Herbs During Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum
By Adrian E. Feldhusen CPM, NHCM

Herbs in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of wonder, amazement, and personal growth. It is also a time of heightened physical and emotional health. Many wonder about the use of herbs but do not know how to gather information on their many, many uses. I hope to show you the wonderful way that herbs can enhance your health, your life, and your pregnancy. Herbs are generally a safe alternative to prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Some herbs, however, can be harmful in pregnancy and are contraindicated. And my most favorite are the nourishing herbs, used to enhance vibrancy, well-being, and inner health. Hopefully using herbs during your pregnancy and birth will create the foundation for their use afterwards and within your new family.

Herbs are everywhere in our lives. They are the plants beneath our feet, the food that we eat sometimes, and the base of many medicines that we have available to us. It is one more way that the Earth has provided for us all, if we are just open to its healing powers.

Herbs are used by so many different cultures and practices, that it is more of a divine nature than a science. Each different herbalist uses them in a way that has suited them or brought about the desired results for them before. In this way, it is an art. There are many different ways of preparing herbs, and the results of different preparations yield different strengths and types of medicines. I think it is important to research widely the use of a particular herb before using it, and then record your own experiences with it for later use. In this way, we can participate actively in the healing process, and continue to learn about their different benefits.

One important thing to remember about herbs is that you must have faith in their powers, and be patient with their results. They work by nourishing particular parts of the body, which can be magnified by a clean, healthy diet, lots of rest, and elimination of tension. In this way, the herbs have the best chance to strengthen and heal the body.

Nourishing Herbs- For Good Health!

Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus strigosus, Rubus idaeus) is my all time favorite herb for pregnancy. It is best used as a tea or an infusion. It acts as a uterine toner, a fertility increaser, miscarriage and hemorrhage preventer, eases morning sickness, reduces pain during labor and after birth, and speeds recovery in the postpartum period. It also assists in the production of breast milk.

It is a member of the rose family, growing from a perennial root that sends up erect spiny shoots called canes. The leaves are a bit hairy with irregular, serrated leaf edges; they are distinctly green on the upper side and frosty white underneath. The best time to harvest the leaves is in mid-spring, before the plants set flowers and bear fruit.

The leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamins B, C, and E. They contain an alkaloid known as fragerine, which relaxes and strengthens the uterus and tones the pelvic muscles. Because raspberry leaf provides dual qualities as mild stimulant and gentle relaxant, it has a regulating effect on the uterus. Raspberry remains one of the safest and most effective herbs for use in the entire course of pregnancy.

The recommended use is one cup three times daily in the first trimester, one to two cups three times daily in the second trimester, and two to three cups three times daily in the last trimester. Some people may be sensitive to the herbs uterine toning effects in early pregnancy, so pay close attention to your own body signs and either discontinue use until later in the pregnancy or drink less if it is bothering you.

Red Raspberry leaf can be brewed as a tea or an infusion. It can be easily found in bulk quantity at any health food store, or in convenient tea bags as well. For tea, use one teaspoon of dried herb to one cup of boiling water. Allow to steep in cup for up to twenty minutes. You can add other herbs to a pot and brew, add mint, honey, milk, lemon, or even a little sugar if that is your fancy. Or make an infusion of one ounce of dried leaves (two handfuls cut-up) in a quart canning jar. Fill the jar to the top with boiling water, put the lid on, and let steep for four hours at room temperature. This is much stronger in taste. Either way, brew up a batch in the morning and put it in the refrigerator for the day and drink as a refreshment whenever you are thirsty. Add some Nettles if you so desire!

Nettles (Urtica dioica) is one of the finest nourishing tonics known. It is reputed to have more chlorophyll than any other herb. The list of vitamins and minerals in this herb is extensive, including nearly every one known to be necessary for human health and growth. Vitamins A, C, D, and K, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, iron, and sulphur are particularly abundant in Nettles.

The benefits include aiding the kidneys to cleanse themselves and function properly, increasing fertility in both men and women, wonderful nourishment, easing leg cramps and muscle spasms, helping with pain during and after birth, preventing hemorrhage after birth, reducing hemorrhoids, and increasing the richness of the breast milk.

Nettles should be made as a tea or tonic in the same way as Red Raspberry Leaf, and can be added to it to make an extremely nourishing daily drink.

Some Common Discomforts of Pregnancy

Morning Sickness: This commonly plagues women in the first trimester of pregnancy. While it can occur any time of day, or all day, there are many simple remedies that can be sought to ease its grasp on your life. Some may work better than others, so try then one at a time and find what works best for you.

