The Safety and Efficacy of Ginger and Peppermint for Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnant Women

Abstract

Background: Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP), also known as “morning sickness”, occurs in 70-80% of pregnancies. Some women seek relief through alternative treatments like ginger and peppermint. Easy accessibility of herbs to expectant mothers due to limited regulation raises concerns, because effects and potential interactions with prescribed medications are not always fully considered and may result in unknown effects during pregnancy or serious complications for the fetus. Objectives: To review and evaluate the safety and efficacy of ginger (Zingiber officinale) and peppermint (Mentha × piperita) for relieving nausea and vomiting symptoms in pregnant women. Methods: The review sourced articles from PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on ginger or peppermint's safety and efficacy in pregnant women over the past 10 years. Keywords included 'Safety,' 'Efficacy,' 'Ginger,' 'Peppermint,' and 'Pregnancy.' Results: This analysis included a total of six papers. Studies indicate that orally administered ginger is significantly more effective than placebo in reducing the frequency of nausea and vomiting episodes and intensity of symptoms during pregnancy. Ginger can have adverse effects for women, such as heartburn, gastric pain and drowsiness. Ginger also interacts with drugs, such as antiplatelets and anticoagulants. There does not appear to be an increased likelihood of congenital malformations, stillbirth, preterm birth, low birth weight, or low Apgar score with the use of ginger during pregnancy. Peppermint oil aromatherapy reduces nausea, although the effect is not significantly greater than that of a placebo. Peppermint has emmenagogue effects on the uterus. However, the dose range for these effects in the human uterus is unknown. It reduces the effectiveness of antacid drugs. Scientific evidence for the safety of peppermint during pregnancy has not been found. Discussion & Conclusion: Ginger has been shown to be effective in relieving nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, but caution is advised due to safety concerns such as possible side effects and drug interactions. Peppermint may provide relief. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness and safety during pregnancy. For this reason, pregnant women should consult a health professional before considering these products.