Research shows that being well hydrated increases efficiency of your uterus: in other words, promotes faster and easy labor!
Steep the following herbs in 500mL boiled water:
Strain and add 500mL of water plus:
Stir these ingredients together and freeze in an ice-cube tray, ready for when you are in labour!
Raspberry leaf and Nettle are great sources of calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamins A, C, E & D. They are well known for promoting optimal uterine function and preventing hemorrhage. Mint is a great energizer as well as a good source of potassium (and tasty too). Nettle and Alfalfa both increase the available vitamin K and hemoglobin in the blood: good for mom and baby!
Maple syrup is full of minerals and gives natural energy as well as taste. The salt, calcium and magnesium, which are essential in effective muscle contraction, create a good electrolyte balance.
Peri bottle
6 Maxi pads (use the overnight size) Lavender essential oil OR steeped perineal herbs (strained) Cookie sheet Large ziploc or plastic bag |
While the thought of anything frozen on your tender parts may not be appealing now, if you use these for the first 2-3 days after the birth, you will decrease swelling and speed healing. |
|
Shepherd’s purse
Uva ursi Lavender Thyme Comfrey |
Castor oil
4×4 gauze |
Various herbalists, including Finlandia and Gaia Gardens Herbal Pharmacy, sell a premixed Perineal Wash, which can be substituted for this combination of herbs, if you like. | ||
|
4 parts Fennel seed
2 parts Nettle 2 parts Raspberry leaf 1 part Blessed Thistle |
|
Blessed Thistle is also known as Mother’s Milk Thistle. It is widely used for enhancing milk flow as well as dealing with postpartum depression. Eliminate the Blessed Thistle if you are engorged or have issues with overabundance of milk. Fennel, which is the active ingredient in Gripe Water, will come through in your breastmilk to help baby’s digestion stay calm. Nettle will help build your iron back up, while Raspberry Leaf helps your uterus shrink quickly and calm any afterpains. |