Holy Basil and Pregnancy
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Jessica
Posted on: June 14, 2006

I understand that you are not to take Holy Basil if you are pregnant, nursing or considering becoming pregnant. I am considering becoming pregnant and wondering what the risks are for taking it? Is there a safe period of time, or is it something that stays in your system for months and can harm the baby? I see all over the internet warnings about not taking during pregnancy or if you are considering becoming pregnant - but what is the time limit? that is, if I take it this month and two months from now become pregnant is there some danger to the baby?

The reason for avoiding holy basil in pregnancy is its effect on hormones. If you want to become pregnant, it is best to avoid taking therapeutic doses of herbs that affect hormones. Holy basil does not remain in your system. Taken occasionally in cooking, holy basil will not affect hormones. The warning is only applicable for taking therapeutic doses. If you have been taking holy basil and become pregnant, there is not likely to be any harm to your baby. If you are thinking of becoming pregnant, follow a healthy diet, avoiding hormone depressants and hormone stimulants for a month.

For information on other herbs to avoid during pregnancy, please see our website www.richters.com. The link http://richters.com/show.cgi?page=./QandA/Medicinal/19990808-1.html lists herbs to avoid in pregnancy.

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