Johar Joshanda in Pregnancy: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects

Johar Joshanda is a traditional South Asian herbal tea mixture widely used to alleviate cough and cold symptoms and relieve mild stomach problems. 

Several pregnant women have found Johar Joshanda to be an effective way to calm their symptoms. 

However, as many commercial formulations include herbs that could potentially harm a developing fetus, it is always best to proceed with caution. 

You check the ingredient list carefully, avoid particular components, and discuss with a healthcare professional any plans to use this product during pregnancy.

Key Takeaways:

• Always read the ingredient list of Johar Joshanda. Some formulations contain herbs, including licorice, Ephedra, or poppy, which pose potential risks when used during pregnancy.

• Do not use Ephedra and limit the use of any licorice products, as there are documented risks associated with them, including high blood pressure, preterm delivery, or impact on pregnancy.

• Safety data during pregnancy is limited, so consult your healthcare provider before using any polyherbal remedy, including Johar Joshand, if you are experiencing a persistent cough or cold.

Why Do Some Mothers Use Johar Joshanda in Pregnancy?

• Improvement of colds and coughs: Vasaka and hyssop have been used for many years to help with coughs and thinning mucus. These ingredients may help reduce the discomfort associated with cough and shortness of breath.

• Digestive benefits: Some women report relief from bloating, discomfort, and nausea when using fennel and peppermint.

• Relaxation, warmth, and hydration: Many women report the warmth from herbal teas, particularly when they feel sick. Using herbal teas can provide them with increased comfort and help them relax more comfortably and sleep better.

It is important to note that most of the benefits of using Johar Joshanda (a combination of many different herbs) are based on both traditional uses as well as product information provided by manufacturers. 

However, the majority of studies concerning the use of herbal medicines in pregnancy are not considered high-quality clinical research. 

Safety Concerns & Side Effects with Pregnancy:

Here is the important, research-backed information for pregnant women that you should be aware of regarding safety. 

1. Liquorice (Glycyrrhizin) – Documented Risks with Pregnancy

Multiple Studies have linked high levels of glycyrrhizin (liquorice) with a shortened gestation length and increased risk of preterm birth and later neurodevelopmental problems in children during pregnancy. 

Expert organizations suggest that you use caution or limit glycyrrhizin during pregnancy. If a Johar Joshanda product contains glycerin or liquorice extract, then it is recommended either moderation or total avoidance.

2. Ephedra / Ephedrine Containing Herbs – Unsafe

Ephedra is a stimulant that has been linked to serious cardiovascular events; many strong dietary supplements have been prohibited from using these ingredients. Ephedra is an unsafe ingredient for pregnant women and should not be used.

3. Poppy / Khash-Khash / Opium-like materials

Poppy seeds are generally not considered to be a high-risk food. However, concentrated poppy seed extract or poppy seed tea can contain codeine and morphine. 

And therefore have the possibility of having a serious impact, such as withdrawal and long-term growth issues in pregnancy. 

Products with the “khash-khash” or opium derivatives should not be used while pregnant, and strict oversight by a medical professional is necessary.

4. Vasaka (Adhatoda)

The lack of reliable human safety information, as well as the presence of longstanding traditional concerns, prevents definitive conclusions.

5. Caffeine and Other Additives

Some commercial sachet formulations come in a variety of tea flavors with caffeine and are also flavored or preserved with sodium benzoate, aspartame, etc. 

Most guidelines recommend monitoring total daily caffeine intake for pregnant women to keep it below 200 mg/day. Therefore, it is advisable to read the warning labels on all commercially prepared sachets containing caffeine or artificial sweetening agents. 

Clinical and Medical Experts Perspectives

• Many manufacturers or distributors of Joshanda products advise that pregnant women and nursing mothers should check with their healthcare provider or a gynecologist online before using the products.

• Medical experts state that the use of ephedra during pregnancy is considered dangerous and that licorice should be limited due to its association with preterm birth or neurodevelopmental effects in children through epidemiological studies.

Most of the clinical recommendations are composed of cautions regarding the use of polyherbal remedies (herbs that contain multiple substances).

Conclusion:

Joshanda is a remedy for colds and is appreciated for its warmth and herbal properties in women’s homes. However, while pregnant, caution is suggested because many commercially produced types of joshanda may contain substances (licorice, ephedra, opium ) that have documented or probable risks related to pregnancy.

FAQs About Johar Joshanda in Pregnancy