Pulsatilla and gelsemium, two unrelated plants with toxic and medicinal properties, are not appropriate for use during pregnancy. No compelling evidence suggests that these plants' medicinal benefits outweigh their risks at any stage of life, and herbal supplements containing them may cause serious problems during pregnancy. However, expectant mothers can safely use homeopathic preparations made from either plant, since these contain no pharmacologically active compounds. Consult your obstetrician or other prenatal health care provider before using pulsatilla and gelsemium during pregnancy.
Benefits
Pulsatilla and gelsemium may offer some health benefits, but none of the plants' medicinal uses have been validated by well-designed scientific investigations. According to Drugs.com, the rhizome, or root, of the gelsemium plant was used historically to treat respiratory infections and asthma. Pulsatilla, traditionally used to treat menstrual disorders and to induce labor, may also help to combat some forms of cancer. A 2005 study published in the "Chemical and Pharmaceutical Bulletin" demonstrated that 17 compounds in pulsatilla destroy cancer cells in laboratory tests. However, neither plant is proven to be safe or effective for any use.
Uses in Pregnancy
Historically, midwives and folk healers have used pulsatilla flower to induce labor and to strengthen contractions in the uterus. Modern herbalists and midwives typically reject theses uses, since pulsatilla can be acutely toxic and no studies have evaluated its efficacy. Drugs.com reports that compounds in gelsemium root may have pain-relieving effects, although its use as an anaglesic is controversial because of its toxicity. There are no proven benefits associated with the use of pulsatilla or gelsemium during pregnancy, and both products can be extremely dangerous to the mother or fetus if they are used in medicinal doses.
Use in Homeopathy
Pulsatilla and gelsemium are both used in homeopathy, a controversial and unproven medical practice. Homeopathy is rooted in the "like cures like" principle, which posits that an ailment can be cured by a substance that produces similar symptoms in healthy people. The Society of Homeopaths recommends homeopathic pulsatilla as a treatment for pregnancy-related nausea, postpartum mood disturbances and irregular, weak contractions. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, reports that there is no compelling evidence that homeopathic remedies are efficacious for any purpose, including pregnancy-related discomforts.
Safety of Homeopathy
Homeopathic remedies are diluted so heavily that they generally contain no pharmacologically relevant ingredients. For this reason, toxic products such as belladonna, arsenic, gelsemium and pulsatilla are used safely in homeopathic preparations. The Society of Homeopaths recommends homeopathic remedies during pregnancy, noting that they are too heavily diluted to produce side effects in the mother or developing fetus. However, the NCCAM notes that some homeopathic products contain alcohol which could be harmful to the development of a fetus and should be avoided during pregnancy.
Warning
Conventional preparations of pulsatilla and gelsemium should be avoided during all stages of life, particularly pregnancy and lactation. Drugs.com reports that gelsemium root can trigger weakness, excitement, pupil dilation and respiratory depression. Pulsatilla flower is also poisonous and may trigger respiratory problems, anxiety, seizures, coma and death. Because a fetus's organs are poorly developed, an unborn baby may experience these symptoms to an even greater degree than the mother. Use herbal remedies during pregnancy only under the guidance of a qualified obstetrician or midwife.
