for treating fibromyalgia pain.

Before the yoga class, researchers had the women fill out questionnaires and perform a variety of physical tests. After the class was over, researchers would then evaluate each of the women again. The twenty eight participants in the control group were also evaluated in the same manner as those that took the yoga class.

Comparing the Data

When researchers compared all of the data that they had compiled, they found that the women that took the yoga classes appeared to help with the most serious symptoms of fibromyalgia, including pain, fatigue, depression, insomnia, anxiety and stiffness.

All of the improvements were significant enough that they had a positive impact on every day activities. On average, the women that participated in the yoga classes reduced their pain by 24%, depression by 42% and fatigue by 30%.

What Researchers Are Saying:

James Carson, Ph.D., clinical health psychologist and an assistant professor of anesthesiology and perioperative medicine in the OHSU School of Medicine had this to say about this research:

“Here, we specifically focused on yoga to determine whether it should be considered as a prescribed treatment and the extent to which it can be successful. One likely reason for the apparent success of this study therapy was the strong commitment shown by the study subjects. Attendance at the classes was good as was most participants’ willingness to practice yoga while at home. Based on the results of this research, we strongly believe that further study of this potential therapy is warranted.”

What Can We Learn From This Study?

While this was a very small study, the results still look promising for those suffering from Fibromyalgia. At this point, it’s safe to say that more research needs to be done to say whether or not yoga is truly an effective treatment for this condition.

However, while it doesn’t reach a definitive conclusion, nobody should simply ignore this study. Whether you suffer from Fibyromyalgia or not, there are many benefits associated with yoga, meditation and breathing exercises. So, despite the inconclusiveness of this research, there’s no denying that these are all beneficial activities that can help you follow a healthy lifestule.

So, get out and register for a yoga class now. If you can’t afford to take a yoga class, try to learn a few stretching or breathing techniques online.

The Health Benefits of Flax Seed Oil

October 20, 2010 by Max Winkleman 18 Comments

Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, is extracted from the dried, ripe seeds of the flaxseed plant. It’s usually clear or slightly yellowish in color.

The scientific name of flaxseed or linseed plant is Linum usitatissimum, which is a member of the genus Linum and the plant family, Linaceae. Flaxseed oil is widely used as a supplement, mainly due to the fact that it contains essential fatty acids known as, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

The ratio between fatty acids, like Omega-3 and Omega-6, should be 1:2 in a healthy, balanced diet. However, the Standard American Diet often contains too much omega-6 fatty acids, in comparison to omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil is very high in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help to balance the amount of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in your diet.

Health Benefits of Flaxseed Oil

As mentioned above, flaxseed oil is very high in essential fatty acids. It contains omega-3 essential fatty acid, known as alpha linoleic acid. Alpha linoleic acid is the precursor to two other omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are known as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are the fatty acids that can be found in fish oil supplements. Most of the health benefits of fish oil are attributed to the presence of these two fatty acids.

Both EPA and DHA are known for their immense benefits for the heart and the cardiovascular system. Apart from the cardiovascular system, the immune system, circulatory system, the joints and cartilage of the body and even the nervous system can benefit from flaxseed oil. The most important and noteworthy flaxseed oil health benefits are described below.

1. Lowers Cholesterol

Rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 can help lower the level of cholesterol, especially the bad LDL cholesterol in your blood. The level of triglycerides may also be lowered by flaxseed oil.

2. Boost Cardiovascular System

By lowering the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body, flaxseed oil can help your cardiovascular system, and overall health of your heart.

3. Prevent Atherosclerosis

May help prevent the development of atherosclerosis, which is one of the most important benefits of flaxseed oil. Atherosclerosis is characterized by the accumulation of fatty material along the walls of arteries, which may eventually harden and increase the risk of developing heart and cardiovascular diseases.

4. Regulates Blood Pressure

Sufficient intake of omega-3 essential fatty acids, from fish oil supplements or flaxseed oil, may prove helpful in regulating your blood pressure. If you have hypertension or angine, adding flax to your diet may provide many health benefits.

5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseed oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and may help control inflammatory conditions such as, lupus, gout and arthritis.

6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease

May be beneficial for inflammatory bowel disease. This oil can help to reduce the inflammation of the intestine and is a great food to add to a detox diet.

7. Sjogren’s Syndrome

Flaxseed oil may also help alleviate symptoms associated with Sjogren’s syndrome, including dry eyes and cracked lips.

8. Improves Skin Conditions

Effective in alleviating skin conditions like, eczema, psoriasis, acne and rosacea. All of these are significant flaxseed oil benefits for skin. In addition to these, this oil can promote the growth of healthy hair and nail as well.

9. Health Benefits for Women

Flaxseed oil is especially important for women. They may experience more health including, improvement in uterine functions, regular menstrual cycle, alleviation or reduction of menopausal symptoms and reduction of the risks of breast cancer.

Side Effects of Flaxseed Oil

The side effects of flaxseed oil are not very serious. These side effects include, diarrhea and bloating, which can be experienced if flax oil is taken excessively. Some people may be allergic to flax, and therefore, may experience reactions. If you suffer from bleeding disorders, or take a blood thinner, you should consult your doctor before taking flaxseed oil, because it may raise the risk of bleeding.

Preliminary research on flaxseed oil has expressed a concern that using it excessively, on a long-term basis, it may raise your risk of developing prostrate cancer. However, this side effect is not common. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your doctor before taking flax oil, because the risks/benefits are not completely known yet.

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