Hyssop & Pregnancy

Hyssop should not be taken during pregnancy.

Hyssop may be classified as a member of the mint family and has been used as an herbal medicine for centuries. However, while hyssop may have a variety of health benefits and medicinal uses, women should avoid using it during their pregnancy because of the possible associated risks.

History

Hyssop is an essential oil derived from plants that grow commonly along roadsides in the United States and Canada, though it may also be grown as a garden herb, according to Drugs.com. The tops of the hyssop plant may be steeped in water and consumed as a tea, the leaves may be added to soups or salads, or hyssop oil may be extracted directly from the plant.

Common Uses

Hyssop may be used as a flavoring, fragrance, insect repellent, insecticide and cough and cold treatment. It is also used in herbal medicine as a remedy for asthma, urinary tract inflammation, gas, colic, digestive problems, poor circulation and appetite stimulation. An extract of the leaves may also be used as a topical medication to treat wounds or bruises. Hyssop has natural sedative effects and may also be used to reduce fever.

Safety

Hyssop is classified by the FDA as a plant that is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), though there have been three animal studies that may link hyssop with convulsive reactions, according to Drugs.com. In the studies, commercial preparation of hyssop essential oils produced convulsions in rats given 0.13 g/kg and resulted in death when given 1.25 g/kg.

Pregnancy

Women who use hyssop during their pregnancy may experience adverse effects including spontaneous abortion, according to Drugs.com. Hyssop is an emmenagogue, or an herb that may stimulate blood flow to the pelvic area and uterus, which can cause the uterus to contract to initiate menstruation among pregnant women.

Warning

Women who are pregnant should not take hyssop because of the potential side effects. Pregnant women who have epilepsy or a history of seizures may be at increased risk for seizures while taking hyssop. Contact a health care provider immediately if menstrual-type cramping, severe contractions or vaginal bleeding are noticed while taking hyssop.

References

• Drugs.com: Hyssop
• Childbirth Solutions, Inc.: Wise Use of Herbs and Vitamins During Pregnancy
• Health Care: Hyssop--Uses and Benefits