Harmless or Dangerous? We tell you which 10 plants you should stay away from when you are expecting a child.
Having a child is probably the greatest happiness on earth. But suddenly you are confronted with completely new challenges. What was commonplace before the pregnancy suddenly raises questions: Am I even allowed to do that or should I rather not do it? At least in terms of plants we can give you some information. We show you ten common garden plants that you should avoid during pregnancy.
NOTE: Many of the plants listed below are only harmful in high doses. Basically, side effects CAN occur, but do not HAVE to. If you are unsure whether the plant is safe to consume, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
As already mentioned, we don't want to make pregnant women feel insecure, but rather encourage them to eat lots of fresh vegetables and fruit. If in doubt, please always consult your doctor.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera (Aloe vera) is best known as an ingredient in numerous care products, but is also found as a potted plant in many homes. However, the plant is not suitable for pregnant women. When drunk as a juice or tincture, the plant can have a laxative effect, dissolve toxins or cause contractions, as it causes an increased accumulation of blood in the abdominal organs. However, the symptoms mentioned usually only occur if larger quantities are taken. External use, on the other hand, is more than unproblematic - in fact, aloe vera can even help against stretch marks.
Basil
Tomato, mozzarella and basil - a real treat, especially in summer. But what about pregnancy? In normal amounts, basil (Ocimum basilicum) is completely harmless and can also be eaten by pregnant women without any problems. The essential oils of basil, the onehave a labor-inducing effect are only found in small amounts in the leaves, so a normal portion has no effect. The use of basil oil, on the other hand, is viewed critically: the essential oils of the basil are much more concentrated in this, so it should not be taken during pregnancy to avoid premature labor.
Mugwort
Broomweed, lady's weed or wild wormwood - mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) has many names and is still often used as a spice plant for heavy meat dishes. Mugwort tea, in particular, used to be used to treat menstrual pain. If you are expecting a child, however, you should avoid mugwort: mugwort can have an abortifacient effect due to its menstrual-promoting properties. However, it is widely considered harmless in a dosage used for spices.
Comfrey
Comfrey (Sympthum officinale) has been known as a traditional medicinal plant since the Middle Ages. It has an anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and decongestant effect and is often used externally. However, comfrey has so-called pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which have a toxic, liver-damaging effect. Pregnant and breastfeeding women in particular should therefore refrain from eating and using comfrey, as children and fetuses are much more sensitive to the toxins.
Barberry
Delicious vitamin C bomb - the barberry (Berberis vulgaris) or also sour thorn is not only delicious as a jam, but also very he althy. Even if the shrub actually comes from Africa, the barberry is also widespread here, after all, the fruits not only taste good, the barberry also flowers beautifully. Nevertheless, women with a child under the heart should refrain from eating the red berries. Although berberine, which in high doses can induce preterm labor and stimulate bleeding, is primarily found in the twigs and leaves, traces of it can also be found in the fruit.
Pasque Flower
Pasque Flower or Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla vulgaris) is a pretty spring plant with large budsBlossoms. It used to be a well-known medicinal plant, but today pasque flowers are only used in homeopathy, for example to treat colds or rheumatism. However, the pasque flower has no place in the kitchen, as it has a poisonous effect when fresh. Pregnant women should also not use the pasqueflower: the plant promotes menstruation and can cause a miscarriage, especially in the first third of pregnancy.
Mistletoe
Whoever stands under a mistletoe has to kiss - at least that's what the custom demands. But mistletoe (Viscum) is more than just a pretty decoration. It is traditionally used to support the cardiovascular system and is still used today in cancer therapy. However, mistletoe only belongs in experienced hands, as it has a toxic effect. Pregnant women should also not use mistletoe under any circumstances: its active ingredients migrate into the placenta and can lead to developmental disorders in the child. In this article you will find six exciting questions and answers about mistletoe.
Feverfew
Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium), a plant that looks very similar to our chamomile, has almost been forgotten. Feverfew used to be a sought-after remedy for all sorts of women's ailments, from period cramps to menopause. However, the plant owes its name to its use during pregnancy: During childbirth, it promotes labor and helps expel the afterbirth. Nevertheless, pregnant women should not take the plant - especially in the first trimester, the effect of the plant that promotes menstrual bleeding can lead to miscarriage.
juniper
In hearty dishes or as a schnapps - common juniper (Juniperus communis) has long since found its place in our kitchens. The dark berries in particular can be used in many ways and are a real treat for the palate. However, pregnant women should not use too large amounts of the kitchen spice: juniper can have a stimulating effect on the uterus. Juniper should therefore not be used in concentrated oils or tea. There's nothing wrong with a bit of spice in the stew.
cinnamon
Cinnamon is a must, especially at Christmas time. The spice, which is obtained from the bark of various types of cinnamon tree, is simply delicious. But many warn against using it during pregnancy. The reason: cinnamon has an antispasmodic effect and can thus stimulate labour. However, the usual amounts of cinnamon in pastries or as a spice are completely unproblematic. Pregnant women should therefore only refrain from excessive consumption of cinnamon. Cinnamon capsules or cinnamon oil should also not be taken. But a single cinnamon star is absolutely no problem.
If you prefer not to take any risks when choosing plants for your garden, here is a list of non-toxic plants that are completely safe for children and pets.