Is Eating Neem During Pregnancy Safe?

By: Ambili S Kartha

Neem is known all over the world for its excellent medicinal properties. It is even widely used for the preparation of different medicines. It is believed that the leaves of this tree are ideal for any type of skin ailments. Chewing neem leaves raw is known to build the body’s immune system, as well. The neem oil, however, can be used in the preparation of cosmetics, different medicines, and even pesticides made organically.

Even its twigs are supposedly good, the flowers, barks, and roots are also used in one way or the other. All the parts of the neem plant have amazing healing benefits.  It is suitable for all types of skin ailments. Even today, people scatter fresh leaves near the patients suffering from flu, fever, or any other disease as they believe these leaves can fight off the germs. People used to tie a bunch of leaves on the door as they believe that the air passing gets purified and even helps to inhibit the spreading of disease.

Neem has a special place in the Ayurvedic world and significantly used where traditional medicines are preferred. Neem helps in treating ulcers as well as in the purification of blood, flushing the toxins from the body, etc. Yet usage of neem during the pregnancy phase is something one must be cautious about. Let us study the benefits which one can get from its use during pregnancy, whether its usage leads to miscarriage, words of caution, and few frequently asked questions.

Are There Any Benefits and Uses of Neem During Pregnancy?

Even though Neem is loaded with a plethora of benefits, yet its consumption during pregnancy is not a good option, though it can be used externally. This herb can do wonders if not swallowed or consumed at this time, but it can be applied to the skin as it has ideal healing properties. Given below are some of the ways in which a pregnant woman can take advantage of using it on the body, and they are:

  • A paste made from neem leaves or any creams which have a base of neem works wonders if applied on the belly as it lessens the appearance of stretch marks.
  • Neem juice works wonder to decrease the pain in the vagina, and using it for massaging lessens the labor pain.
  • Taking a neem bath is considered good as it helps to get rid of germs and is good for the skin.
  • It is seen that mosquito bites are prevalent, especially during pregnancy, and taking a neem bath works as a disinfectant against any bits.
  • Neem bath even helps to reduce a very common rash that happens during pregnancy and is then seen extending to legs, arms, etc. especially in the last trimester.
  • Having a neem oil massage is incredibly soothing and helps to get rid of itchiness that is the result of stretching of the skin.
  • Neem based products help even to fight acne and other skin ailments during pregnancy.

Does Neem Cause A Miscarriage?

As per Ayurveda, women should abstain from the consumption of neem through the initial five months as it tends to produce more heat in the body, which is not good for the fetus. Too much heat generation can even result in forcing out the baby, ultimately resulting in a miscarriage.

Yet there is nothing definite that can be said about the same. The research in this field has been done on animals and the apes, which are closely in relation to human beings, where high dosage of neem seeds resulted in miscarriages.

Having a little quantity of neem by mistake may cause no significant harm. However, never do this knowingly as it could prove dangerous for the mother and the baby. The exact amount that could pose a danger is still unknown. Therefore, it is best to avoid ingesting neem during pregnancy to be safe.

Cautionary Tips

Neem comprises many chemicals that can regulate blood sugar, helps in healing of ulcers, avoid plaque, and even get rid of bacteria, treating eye ailments, urinary issues, hemorrhoids, wounds, etc. Even though it is loaded with so many benefits, yet there are few tips for caution that one should be careful about and they are:

  • The neem extracts, whether pure or diluted, should never be taken in Neem, should not be used in great amounts.
  • Neem is certainly good for health, but its regular usage could create problems while conceiving.
  • Having a smaller quantity of Neem might not be dangerous, yet its best to avoid it.
  • -One can use neem-based cosmetics and other skincare products.
  • Never use any strong neem extracts in the inner parts of the vagina as it can be harmful to the fetus.

FAQ

The neem leaf has a magical influence on all sorts of skin ailments as it is antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal as well. This plant is also known for its anti-viral as well as bacterial characteristics. Even though it has immense benefits, but its ingestion should be totally avoided during pregnancy. Let us have a look at some of the FAQ’s, and they are:

  • Can I Drink Neem Juice During Pregnancy? No, drinking neem juice should be avoided during pregnancy as it generates too much body heat leading to miscarriage.
  • Can I Take A Neem Bath During Pregnancy? Yes, pregnant women should take a bath in neem water. Neem bath is good for skin rashes. It also helps to fight germs and bacteria.
  • Can I Use Neem Oil During Pregnancy? No, there are no pieces of evidence that neem oil is safe during pregnancy. Therefore it is preferable to refrain from neem oil during pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding the baby. It should never be ingested as they have a toxic effect.

Thus, as far as the neem is not ingested in greater quantities during pregnancy, it is completely safe for applying it externally. You can use it in the form of paste, scrub, taking a neem bath, etc. Neem is known to alleviate many skin issues. However, it is not advisable to be consumed as it generates excess heat leading to miscarriage.  Yet, for some reason, if you feel like ingesting it, it is best to find out the quantity that is safe to be taken.




Source: https://www.beingtheparent.com/is-eating-neem-during-pregnancy-safe/

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