There is a strong connection to morning sickness and low blood sugar. Eating small, bland meals often will help by maintaining your blood sugar levels. Also try eating protein-rich snacks before going to sleep. Walking daily aids the body to rid itself of the chemical by-products of increased hormonal activity in pregnancy, which can contribute to the nausea.

The most commonly known herb for morning sickness is Ginger Root, taken as a tea anytime that the nausea occurs. Make it as a tea from fresh root, or dried with 1 teaspoon of the dried root to one cup of hot water. Sip in tablespoon doses if the nausea is strong, beginning at the onset of symptoms. If the tea is too strong to drink, you can take it in powdered capsule form of up to 25 capsules per day.

Other herbs known to help nausea include Red Raspberry Leaf, Wild Yam Root, and Peppermint or Spearmint Leaf infusion or tea, and Anise or Fennel Seed tea or chew either of these seeds during the day. Wild Yam Root is slower to work but more effective and far safer than Bendectin, the allopathic medicine. Take sips of the infusion throughout the day. Or use one dropperful of the tincture in a glass of water or mint tea once or twice a day.

Other things that may help nausea is taking a B complex vitamin daily in addition to your regular regime. B6 in particular has been known to curve the most severe cases of morning sickness. 50 milligrams can be taken every 4 hours, along with 400 mg of Magnesium each morning. In extreme cases, injectible vitamin B6 can be used. L-Methionine, 1,000 mg daily can also be effective in preventing nausea.

Miscarriage or Threatened Miscarriage: While the rate of miscarriage is estimated to be approximately 20% of all pregnancies, it does not make it any easier on someone to have one. There are many different reasons for a miscarriage, and herbs can only help some of them. If a miscarriage can be prevented, these herbs will help. If the miscarriage is inevitable, looking for safe, natural alternatives to surgical intervention can be sought and used. Please make sure that you have good care with a care provider during this physically and emotionally stressful time!

Black Haw Root Bark (Viburnum prunifolium) is regarded as an especially effective miscarriage preventative. Black Haw sedates the uterus and can stop contractions and pain; its astringent, antispasmodic and tonic actions are best extracted in water. Begin drinking one or two cups of tea or a half cup of the infusion daily as soon as you are pregnant and have a history of miscarriage. It can be used throughout the entire pregnancy.

False Unicorn root (Chamaelirium luteum) is strongly recommended for women who have experienced repeated miscarriages. It may be of help even with a weak cervix, as it is a powerful tonic. Use 3 drops of the tincture 4-5 times daily, beginning a month before conception and continuing for the first trimester.

Wild Yam root (Dioscorea villosa) is the source material for hormonal birth control pills. It contains glycosides from which the body can manufacture the hormones progesterone and cortisone, which are needed to maintain a pregnancy. The infusion is the strongest preparation; take 2-4 ounces every half hour for threatened miscarriage. The tincture is less effective and may cause nausea or vomiting; use 10 drops every half hour as needed. Results should be evident by the second dose.

Threatened Miscarriage Brew: Put the 1 tablespoon dried Black Haw root bark or Cramp Bark and 3 tablespoons dried Raspberry leaves in a quart jar and fill to the top with boiling water. Steep until cool enough to drink. Add 10 drops Wild Yam and False Unicorn root tincture to one cupful of the tea and drink. If contractions continue for more than thirty minutes, add 60 drops of Lobelia tincture to a second cup of tea. Drink a cup of tea every 3 hours, adding tinctures as needed, until miscarriage no longer threatens.

Varicose Veins and Hemorrhoids: Varicosities are veins whose walls have become prolapsed and dilated and therefore present in this twisted appearance rather than being smooth, straight and invisible or nearly so. They can appear in the legs, near the rectum, the groin, or the vulva and are often inherited. The increased blood volume during pregnancy stresses the veins, and the heightened levels of progesterone relax the smooth muscles and impair venous return of the blood.

There are several things besides herbs you can do for varicosities. Leg inversions, or propping your legs up for 10-15 minutes, inverted yoga postures, swimming, and brisk walking all help the venous flow and digestion. Support stockings can be used in more extreme cases, but only if put on before getting out of bed in the morning. Avoid tight clothing, knee-high stockings, crossing your legs, and sitting or standing in one position for long periods of time. Eating a diet high in fiber, fruits, and plenty of water will help hemorrhoids and aid in digestion and elimination.

