Does geranium (lao guan cao) induce labor?

Generally speaking, Geranium (Geraniaceae) does not have the effect of inducing labor. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Geranium is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Geranium in the family Geraniaceae. It has various medicinal properties, including clearing heat and detoxifying, promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis, relieving phlegm and cough, strengthening the spleen and stimulating the appetite, and astringing to stop bleeding. It is commonly used to treat ailments such as headache, febrile diseases, rash, dysentery, abdominal pain in children, eczema, pertussis, uremia, as well as rheumatic pain, numbness of the skin, and promoting blood circulation through the meridians.

Inducing labor is usually associated with childbirth, but there is no documented medicinal evidence indicating that geranium possesses such an effect. Moreover, pregnant women must be particularly cautious when using any medication, as certain drugs may have adverse effects on the fetus. Although geranium offers multiple medicinal benefits, it should be avoided during pregnancy to prevent uterine contractions that may lead to miscarriage or other adverse outcomes.

When approaching labor, pregnant women should follow medical advice and adopt scientifically sound and appropriate medical measures to ensure the health and safety of both mother and child. If interested in herbal remedies or other natural therapies, they should consult a doctor or qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner first, and then carefully choose suitable options based on individual circumstances. Safety should always be prioritized during pregnancy and delivery, avoiding the risks associated with unverified herbal usage.