Is 'Polyrhachis vicina roger - Chinese Black Ant' safe to take when pregnant?

Question

This is a chinese herbal medicine that I bought in Hong Kong. The black ant capsules help with 'increasing energy and balance metabolism and balance your chi'. Made from rare chinese black ant and 1 capsule is taken 2x daily. It gives me amazing energy and is a fantastic but very expensive herbal product but I am unsure if it is safe to take when pregnant, I have been taking since March (I am now 6wks pregnant). My obgyn is also unsure as is not listed in her medical books.

Does anyone know if this product is safe, i actually think it helped me fall pregnant

Answer 1

No.  Not safe.

Answer 2

The black ant has been consumed in China for over 3,000 years and there are no known contra-indications for the black ant. It is not a strong blood mover, and is mainly used to build energy and the immune system. However, I would not take supplement from China that have not been tested for heavy metals and pesticides while pregnant.