Is Hawthorn Safe to Take While Trying to Get Pregnant?

by Brandee
(Nashville)

I have high blood pressure and refuse to go on meds, so to help bring it down, I have been losing weight, exercising and taking the heart tonic herb hawthorn. My husband and I would like to start trying to get pregnant this summer. should I stop taking the herb then?

Answer:

Hi Brandee,

It sounds to me like you're doing well with your preparations for trying to conceive!

Susan Weed, author of the Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, reports in the book that Hawthorn berries are "a strong and safe vasodilator" (emphasis mine).

She reports that it's a good remedy for hypertension and recommends a cold infusion.

Based on her information I would say that it's safe during pregnancy, but it may be a good idea to consult with a local midwife to see if she has any experience caring for a client with hypertension.

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Is Hawthorn Safe to Take While Trying to Get Pregnant?

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Apr 22, 2010
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High BP in pregnancy
by: Annie

FYI, Hawthorne is also used to lower cholesterol and promote healthy digestion - it's a fantastic and safe herb. If you were my patient, though (I'm a practitioner of Chinese Medicine), I would caution you about getting pregnant with high blood pressure. It sounds like you're making great strides incorporating exercise and dietary changes into your lifestyle. However, the natural physiological changes that occur with pregnancy can increase blood pressure, even without it being high to begin with. I would encourage you to keep on the path toward wellness, and remain patient until your blood pressure is at a safe level. The healthier you are before becoming pregnant, the more enjoyable your pregnancy and labor will be!

Apr 24, 2010
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thank you!
by: brandee

thank you for the advice! i am slowly losing weight and i track my bp every month, it is going down, every pound i lose it drops a few points. thanks again for the kind words, encouragement and advice! brandee

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