There are so many opinions about what a woman can and cannot ingest during pregnancy. Here is a short list of gentle herbs that are tonic in nature and are gentle enough for pregnancy.

The number one prescribed pill for a pregnant mother is the prenatal vitamin. These vitamins contain a form of iron that is not easily assimilated in your body and usually cause constipation and or compound nausea. Women tend to stop taking them when these problems occur, not knowing that there are natural forms of iron and vitamins that do not cause these problems.

It is especially important to be certain of what you are ingesting when you are expecting or nursing a baby. Some things that are safe and gentle for an adult body may be too potent to a developing system. Some classic pregnancy tonic herbs are:

Red raspberry leaf is a common powerhouse of minerals and vitamins that pregnant moms require. It contains potassium, calcium, phosphorus and Vitamins A and C. You can often find it in health food stores in the bulk herb section. It should smell fresh and not the least bit musty. You simply steep the dried, crushed leave in cold water for a few hours then boil the mixture for 10 minutes before straining.

Nettle is another natural source of iron that can be mixed with Red raspberry leaf in a mixture of 1-1 to enhance the overall tea's benefit to your body. nettle is referring to the dry leaves, not fresh-which is difficult to obtain due to the itchy hairs on the plant that cause a temporary rash on your skin.

Rose hips are high in vitamin C and make a delicious tea. The fresh pulp can also be eaten but you may find that dried hips are more readily available to you. Only 1 Tbsp of the pulp contains more than the USDA adult recommended allowance of Vit. C. You can buy rose hips in bulk at most health food stores and it is inexpensive. You will be surprised at the good taste of tea. If available, you can also use the prepared tea bags as well. To prepare from loose hips, pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tbsp dried, crushed hips.


Spearmint leaves are a wonderful addition to your tea mixture. They soothe your stomach and add a bit of flavor to your tea mixture. Spearmint leaves and prepared tea bags are readily available at both health food stores and the bags at any grocery store. Try it iced if you are in a hot time of year.

Having a soothing cup of herbal tea is a wonderful way to get the nutritive qualities these herbs offer, give the pregnant woman a chance to stop and relax for a few minutes and is a great way to sit and contemplate the growing baby inside of you. Enjoy!!