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Healing with plants: it’s herbal medicine
Herbal medicine is the art of healing by plants which contain very active molecules. No need to look far: we often find a lot of things in the vegetables and herbs on our plates, in a non-toxic dose. For stronger effects, it is better to choose wild or organically grown plants, without pesticide residues, available in herbalists or specialized pharmacy. In addition, the concentrations of active molecules also depend on the way in which the plants are used: in herbal teas (ideal when pregnant), in capsules (for a more marked effect), in hydrosols (without alcohol), in mother tincture (with alcohol ) …
Precautions to be taken with herbal medicine
Many plants are totally contraindicated, such as rosemary or sage – except in cooking, in small doses – because they stimulate the uterus. Before choosing a plant, you should take advice from a pharmacist specializing in herbal medicine. Also watch out for certain concentrated forms such as essential oils, which are not recommended during pregnancy because they are very active.
Ginger to fight nausea
At the start of pregnancy, nearly 75% of women are bothered by morning sickness, even which persists throughout the day. Unexpected but simple solution: ginger. Several recent scientific studies have shown its effectiveness against nausea. Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s a quick fix. But compared to a placebo, the effects are clear. In addition, ginger has been shown to be just as effective as vitamin B6, which is sometimes prescribed for vomiting. No need to get complicated and run to herbalists or pharmacies in search of ginger rhizome. The candied version is more than enough.
Read also “Fruits and vegetables, for a healthy pregnancy”
Cranberry to treat cystitis
This small American red berry contains molecules that attach themselves to the wall of the bladder and prevent the adhesion of Escherichia coli bacteria which, by proliferating, are responsible for cystitis. However, pregnancy is precisely a sensitive period for the urinary sphere. Cystitis is more common if left untreated, it can lead to infections causing premature births. At the slightest urinary discomfort, it is therefore essential to consult a doctor to find a suitable medication. The ideal is to prevent the appearance of these disorders. Hence the interest of cranberry juice, at the rate of one glass every morning. See also “Urinary tract infections and pregnancy: be careful! “
Raspberry leaf tea to facilitate labor during childbirth
Not widely used in France, but real success in Anglo-Saxon countries: herbal tea made from raspberry leaves at the end of pregnancy. It acts on the uterus and facilitates labor. Australian researchers have even discovered that the deliveries went better (less forceps, cesarean sections, or the need to rupture membranes to speed up labor, etc.), but these benefits have yet to be validated by further research. The right herbal tea? 30 g of leaves in a liter of water, infused for about 15 minutes, every day during the 9th month (never before!).
The other “miracle” plants
The herbal teas of our grandmothers also turn out to be real magic potions for pregnant women. Chamomile and lemon balm are soothing, star anise (star anise) fights against bloating, and presle improves the elasticity of tendons and ligaments, often very stressed during this period. The latter would even prevent stretch marks (you can take two capsules of dry extract each morning).