Raw garlic, onions and lecithin helps veins maintain or regain elasticity. Green leafy vegetables nourish and strengthen the circulatory system, as well as oats, wheat germ, and foods rich in vitamins A, C, E, and B complex. Up to 600 IU of vitamin E is recommended daily.

Butchers Broom is high in rutin, a component of vitamin C, and other compounds that actually help tone up vein walls. It has a long history of usage for varicosities. Take 100 mg three times per day.

Another good remedy, but less available, is Huckleberry tincture. You can make this yourself by putting fresh wild berries in a jar and pouring Brandy over them and steeping for 6 weeks or more. Strain and use one dropperful three times per day. This is especially helpful for women. Better yet, eat the fresh berries in season or freeze some for year round use.

Oatstraw tea or infusion is useful to strengthen the capillaries. Drink one or two cups daily. Nettle infusion improves the elasticity of the veins. Use at least one cup per day. Collinsonia root can also be used, taken in capsule or tea form.

Prepare an infusion or poultice of Comfrey, Yarrow, or Mullein leaves and apply as a compress to ease achiness and tighten veins. Apply Witch Hazel (from the drugstore) with a cloth. The astringency is pain relieving and helps tighten the tissues and reduce the swelling. Also, washing the varicosities with Oak bark infusion or apple cider vinegar will soothe pain. These measures apply to hemorrhoids as well.

Constipation: Slowing of the intestinal tract during pregnancy is likely the result of progesterone, and can lead to hard and infrequent stools. It is often the result of taking iron supplements, such as ferrous sulfate. Iron from herbal sources, such as Yellow Dock root, is rarely constipating. Laxatives should not be used during pregnancy.

Some things that you can do to help avoid constipation is eat plenty of whole grains, increases your liquid intake (especially water), eat less red meat (especially preserved and cured meat) and exercise. Prune juice, apple juice (natural, with the pulp), and fresh greens are essential to relieve constipation and keep it from coming back.

Dandelion root tincture can give sluggish bowels a help. Take 30 drops in warm water or tea three times a day. Flaxseed also aids bowel movements. Take 3 tablespoons of the gel in your breakfast.

Iron Deficiency Anemia: Iron is measured routinely in pregnancy. The amount of iron normally found in the blood is diluted during the second half of pregnancy with the normal increase in blood volume necessary to sustain the pregnancy. There are three different kinds of iron supplements; not all of them are harmless and helpful. The best kinds of iron supplementation comes from natural sources, and is kindest to the digestive system.

Yellow Dock root is the most widely known herb for iron. Made in a decoction, syrup, or tincture, it provides an excellent and fully absorbable source of iron. To prevent anemia, use 1 tablespoon of decoction or 25-40 drops of the tincture daily. If anemia is present, use this same dosage three times a day. It is commonly used after a hemorrhage to quickly replenish hemoglobin.

Other herbal sources of iron include Parsley, Nettles, Amaranth greens, Dandelion root, and Kelp. The best food sources of iron are liver, leafy greens, beets, oysters, heart, and tongue. When taking iron, take vitamin C to aid assimilation.

This is my favorite brew for anemia, and I use it widely. Put 2 ounces of dried Yellow Dock roots in a quart jar and fill with boiling water. Cap and steep 8 hours or overnight. Strain out plant, and steam without simmering or boiling until the liquid is reduced to one cup. Bring just to a boil and add 4 tablespoons of honey, stirring until it dissolves. Pour hot into a very clean jar. You can add 2 tablespoons of brandy to it, but this is optional. Cap, cool, and store in the refrigerator. The dose is 1-2 tablespoons daily.

Another anemia prevention brew is below.

½ ounce dried Nettle leaves
½ ounce dried Parsley leaves
½ ounce dried Comfrey leaves
½ ounce dried Yellow Dock root
½ ounce dried Peppermint leaves

Put herbs into a ½ gallon glass juice jar. Pour boiling water over to fill; cover tightly and steep for 8 hours or overnight. Drink freely, up to four cups per day, for one week each month.

*Both of these tonics are from Susan Weed’s Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year.

Heartburn: Heartburn is also one of the byproducts of progesterone production, as well as other hormones necessary to relax the smooth muscle walls in the body in preparation for the birth. Avoiding spicy and greasy foods, drinking large quantities of liquid with meals or before bedtime, and eating small meals more frequently will help alleviate much of the burning.

Chew on organic orange peel or grated grapefruit peel a few minutes after your meal may aid in digestion. Make Anise or Fennel seed tea a beverage for during and after meals, as they are a tonic and aid digestion. Add 1 cup of boiling water to 1 teaspoon of crushed seeds, and steep for 15 minutes. Creamy foods, such as yogurt, milk, or cream will help if there is an overproduction of stomach acids. And chewing on raw almonds throughout the day can help with relief.

Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva) can be taken in several forms to make the fire of heartburn go away. Stir 1 teaspoon of the power of this herb into a cup of boiling water or warm milk. Add a dash of cinnamon and a teaspoon of honey and then sip. The healing powers comes from its rich supply of mucilage, slippery substances that coat and protect inflamed mucous membranes. Slippery Elm lozenges can also be purchased at health food stores.

Fatigue and Mood Changes: Hormonal changes, emotional changes, physical changes, and all of the stresses of pregnancy may cause extreme fatigue and emotional swings, especially during the last trimester. This is all normal.

Meditation, yoga, and other relaxing tools ease emotional and physical stress. Daily time to do these things is essential for health and well-being. Eating a good diet is important, as excess sugar, caffeine, and refined white flours can cause blood sugar swings and exacerbate the mood swings and fatigue. Eat high protein snacks, high in nutritional value, whenever possible.

Motherwort tincture calms without causing drowsiness, and can be used whenever pressure and stress overwhelm you. 5 drops in a small glass of water will help to restore emotional balance. Repeat as frequently as every two hours as needed. Limit the use of this herb if you feel that you can’t get through the day without it, as it can be psychologically habit forming.

Skullcap tincture provides deep, refreshing sleep. Take up to 30 drops of tincture from dried plants (commercial tincture) or 5-15 drops of fresh plant tincture a half hour before bedtime. An infusion of the dried herb nourishes and strengthens the nerves. Drink two cups daily for several months if you are easily upset or if you feel especially tense.

One herbalist recommends a nourishing tea with equal parts of dried Nettle, Red Clover, Oatstraw, and Red Raspberry. Use 1 teaspoon of the dried mixture to one cup of boiling water. Drinking a cup a day will make a significant difference in your energy level. One could also do this same mixture with equal parts of tincture and using daily.

Essential oils of Basil and Peppermint can be used as a diffused aromatherapy relief for mental fatigue. Use them individually.

Urinary Tract Infections: One of the most common causes of preterm labor is a urinary tract infection, which irritates and triggers the uterus to contract. This can sometimes happen even without the symptoms associated with a urinary tract infection. Because the pressure of the ever-growing uterus, the bladder is unable to empty itself completely and may retain some urine and harbor bacteria. Also, yeast often grows and flourishes during pregnancy, which can foster a urinary tract infection. Try to avoid all sugars in the diet, which the bacteria will feed off of and flourish. Wiping from front to back after using the toilet, and urinate after intercourse. Avoid bubble baths, bath oils and salts, and perfumed soaps, as this changes the normal acid/alkaline balance of the genital tract.

Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) kills bacteria in the bladder. Because it is a strong diuretic, it requires cautious use during pregnancy. Brew one ounce of leaves in a quart jar of boiling water for eight hours. Drink one cup of this infusion every twelve hours the first two days, or in severe cases, one cup every four hours. Continue with at least one cup daily for another three days, even if symptoms disappear sooner. Do not use for more than 10 days.

A tincture can be used effectively of Uva Ursi, Corn Silk, and Echinacea. Add 10 drops of each tincture to ½ cup of water or noncitrus juice and drink. You can sometimes buy this mixture premade at health food stores.

Unsweetened Cranberry juice is a helpful addition to this regime. Read the labels- not all juice is equal! Most is made with corn syrup or sugar, and this will harbor growth of the bacteria. Cranberry capsules are now sold in bottles, which are easier to take and portable. Take two every four hours, with at least 16 ounces of water, to dilute the gel.

Nettles tea or infusion of 5-10 cups every week during the last trimester can help to strengthen the kidneys. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is called for if Uva Ursi does not clear the infection alone within five days. Use one half ounce of the Yarrow flowers and one half ounce Uva Ursi leaves in one quart of boiling water. Steep 8 hours, and drink 2-3 cups daily for no more than 5 days. This can clear even the most stubborn and chronic urinary tract infections.

Extra vitamin C is helpful, up to 500 mg per hour may be used. Be cautious, as this may cause loose stools. Remember to keep hydrated.

High Blood Pressure: There are two kinds of high blood pressure recognized during pregnancy- gestational hypertension, marked with a steady rise of the blood pressure after the 28th week of pregnancy, and chronic hypertension, indicated by persistent readings of 130/90 or higher. The main danger in both types is to the baby. Prevention is always the best treatment, and hopefully through good control the pregnancy can progress to term without problems.

