Is slippery elm safe for pregnancy?

Is Slippery Elm Safe for Pregnancy?
The safety of slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) during pregnancy is a topic of considerable debate among health professionals and herbalists. While some sources suggest that it may offer benefits, others caution against its use due to potential risks.
Potential Benefits of Slippery Elm
Slippery elm is often praised for its soothing properties, particularly for digestive issues. It contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that can coat and soothe the digestive tract, potentially alleviating symptoms such as heartburn and nausea, which are common during pregnancy. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that slippery elm may help reduce vaginal irritation and vomiting, making it appealing for pregnant women seeking natural remedies.
Concerns and Risks
Despite these potential benefits, there are significant concerns regarding the use of slippery elm during pregnancy. One of the primary issues is the lack of comprehensive research on its safety for pregnant women. Some sources indicate that slippery elm could lead to complications, including the risk of miscarriage, particularly if used inappropriately, such as through insertion into the cervix.
Moreover, slippery elm may interfere with the absorption of certain medications and nutrients, which is a critical consideration during pregnancy when nutritional needs are heightened. This interaction could potentially affect both maternal and fetal health.
Expert Opinions
Health professionals generally advise caution. Many recommend avoiding slippery elm altogether during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester when the risk of miscarriage is higher. The American Pregnancy Association notes that while some herbs can be beneficial, others, including slippery elm, should be approached with caution.
Conclusion
In summary, while slippery elm may offer some relief for common pregnancy-related discomforts, the potential risks associated with its use cannot be overlooked. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare providers before using slippery elm or any herbal remedies to ensure safety for both themselves and their developing babies. As always, individual circumstances can vary, and professional guidance is crucial in making informed decisions about herbal supplementation during pregnancy.

Does slippery elm affect hormones?

How does it work ? Elm bark contains constituents that might help to normalize hormone levels in some women with infertility.

What herbs cause uterine contractions?

Herbs such as blue and black cohosh, raspberry leaf tea, and evening primrose oil have been sold as a way to “prepare” your uterus for labor. Not so fast. Cohosh has been associated with fetal heart failure and stroke as well as maternal complications during labor.

Is it safe to take slippery elm while pregnant?

There is some folk herbal history that Slippery elm may cause miscarriage, however, it is unclear whether this refers to the practice of inserting Slippery elm preparation vaginally or taking the herb orally. DO NOT take any herbal supplements when pregnant or breastfeeding unless you’re under a provider’s supervision.

Who shouldn’t take slippery elm?

Supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA in the same way that drugs are. The FDA does not review these supplements for safety or efficacy before they hit the market. Slippery elm may not be safe for children or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. If you’re pregnant, avoid slippery elm.

What does slippery elm do to the gut?

Recent studies have shown that slippery elm bark can help treat the symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Is it safe to take ashwagandha while pregnant?

In some individuals, ashwagandha preparations may cause drowsiness, stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. Although it is rare, there have been a number of cases that link liver injury to ashwagandha supplements. Ashwagandha should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding.

What supplements should be avoided during pregnancy?

Supplements to avoid during pregnancy

• Vitamin A. You’ll often find vitamin A in your prenatal vitamins since it’s so important.
• Vitamin E.
• Black cohosh.
• Goldenseal.
• Dong quai.
• Yohimbe.
• Other herbal supplements considered unsafe during pregnancy.

What herbs should be avoided during pregnancy?

Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy

Scientific Name	Common Name(s)	Form of Use
Peumus boldus	Boldo	Tea
Piper methysticum	Kava kava	Liquid extracts, capsules
Rhamnus purshiana	Espino cerval, Buckthorn	Tea, capsules
Rheum spp	Ruibarbo, Rhubarb	Tea, capsules

Can I take slippery elm while on birth control?

It is recommended that you avoid taking slippery elm at the same time as any oral medications.

What supplements should you not take when pregnant?

Supplements to avoid during pregnancy

• Vitamin A. You’ll often find vitamin A in your prenatal vitamins since it’s so important.
• Vitamin E.
• Black cohosh.
• Goldenseal.
• Dong quai.
• Yohimbe.
• Other herbal supplements considered unsafe during pregnancy.