Does Eggplant Help You Go Into Labor?

Some expectant mothers believe that eating eggplant will induce labor

More than 300 women have gone into labor approximately 48 hours after eating eggplant parmigiana from Scalini's restaurant in Georgia. This phenomenon has many people wondering if eggplant actually can help pregnant women go into labor.

Misconception

Although eggplant has not been proven to induce labor, the oregano and basil that is found in eggplant parmigiana are both capable of creating uterine contractions. Herbalists believe that it is the combination of these two culinary herbs, rather than the eggplant itself, that causes many women to go into labor after eating the dish.

Warning

It isn't exactly known to what degree the oregano and basil can stimulate contractions, therefore herbalists advise pregnant woman to stay away from essential oils and aromatherapy preparations using these two herbs. This is especially true in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.

Fun Fact

Scalini's restaurant shared their recipe for eggplant parmigiana with ABC News so that expectant mothers can try it themselves at home. ABC reports that the Italian restaurant guarantees that the eggplant parmigiana eaten in their restaurant will induce mom's labor within 48 hours or her next meal is on the house.

References

• Maternity Corner: Natural Labor Induction Methods

Resources

• Good Morning America: Labor-Inducing Eggplant Parmigiana