Natural abortion methods, particularly herbal abortifacients, have become trending topics on social media and online blogs. It’s very important that patients understand how these herbs work, and that they pose serious safety concerns.
Pennyroyal is one of the most commonly discussed herbs. There are reports of it being used historically to cause abortion. Explain to patients that pennyroyal essential oil is unsafe for anyone to use, pregnant or not. It’s been linked with serious liver and kidney damage as well as seizures, coma, and death. And while there is evidence that taking it by mouth can cause the uterus to contract and induce abortion, the dose needed to do this could be lethal to the parent.
Blue cohosh is also very concerning. Similar to pennyroyal, it’s likely unsafe for anyone to consume. But consuming blue cohosh while pregnant is extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening. Some midwives actually still use it to induce labor; however, this practice is extremely dangerous, and can lead to life-threatening toxicity in both the infant and parent.
Other herbs, including black cohosh, cinnamon, mugwort, and more, are also being discussed online. Explain that attempting to use any of these to induce an abortion isn’t safe – every body reacts differently, and there is no way to ensure safety. Additionally, emphasize that just because these herbs are highlighted as “natural” doesn’t mean they can’t cause harm – they contain chemicals that act just like drugs and can cause severe, irreversible damage, including death.
The information in this brief report is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions. Copyright © 2024 NatMed. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited. NatMed is the leading provider of high-quality, evidence-based, clinically-relevant information on natural medicine, dietary supplements, herbs, vitamins, minerals, functional foods, diets, complementary practices, CAM modalities, exercises and medical conditions. Monograph sections include interactions with herbs, drugs, foods and labs, contraindications, depletions, dosing, toxicology, adverse effects, pregnancy and lactation data, synonyms, safety and effectiveness.