Exercise is of utmost importance in pregnancy, but even more so if blood pressure is or is becoming a problem. Regular exercise is of course preferable to a last minute rush to cure the problem. Emotional stress can have dire consequences on blood pressure, and attempts should be made to relax, meditate, and take time out to nurture yourself. Controlling weight gain is not advisable, but overindulgence and obesity is a definite problem. A sensible diet high in nutrition will help fuel the body and the baby without creating excessive weight gain.

Once the blood pressure has begun to climb, there are a few things you can do to help yourself. First, eat garlic, parsley, and onions, which help to lower the blood pressure. Cucumbers are the food most renowned for reducing high blood pressure. ½ cup of cucumber juice or an entire raw cucumber daily is the suggested amount. They also relieve constipation and strengthen the kidneys. Celery has also been studied extensively and has a compound in it that lowers the blood pressure considerably. 4 stalks daily is the recommended dosage. These things are certainly worth a try!

Bitter herbs will stimulate the production of bile. Herbs which are especially effective are Dandelion, Milk Thistle, and Blessed Thistle. It doesn’t matter what form you take them in, but really taste their bitterness to get the bile moving.

The juice of ½ a lemon or lime plus 2 teaspoons of cream of tartar in a half cup water taken once a day for three days safely lowers blood pressure during pregnancy. If needed, repeat once after a rest of two days.

Hops (Humulus lupulus) made into a tea is strong enough to reduce hypertension and safe enough to take nightly. It is not to be used during the first half of pregnancy.

Passionflower (Passiflora), a common weed in North America, is reported to have successful control of hypertension using 2-4 capsules daily or 15 drops of the tincture 3 times daily. Take for several weeks to get the maximum benefit.

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) The infusion of this herb is unsurpassed for reducing anxiety and nervous tension. It can, in this way, help with high blood pressure if this is a causative factor.

Hawthorn berries, if taken for extended periods, are a strong and safe vasodilator. It dilates coronary arteries and helps relax other, peripheral arteries providing more blood flow to the heart itself. Essential hypertension, rather than gestational hypertension, is more specific for its usage. 15 drops of the tincture 2-3 times daily is the dose.

Pre-eclampsia: This is a serious and often life-threatening complication of pregnancy. It is often preventable with good nutrition and exercise. It commonly occurs after the 30th week of gestation. Edema, hypertension, and protein in the urine are the first landmarks that it may be setting in. We do not know the cause of pre-eclampsia, but links between it and deficiencies in the diet have been shown.

Throughout pregnancy, a woman should consume 60-80 grams of protein daily. It is needed for the rapidly growing baby, uterus, and placenta. It is important to chart how much protein you are taking in, from all of the food sources, and figure out how much you need daily. Salt should be used to taste, as a lack of salt in the diet can also contribute to this complication. 1,000 grams of calcium is the recommended amount during pregnancy, as this is often one of the most known factors involved. Adequate calorie intake daily is essential to normal growth and development of the baby and to help the body function properly.

Raspberry, Nettle, and Dandelion used throughout the pregnancy will tone and nourish the system.

Dandelion leaves are found virtually everywhere and there are few herbs better suited to treat pre-eclampsia. It supports and nourishes the liver, as poor functioning of the liver is both symptomatic and causative of pre-eclampsia. It also helps the kidneys to function better, and is a good source of calcium and potassium. Dried leaves can be made into an infusion and 2 or more cups can be taken daily. Easier yet, simply eat several ounces fresh or cooked leaves regularly.

Potassium increased can help as well. Potato peels and bananas, mint, chicory, and dandelion leaves all have high levels of potassium. Take 100 mg of vitamin B6 complex daily in conjunction with a high potency B complex supplement. This will restore the normal balance of sodium and potassium in your body fluids. Add up to 3 tablespoons of powdered Spirulina or Chorella seaweed to your daily diet, which augments protein and mineral levels in the body.

Premature Rupture of the Membranes: One of the most valuable things one can do in this circumstance is outwit the bacteria. When the waters break before labor begins, it is imperative to ward off invaders. Increase vitamins C and E to prevent infection and bleeding. Pay careful attention to wiping after using the toilet. Do not put anything into the vagina, including a tampon, finger, or have intercourse, as this may introduce bacteria into the susceptible uterus.

