Motherwort is an herbal remedy commonly used to treat a variety of medical conditions. It also often is mentioned on pregnancy forums and online chats as a possible way to induce or assist labor; however, motherwort is not considered safe for use during pregnancy, especially during the first two trimesters, as its effects on the uterus are not known. Always talk to your doctor before using alternative treatments.
Identification
Motherwort is an herbal remedy that has been used to treat heart conditions since the time of the ancient Greeks, but according to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, there is little evidence that motherwort actually is helpful for any heart-related illnesses. It does show promise for antiviral and anti-tumor use, though Beth Israel reports that this information is purely preliminary and requires further research. In addition, its safety has not been thoroughly studied. While it has been used for women's issues historically, motherwort should be used with care by those with liver or kidney disorders, as well as with children and women who are nursing.
Motherwort and Women's Issues
Motherwort has been used regularly in Europe to bring on a woman's period and assist with uterine contractions both during and after labor. Motherwort has a potentially stimulating effect on a woman's uterus and can have effects associated with those contractions. A woman whose period is late could, in theory, use motherwort to trigger the start of her bleeding. In addition, motherwort has been used traditionally to help women in labor, much like women are induced with more traditional medicines today. Motherwort also has been used after birth to help a woman expel her placenta.
Herbals and Pregnancy
Women must be extra careful about what goes into their bodies once they become pregnant. Just because an herbal remedy is available over the counter does not make it safe, especially if it can potentially affect the developing baby. While some herbal remedies have the potential to offer relief from pregnancy-related ailments, the American Pregnancy Association warns that there is little research regarding the effects of most herbal remedies on pregnant women. In addition, herbal remedies are not regulated by the FDA. Because some herbs can have potentially harmful effects on an unborn baby, always check with your doctor regarding the use of any herb during pregnancy.
Motherwort in Pregnancy
Beth Israel advises pregnant women to avoid using motherwort during pregnancy, regardless of timing or purpose. Because it can stimulate contractions of the uterus, motherwort could potentially trigger early labor. Some women might look to motherwort for help in inducing labor when they are ready or overdue, but there is little research regarding the safety of this practice. It is best to skip the motherwort throughout your pregnancy. If you are interested in natural ways to induce your labor, check with your obstetrician for advice on how to do so safely.
