Herbs & Supplements for Pregnancy
Everyone has a uniquely individual relationship with herbs and supplements. Their effects can vary from person to person, so it’s important to trust your intuition and practice body literacy when choosing what to take. I prefer whole-food forms whenever possible because many commercial supplements contain fillers and often provide very little of the nutrients they claim. Whole-food and pure herbal preparations are generally higher quality and more easily absorbed by the body.
Nutritive herbs
Nutritive herbs are herbs that provide essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and amino acids to support the body’s overall health, strengthen tissues, and maintain normal bodily functions. Unlike medicinal herbs that primarily target a specific ailment or symptom, nutritive herbs are more focused on building and nourishing the body over time.
Examples: Nettle, Oatstraw, Red Raspberry Leaf, Alfalfa Leaf (NORA)
Form: Tea/infusion, tonic
Adaptogens
Adaptogens are natural substances, usually herbs or mushrooms, that help the body adapt to physical, mental, and emotional stress. They work by supporting balance and resilience in the body, helping the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems function more efficiently. Adaptogens are most effective when used consistently over time, rather than for immediate effects.
Examples: Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Tremella
Form: Tincture
Digestion & Liver
Fresh Ginger & Mint: Aid digestion and relieve mild nausea or morning sickness. Form: Tea or culinary
Dandelion & Burdock Root: Support liver function, healthy digestion, and bowel regularity. Form: Tincture
Milk Thistle: Supports liver health and detoxification. Form: Tea or tincture
Magnesium citrate: Helps with constipation and bowel regularity. Form: Supplement
Headaches
Adrenal cocktails, electrolytes: Support hydration and blood sugar balance.
Adaptogens (long term use): Help reduce tension-related headaches through stress support.
Feverfew: Prevents migraines and reduces headache intensity. Form: Tincture
California poppy: Pain relief. Form: Tincture
Sleep & Discomfort
Magnesium glycinate: Supports relaxation, sleep quality, and helps relieve muscle aches or spasms. Form: Supplement
California poppy: Helps with insomnia. Form: Tincture
Milky Oats: Strengthens and soothes the nervous system, supporting stress resilience. Form: Tincture
Lavender & Chamomile: Promote relaxation and restful sleep. Forms: Tea, hydrosol, body oil, sitz bath
Whole Food Supplements
Beef organs: Rich in iron, B vitamins, vitamin A, and overall energy support. Form: Supplement or culinary
Cod liver oil: Omega-3 fatty acids & fat-soluble vitamins (A & D) for fetal brain and eye development. Form: Oil
Disclaimer: While herbs can be deeply healing and supportive, they are not a “magic cure” like pharmaceuticals. Their benefits unfold alongside conscious lifestyle and diet choices. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare professional if you are unsure before using herbs or supplements. Above all, do what feels best for your body—these are suggestions, not a rigid rule book.