Take 5-10 drops of Echinacea tincture 2-3 times daily as a prophylactic against infection. Drink Nettle, Comfrey or Violet leaf infusions to encourage healing if the rupture happens early and you want to encourage it to reseal. Take your temperature regularly and watch for increases. Also pay attention to your body signals for signs similar to the flu, and drink plenty of fluids to replace that which you have lost.

Unripe Cervix: It may be necessary to ripen the cervix to hasten labor and birth. If this is necessary, these simple things may help make it go quicker and easier.

Evening Primrose Oil, three capsules daily for up to a week, may ripen the cervix. Also, it can be used topically on the cervix as well.

Black Cohosh tincture, 10 drops under the tongue hourly, will have a noticeable effect on the cervix in 3-4 hours. Continue until it is fully soft and ripe.

Nipple stimulation is very effective for ripening the cervix and initiating labor, as well as sexual intercourse as semen contains natural prostaglandins.

Pregnancy Tea:

8 tablespoons Raspberry leaf
8 tablespoons Nettle
4 tablespoons Oatstraw
2 tablespoons Lemon Balm
2 tablespoons Rose Hips
2 tablespoons Spearmint leaf

Combine the herbs and store in a jar or airtight container. To prepare the tea, add 4 tablespoons of the herb blend to a quart jar, then fill with boiling water. Cover and steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain, and sweeten if desired. Makes 4 cups. You can begin drinking this tea in the second trimester, with 1-4 cups daily.


Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy

There are several herbs that need to be avoided during pregnancy. Just because something is natural does not mean that it is harmless. Remember, herbs are a medicine as well and can have harmful effects on you and the baby. If in doubt, as someone who is more knowledgeable about them and can help with specific herbs and their uses. Following is a list:

*Antihistamines, including Ma-huang, Ephedra, Osha root

*Laxatives, including Flax seed, Senna, Aloes, Castor oil, Turkey Rhubarb, Buckthorn, Cascara, Sagrada<

*Diuretics, including Buchu, Horsetail, Juniper berries

*Steroids and herbs containing steroid-like factors, such as Agave, Ginseng, Licorice, Hops, Sage (which also decreases lactation)

*Herbs known to cause miscarriage, such as Ginger, Tansy leaves, Pennyroyal leaves, Cotton root bark, Blue Cohosh root and Black Cohosh in early pregnancy.

*Also, False Unicorn, Dong Quai Horse Chestnut, PN6, Astragaulus, Barberry, Bloodroot, Comfrey (internally), Feverfew, Ginko, Horehound, Hyssop, Ipecac, Lobelia, Mistletoe, Mugwort, Nasturtium, Peruvian bark, Poppy, Quassia, Rue, Sassafras, Saw Palmeto, Thyme (in large quantities), Vervain, Wild Indigo, Wormwood, Yellow Jasmine, and Yucca



Herbs Used During Labor and Birth

Initiating Labor: Sometimes a labor needs to be initiated or induced. This is rare, but sometimes necessary for the health and well-being of the mother and baby. Below is a list of suggestions if this to be done which can help the process safely and naturally.

Castor Oil seems to be the favorite among midwives. It can be used internally and externally to help initiate uterine contractions. Blend 2 ounces of Castor oil, 2 ounces of vodka (to cut the taste and the texture), and 2 ounces of orange juice. Drink all at once, then follow with more orange juice or other strong citrus beverage. Repeat after an hour, and then again one more hour later. Labor will usually ensue in 3-5 hours after the last dose if all is ready and well.

Blue Cohosh tincture is another well-known labor initiator. 3-8 drops in a glass of warm water or tea is very effective, repeating every ½ hour for several hours until contractions are well established. If labor is not underway in a few hours, put a dropperful under the tongue every hour for up to four more hours until contractions are strong and regular.

Homeopathic Caulophyllum 200X (which is Blue Cohosh in homeopathic form) can be used as well. Repeat the dose every half hour for 2 hours.

Helping A Stalled Labor: It is most important to understand why a labor has stalled. Malpresentation, stress, exhaustion, lack of food, and obstructions can commonly halt progress. If there is nothing physical causing the delay, the following may help bring the labor back to strength.

Relaxation is one of the easiest and most helpful tactics in dealing with a stalled labor. Taking a moment to meditate or having some time to yourself can help immensely. Rest and sleep, if needed, as being exhausted from a long labor or laboring without adequate sleep can have detrimental effects on both mother and baby. And of course, eat! You cannot have a baby without adequate nourishment.

