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Herbs are considered natural remedies and can be bought over the counter. The impression is that because they are just herbs, they are safe. This is not always the case.

During pregnancy you have to be very careful. Some herbs can cause miscarriage, raise your blood pressure or affect your baby. My opinion is that you do not take herbal medicine during pregnancy. Ginger, however, is one I recommend. If you are tempted, ask your doctor first. Do not listen to advice at health food shops or herbalists. These herbs are not tested and no one can guarantee their safety in pregnancy.

Some herbs we know can cause problems during pregnancy. The others we know very little of their potential to harm.

Ginger is a herb used in cooking but it can help GERD. It can stimulate saliva production in the mouth. Saliva is a natural antacid. It works well in heartburn of pregnancy, helps relieve nausea and vomiting and it is a carminative (relieve gas). It has been used for centuries to control nausea and vomiting.

Ginger is available as a powder, juice, oil or in capsules. My recommendation is to use a small amount of fresh ginger mixed in your food. Avoid ginger supplements in pregnancy and make sure you know how much ginger you can safely take in a 24 hour time frame.

A review of six double blind controlled trials was published in 2005. The study involved 675 pregnant women with GERD. The study provided evidence that ginger is effective in relieving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Ginger also has no significant side effects or potential harm to the foetus.

If you are keen to avoid medication for GERD in pregnancy, use a small amount of fresh ginger in your food. It is safe and adds flavour to your food.

Dr. Phil Hariram.