Influence of Lithospermum on pregnancy

Lithospermum has been widely used in clinic for a long time. It can lower the levels of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone in blood serum and inhibit ovulation, thus causing infertility. Due to its effect of lowering chorionic gonadotropin, restraining the development of corpus luteum graviditatis and interfering the growth of uterus and the supply of embryotrophy, Lithospermum has been confirmed to be effective in termination of pregnancy and herb abortion. Therefore Lithospermum can not be used in those who intend to conceive or do not need to terminate pregnancy. The authors suggest that the influence of Lithospermum on pregnancy should be studied objectively and should be emphasized in clinical teaching of traditional Chinese medicine to ensure the correct and reasonable application of Lithospermum.