Using the same measures in the above section on Initiating Labor can help to augment a stalled one as well. Blue Cohosh root and Cotton Root Bark are the two most known herbs for this situation. 10-20 drops of the tincture in a small glass of water and repeated hourly or as needed. Using Blue and Black Cohoshs together seem to work even more effectively to coordinate regular and strong contractions.

Ginger Root as a tea or tincture can bring energy back into the pelvis. This is useful if the reason for the stall is exhaustion. Use it fresh, dried, or powdered. In each cup of water, steep 1 ounce of the grated fresh root, ¼ ounce of the shredded dried root, or ½ -1 teaspoon of the powder. Steep for 5-30 minutes. Sip the tea, or use a full cup as often as every 30 minutes. Or you can try 15-20 drops of the tincture in a cup of water or Raspberry leaf infusion. Care must be taken if used towards the end of labor, as it brings more circulation to the uterus and may increase the risk of hemorrhage.

Ginsing Root can be used in capsule, extract, or liquid form. Avoid teas which are less effective. Do not use forms that combine other herbs with it. Dosage varies according to the strength of the form and preparation of the herb.

Pain: Pain is always a part of labor and birth. Sometimes, though, an unusually painful labor may be helped with some simple herbs. Everyone perceives labor differently, and each labor is unique in its own right.

Motherwort tincture produces a floating or non-existent feeling. This is not good if the labor is irregular. Use 5 drops in a glass of water. The effect is noticeable within 20 minutes and gradually fades over a few hours.

Black Cohosh root and Wild Yam root tinctures can be combined in equal parts and diluted in a cup of warm water. ½ teaspoon of the mixture can be taken every 20 minutes as needed. Skullcap, Passionflower, and Valerian can also be useful. Take one or more of these in 1 teaspoon doses of the tincture diluted in warm water.

After the Birth

Help Expelling the Placenta: If the need arises to hasten the expulsion of the placenta, or if it is retained for a while, the following are useful.

Early nursing of the baby produces natural oxytocin to help the uterus contract. You can also roll the nipple in the fingers to stimulate this if the baby is not interested in sucking.

If the delivery of the placenta is slow and the uterus is contracting, try squatting, pushing with the contractions, massaging the uterus gently, and nipple stimulation.

Angelica tincture are powerful uterine stimulants. A single dose of 30-50 drops of the tincture under the tongue usually works in 5 minutes. If the contractions don’t resume in 15 minutes, repeat the dose. A mixture of 50 drops of Angelica tincture and 20 drops of Blue Cohosh tincture under the tongue will cause rapid emptying and clamping down of the uterus. Repeat in 2-5 minutes if necessary.

Witch Hazel bark tincture stops bleeding rapidly through its powerful hemostatic and astringent effect, and does not constrict the os or slow down the emergence of the afterbirth. 10-20 drops of the tincture under the tongue can be used repeatedly to control bleeding until the placenta is delivered. It does not help expel the placenta by itself.

Postpartum Hemorrhage: A postpartum bleed is one of the scariest things that can happen to a mother after the birth of her baby. It requires prompt attention and control to prevent shock and massive blood loss.

Shepherd’s Purse is extremely useful as a remedy. It can be used by the dropperful under the tongue during a hemorrhage. It is an amazing blood coagulant and vasoconstrictor. It not only stops bleeding, but also promotes uterine contractions, making it specific for postpartum hemorrhage. It can usually stop a hemorrhage in 5 seconds.

There are several combined herbal preparation tinctures that you can purchase with this herb in it to stop bleeding after the birth. Choose wisely the combination and check for the preparation. Fresh herb is always preferable to dried, as dried loses its potent qualities quickly.

After Pains: Unfortunately, after the birth of the baby there is still work for the uterus to be done. The uterus continues to contract strongly for a few minutes after birth until the placenta births, but then it also continues for several days following the birth of the baby. The afterbirth pains are commonly felt for 1-2 days after the birth, and gradually subside in intensity. Here are some things that can help in dealing with these sometimes painful contractions.

First and foremost, the sucking of the baby will help the uterus to return to normal quickly after the birth. During nursing, it is common for the contractions to become more intense. This lessens the duration of the after pains, though, and helps in the long run. Rest is essential, and making frequent trips to the bathroom to empty your bladder will allow the uterus to drain and prevent blood clots and pooling of blood, which will create more pain.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) will help relieve afterbirth pains and helps tone the uterus and ease the nervous system. The tincture is most tolerable, 5-20 drops in a glass of warm water. It can be taken repeatedly until the effects are noticed.

