The final point while taking care of people is by making prescriptions and doctors are generally concerned and exercise extreme caution when dealing with pregnant women, lactating mothers, and pediatrics ( Children)

As a way of safeguarding the life of the foetus first and the mother at large, almost all herbally manufactured drugs are not taken during pregnancy.

However, you will be amazed to hear that some herbs could actually help build the tone of the womb and protect pregnancy hence administration or use in pregnancy is not prohibited. Yes, you heard me right.

Vernonia amygdalina or bitter Leaf is one such herb. According to the US national institute of Health, Interestingly, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina are regularly consumed as food additives during pregnancy, generally in the form of soup that is called bitter leaf soup, to promote easy progression, strengthen or tone the uterus muscle and prevent complications, such as pain, bleeding and abortion.

However, G Achema et al 2012 found that administration of a low dose of 300mg/kg of the aqueous extract causes abortion. Therefore caution needs to be taken in their administration.

Reference
1.G Achema, A Emmanuel, M Oguche (2012). Evaluation of the use of herbal drugs by pregnant women in Nigeria.
African Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health 6 (2), 78-83, 2012.