Create an harmonious environment in which to massage your baby.
Preconception
Herbs have an excellent reputation for enhancing fertility. More than five hundred plants contain plant hormones called phytoesterols that mimic our own hormones, including false unicorn root that stimulates the ovaries. Other fertility herbs include natural yam, squaw vine as well as blue and black cohosh.
Pregnancy & Labour
Herbal medicine can help morning sickness, anaemia, insomnia, back pain, anxiety, indigestion, labour pains, constipation and haemorrhoids, lactation, post partum recovery and cystitis
Raspberry Leaf
Raspberry leaf is a reproductive tonic specific to pregnancy and childbirth. It is available as a tea and also in capsule form. It aids in controlling bleeding, is high in calcium and magnesium, stimulates the release of oxytocin and strengthens and calms the uterine muscles in preparation for labour.
Nettle
Nettle is a perfect pregnancy tonic supporting the uterus, kidneys and urinary tract. It strengthens the blood vessels and circulatory system, helps in diabetes, digestion, fluid retention, incontinence, anaemia, hypertension, kidney stones, hair loss, leg cramps and painful childbirth.
Squaw Vine
Squaw Vine tones the uterus, urinary tract and bowels. It is also used to prevent bleeding, enhance labour and promote lactation.
False Unicorn Root
False Unicorn Root tones the uterus, aids delivery and balances hormones.
Wild Yam
Wild Yam regulates hormones, is anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic, reducing cramping and toning the liver.
Dong Quai
Dong Quai is recommended for use during the last six weeks of pregnancy. It is noted in traditional Chinese medicine for its use in preparation for labour. It is thought to encourage blood flow to the uterus. It also helps anaemia.
Peony
Peony is known as a foetal calmer and is used with Dong Quai to regulate hormones and soothe the uterine muscles.
Withania
Withania is a traditional pregnancy tonic helpful to relieve stress, promote sleep and boost energy.
St Mary’s Thistle
St Mary’s Thistle helps digestion and cleanses the liver.
Labour Formula
You or your herbalist may prepare the following formula for use after the 34th week of pregnancy:
Red Raspberry Leaf 20 ml
Nettle 20 ml
Squaw Vine 30 ml
False Unicorn Root 20 ml
Withania 50 ml
St Mary’s Thistle 30 ml
200ml
Directions
During the 34th week, take 2ml daily, the 35th week take 2 ml twice a day, the 36th week take 2 ml three times daily, the 37th week take 5 ml twice daily, the 38th week take 5ml three times daily, the 40th week take 8 ml three times daily. If the practice contractions are too strong, stop and start from the beginning with 2ml daily again.
Post Natal
There are many herbs suitable for post partum recovery and lactation.
Scarring/wounds
Apply calendula compresses and take calendula tincture.
Milk Production
Teas from St Mary’s Thistle, dill, fennel, cumin and marshmallow.
Post natal baby blues/depression
St Johns Wort, Kava, Pulsatilla, Motherwort, Damiana, Liquorice, Siberian and Korean Ginseng.