Over-the-Counter Supplements

• Supplements that are readily available in grocery stores and mass merchandisers across the country may be an effective treatment for pregnant women with toxemia. Daily doses of a high-quality fish oil supplement, one that has been tested safe for heavy metal content, can help to lower blood pressure. Additionally, calcium and magnesium tablets can be effective in treating pregnancy toxemia. Before self-medicating, contact a health care professional or pharmacist to discuss safety concerns of over-the-counter supplements during pregnancy.
  
  

Chinese Herbs

• Traditional Chinese medicine allows for an individualized treatment plan for toxemia by combining various herbs depending on a woman's specific situation. Rhizoma alismatis and radix angelicae sinensis can increase coronary flow and decrease blood sugar, ramulus uncariae cum uncis lowers blood pressure, radix salviae miltiorrhizae promotes blood circulation and radix codonopsis pilosulae promotes production of bodily fluid and nourishes the blood. Proper herbal combinations and dosage amounts, in addition to possible risks and side effects that may occur, should be discussed with a qualified herbalist before purchase.
  
  

Lifestyle Changes

• In addition to herbal treatments, pregnant women with toxemia should stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water. They should also increase the amount of protein in their diet to 100 grams or more by eating beans and legumes, participate in moderate exercise and get extra rest to reduce stress and increase blood flow to the placenta. Lastly, pollutants, such as cigarette smoke, traffic pollution, strong chemicals, processed foods and refined sugars, should be avoided.