Safe Herbs for Morning Sickness During Pregnancy: Natural Relief for Nausea

Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey, but it often comes with its own set of challenges — and morning sickness is one of the most common. For many expecting mothers, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can make daily life difficult, especially in the first trimester. If you’re looking for more ways to cope naturally, check out our 11 Helpful Tips to Manage Morning Sickness.

While medical treatment may be necessary in severe cases, many women turn to natural remedies for gentle relief. Among these, herbs for morning sickness during pregnancy have been traditionally used for centuries to ease nausea and promote well-being.

However, not all herbs are safe during pregnancy. It’s essential to understand which ones are beneficial and which should be avoided. This guide explores commonly recommended herbs that may help calm morning sickness — along with safety tips and usage suggestions.

What Causes Morning Sickness During Pregnancy?

Morning sickness typically appears between the 6th and 12th week of pregnancy and is believed to be caused by a mix of hormonal changes, particularly the rise in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen.

Other factors may include:

• Sensitivity to certain smells or foods
• Low blood sugar levels
• Fatigue
• Stress or anxiety

Though it’s called “morning” sickness, nausea can occur at any time of the day. Fortunately, mild to moderate cases can often be managed with lifestyle adjustments, diet, and safe natural remedies such as specific herbs.

Herbs for Morning Sickness During Pregnancy: What You Should Know

Certain herbs have been used traditionally to reduce nausea, soothe the stomach, and support overall digestion during pregnancy. However, because every pregnancy is unique, always consult your healthcare provider or midwife before trying any herbal remedy.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most commonly recommended herbs that are considered gentle and safe when used correctly.

1. Ginger: The Gold Standard for Nausea Relief

Ginger is perhaps the most popular and well-studied herb for morning sickness. Research shows it can significantly reduce nausea and vomiting during early pregnancy without harmful side effects.

Benefits:

• Soothes the stomach lining
• Helps reduce nausea frequency and intensity
• Improves digestion

How to Use:

• Sip on ginger tea made from fresh ginger slices
• Chew ginger candies or drink caffeine-free ginger ale
• Add grated ginger to soups, smoothies, or stir-fries

Safety Tip:

Limit intake to 1–2 grams per day of dried ginger (or equivalent) unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

2. Peppermint: Refreshing and Calming

Peppermint is another trusted remedy for nausea. Its menthol aroma and mild antispasmodic properties help relax stomach muscles and promote easier digestion.

Benefits:

• Calms nausea and motion sickness
• Reduces bloating and gas
• Promotes relaxation

How to Use:

• Drink peppermint tea made from dried leaves
• Suck on peppermint candies
• Inhale peppermint essential oil (a few drops on a tissue or diffuser)

Safety Tip:

Avoid consuming excessive peppermint tea if you experience acid reflux, as it may worsen symptoms in some women.

3. Chamomile: Gentle Comfort for the Stomach

Chamomile has been used for generations to calm the body and ease digestive discomfort. Its soothing qualities can help reduce nausea and promote relaxation during pregnancy.

Benefits:

• Calms the stomach and supports digestion
• Promotes better sleep and reduces stress
• Mildly anti-inflammatory

How to Use:

• Drink a small cup of chamomile tea once or twice daily
• Use organic, caffeine-free chamomile

Safety Tip:

Avoid overconsumption — limit to one or two cups per day. Always ensure the tea is made from pure chamomile flowers, not mixed herbal blends.

4. Lemon Balm: Uplifting and Soothing

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is known for its gentle sedative and digestive effects. It helps reduce tension, anxiety, and nausea — making it a great herbal ally during pregnancy.

Benefits:

• Eases nausea and upset stomach
• Reduces anxiety and promotes calmness
• Supports digestion

How to Use:

• Brew lemon balm tea with hot water and fresh or dried leaves
• Combine with ginger or chamomile for added benefit

Safety Tip:

Use in moderation — 1–2 cups daily is generally considered safe.

5. Raspberry Leaf: For Later Pregnancy Support

While red raspberry leaf is best known for its uterine-toning properties in the later stages of pregnancy, some women use it gently during early pregnancy to support overall wellness.

Benefits:

• Strengthens and tones the uterus
• Provides vitamins and minerals (especially iron and magnesium)
• May ease mild nausea

How to Use:

• Drink raspberry leaf tea (1 cup daily in early pregnancy, increasing later under medical guidance)

Safety Tip:

Always consult your healthcare provider before using raspberry leaf tea in the first trimester.

6. Fennel: Digestive Support and Nausea Relief

Fennel seeds have been traditionally used to calm the digestive system and ease bloating and nausea.

Benefits:

• Reduces gas, bloating, and stomach cramps
• Helps relieve mild nausea
• Supports healthy digestion

How to Use:

• Drink fennel tea by steeping crushed seeds in hot water
• Chew a few fennel seeds after meals for natural relief

Safety Tip:

Avoid overuse and always choose culinary-grade fennel. Speak with your healthcare provider if you have a history of hormone-sensitive conditions.

7. Coriander: Gentle on the Digestive System

Coriander seeds have mild anti-nausea and digestive benefits. They are gentle and can be incorporated into your meals or brewed as tea.

Benefits:

• Eases stomach discomfort and bloating
• Supports digestion
• Has a mild, refreshing taste

How to Use:

• Add ground coriander to soups or curries
• Make coriander tea by steeping crushed seeds in hot water

⚠ Important Safety Considerations for Herbal Use in Pregnancy

While natural remedies can be helpful, not all herbs are safe during pregnancy. Always keep the following in mind:

1. Consult your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy.
2. Start with small amounts to see how your body reacts.
3. Avoid herbs with strong hormonal or uterine effects, such as pennyroyal, black cohosh, or dong quai.
4. Choose organic and caffeine-free herbal teas.
5. Focus on hydration and balanced nutrition, as dehydration can worsen nausea.

Additional Tips for Managing Morning Sickness Naturally

Alongside herbs, simple daily habits can help you feel better:

• Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day
• Avoid spicy, greasy, or overly sweet foods
• Keep crackers or light snacks by your bedside
• Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, or electrolyte drinks
• Get plenty of rest and fresh air

For more proven ways to ease nausea and feel better throughout your pregnancy, don’t miss our detailed post: 11 Helpful Tips to Manage Morning Sickness and Safe Exercises During Pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Using safe herbs for morning sickness during pregnancy can provide natural comfort and gentle relief from nausea. Ginger, peppermint, chamomile, lemon balm, and fennel are among the most trusted options when used in moderation.

Remember, every pregnancy is different — what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult your healthcare provider before adding any new herbal remedy to your routine. With the right care, balance, and support, you can navigate morning sickness naturally and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy journey.

By Erika Barabás