Catnip leaves (Nepeta cataria) is well known as a menstrual cramp helper. It relieves spasms of the uterus, keeps the after flow moving out easily and clot free, relaxes nervous tension, and acts as a pain killer. Tea and tincture are most effective. A cup of tea, or 10-30 drops of the tincture is the usual dose.

Try this After-pain brew by Susan Weed.

1 ounce dried Cramp bark or Black Haw root bark
½ ounce dried Blue Cohosh root
½ ounce dried Hops flowers

Infuse herbs well in a one quart jar filled with boiling water, and cap well. After eight hours, strain out herbs and refrigerate liquid. Reheat and sip it throughout the day and night, as needed, to ease pain and encourage rest.

Tears or Stitches: Any trauma to this delicate area can be quite painful and sore in the immediate postpartum. Sitz baths, cold compresses, and rest are essential to help the area heal.

Arnica montana, in homeopathic form, is wonderful for this purpose. Get the strongest possible form, 200C if you can get it, and take it every half-hour for the first 3 hours after birth.

Comfrey compresses are invaluable. They aid healing, and offer pain relief. You can also soak in a sitz bath made with comfrey leaves. Drinking it in tea once a day builds new cells rapidly and helps alleviate pain.

Aloe Vera Gel from the fresh plant can be made into a poultice to sooth and heal a torn perineum. It is remarkably pain killing when applied with the green removed and the gel surface on the perineum. You can chill the leaves before placing them on the skin surface, which adds extra soothing.

Slippery Elm Bark (Ulmus fulva) powder added to water and olive oil (or vitamin E oil) and used directly on the tear or incision binds together torn tissue, soothes pain, and strengthens the skin surface.

A wonderful and soothing wash for after the birth can be made to squirt directly on the area with a peribottle. Mix 2 parts Comfrey, and 1 part each of Calendula, Yarrow flowers, Lavender, and Rosemary leaves. Add a handful to a pint of boiling water, steep until cool, then strain. Pour the cool liquid into a peribottle and rinse with it after urinating. You can also use this same formula for a sitz bath.

For Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is a wonderful time of nourishment for your baby, and mothering for you. There is little that one needs to do except ensure adequate fluids, rest, and food. You may want to try some of the herbs listed to increase milk supply and nourish your body.

If you experience a problem with breastfeeding, or suspect that you may have an infection or a plugged milk duct, please notify me and consult a more comprehensive book on breastfeeding. It can often be cleared quickly and easily with early intervention.

Blessed Thistle leaves (Cnicus benedictus) are famed for their ability to increase milk supply. It is best used as a tincture, 20 drops two to four times a day. It can be used in a tea with other ingredients.

Borage leaves (Borago officinalis) are most highly regarded as a tea for increasing milk supply, better than Blessed Thistle. Half a cupful of tea at each nursing helps ensure adequate supply of milk, acts as a mild laxative, and sooths nerves.

Nursing formula:

1 ounce dried Blessed Thistle or Borage leaves
1 ounce dried Raspberry or Nettle leaves
1 teaspoon of any one of these seeds: Anise, Cumin, Fennel, Caraway, Coriander, or Dill

Place the leaves in a half-gallon jar and fill to the top with boiling water. Cap and let steep overnight. Strain and refrigerate until needed. Pour one cupful of the brew and heat it nearly to a boil as you get ready to nurse. Pour it over a teaspoon of one of the aromatic seeds, brew for 5 minutes, and drink.

Recovery tea:

2 ounces Raspberry leaf
1 ounce Nettle, Red Clover, Vervain, and Lemon Balm

Mix the herbs, and add 1 teaspoon to a cup of boiling water and steep, strain, and drink. You can drink up to three cups a day.

This brew helps heal the site where the placenta was attached, calms the nerves, and helps balance the hormones, thanks to Red Clover. It also helps promote milk production, from the Nettles.

If you are so fortunate to have way too much milk, Sage tea may be your answer. Drink cautiously, though, as it is potent and can dry up your milk supply. A cup every few hours is all that is usually needed, but give yourself time between cups to allow it to work and judge each time if you need more.

References and further reading:

Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year,
Susan S. Weed, 1995


Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 2nd Edition
James F. Balch, MD and Phyllis A. Balch, CNC 1997


The Woman’s Book of Healing Herbs
Sari Harrar and Sara Altshul O’Donnell
Prevention Health Books for Women, 1999


Holistic Midwifery: A Comprehensive Textbook for Midwives in Homebirth Practice; Volume 1
Anne Frye, 1995


Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, 2nd Edition
Michael Murray, ND and Joseph Pizzorno, ND, 1998