Who should not use herbal medicine?

Pregnant women should never use herbs unless specifically advised and monitored by a physician.

Pregnant women should never supplement with an herbal preparation unless under close medical supervision. Some herbs may directly induce miscarriage by causing the uterus to contract, including fenugreek, pleurisy root, and vervain, among others. Other herbs may harm the baby, causing genetic mutations or abnormalities in development.

Science has not yet discovered the effects of most herbs on pregnancy or long-term infant health. Women should therefore avoid all forms of herbal supplementation during pregnancy unless directly recommended and supervised by a physician.