Filed under: herbal remedies, pregnancy | Tags: herbs during pregnancy, herbs to avoid during pregnanacy, prevent miscarrage
Remember that herbs can have powerful effects on you and your unborn child. Just because an herb is “natural” does not mean it is SAFE! Some herbs can be very helpful to you but others should be avoided.
Avoid the following herbs during pregnancy:
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Borderline Herbs:
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Filed under: herbal remedies, postpartum care, pregnancy | Tags: herbs during pregnancy, nettle leaf, postpartum bleedig, pregnancy tonic
Less well known as a pregnancy tonic but deserving a kinder reputation and use, Urtica 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 includes nearly every one known to necessary for human health and growth.Vitamins A, C, D and K, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, iron and sulphur are particularly abundant in nettles. The infusion is a dark green color approaching black. The taste is deep and rich. If you are blessed with a nettle patch near you, use the fresh plant as a pot herb in the spring.
Some pregnant women alternate weeks of nettle and raspberry brews; others drink raspberry until the last month and then switch to nettles to insure large amounts of vitamin K in the blood before birth.
The benefits of drinking nettle infusion before and throughout pregnancy include:
~ Aiding the kidneys. Nettle infusions were instrumental in rebuilding the kidneys of a woman who was told she would have to be put on a dialysis machine. Since the kidneys must cleanse 150 percent of the normal blood supply for most of the pregnancy, nettle’s ability to nourish and strengthen them is of major importance. Any accumulation of minerals in the kidneys, such as gravel or stones, is gently loosened, dissolved and eliminated by the consistent use of nettle infusions.
~ Increasing fertility in women and men.
~ Nourishing mother and fetus.
~ Easing leg cramps and other spasms.
~ Diminishing pain during and after birth. The high calcium content, which is readily assimilated, helps diminish muscle pains in the uterus, in the legs and elsewhere.
~ Preventing hemorrhage after birth. Nettle is a superb source of vitamin K, and increases available hemoglobin, both of which decrease the likelihood of postpartum hemorrhage. Fresh Nettle Juice, in teaspoon doses, slows postpartum bleeding.
~ Reducing hemorrhoids. Nettle’s mild astringency and general nourishing action tightens and strengthens blood vessels, helps maintain arterial elasticity and improves venous resilience.
~ Increasing the richness and amount of breast milk.
Herbal Allies for Pregnancy Problems
By Susun Weed
Wise women believe that most of the problems of pregnancy can be prevented by attention to nutrition. Morning sickness and mood swings are connected to low blood sugar; backaches and severe labor pains often result from insufficient calcium; varicose veins, hemorrhoids, constipation, skin discoloration and anemia are evidence of lack of specific nutrients; preeclampsia, the most severe problem of pregnancy, is a form of acute malnutrition. Excellent nutrition includes pure water, controlled breath, abundant light, loving and respectful relationships, beauty and harmony in daily life, joyous thoughts and vital foodstuffs.
During pregnancy nutrients are required to create the cells needed to form two extra pounds of uterine muscle, the nerves, bones, organs, muscles, glands and skin of the fetus, several pounds of amniotic fluid, a placenta and a 50 percent increase in blood volume. In addition, extra kidney and liver cells are needed to process the waste of’ two beings instead of one.
Wild foods and organically grown produce, grains and herbs are the best source of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients needed during pregnancy. All the better if the expectant mother can get out and gather her own herbs: stretching, bending, breathing, moving, touching the earth, taking time to talk with the plants and to open herself to their spiritual world.
Filed under: herbal remedies, labour, pregnancy | Tags: blkach cohosh, castor oil, cesarean rates, delayed labour, due date, how to induce labor, how to induce labour, inducing labor, inducing labour, induction, Michel Odent, natural childbirth, pregnancy, pregnancy blog
In Peace
Filed under: herbal remedies, postpartum care | Tags: afterpains, colic, herbal medicine, herbal postpartun, how to get rid off jaundice, how to relief colic, jaundice, natural childbirth, newborn jaundice, overcoming afterpains, postpartum, postpartum care
Keep the room warm immediatley after the birth, and do not give a postpartum woman cold drinks. If a newly postpartum woman has to warm her body after a chill, or if she has to warm up the contents of her stomach, she is wasting vital energy. Her entire course of postpartum recovery can be greatley affected by these two factors. Her energy at this time is precious. Respect and conserve it.
Afterpains
These can be very painful and distracting for the new mother. Strongly brewed Ginger tea brings relief from afterpains. Pour one cup boiling water over three to five slices of fresh ginger and steep five to ten minutes.
Motherwort tincture also eases afterpains-begin dosage at 1/2 dropperful and increase as needed.
Jaundice
Traditional Chinese medicine offers a very effective remedy for newborn jaundice, which parents can obtain from a Chinese apothecary or herbalist. Simmer this root, and swab the liquid inside the baby’s mouth. One or two applications will usually clear the jaundice.
A few teaspoons of crushed Fennel or Caraway seed tea can greatly relief the discomfort of colic. Try light pressure and warm compresses on baby’s belly, or bringing his feet slowly up to his ears several times. Clockwise massage in a sweeping motion above the belly button may also be effective.
Misalignment of the skull or spine may also be implicated in colic. Have the baby see a chiropractor with pediatric expertise (newborn adjustments are more like massage than manipulations).
Some babies find great relief in this simple exercise. With the baby on her back, grasp her tights and lift her feet toward her head, like during a diaper change. Continue to roll upward, and raise the baby until she is hanging upside down. Really! Now wait and watch her move: she will rotate her back this way and that, and when she seems finished, gentky let her down.
First touch her head down, then roll down shoulders, back, butt, and her legs uncurl. Babies partucularly benefit from this exercise when offered daily.
Excerpts from “Herbs and Homeopathy Postpartum” by Shanon Anton, found in “Hearts and Hands” by Elizabeth Davis; Photo by David K
Filed under: herbal remedies, pregnancy | Tags: natural childbirth, herbs during pregnancy, wise woman herbal, healing with herbs, red rappberry leaves, pregnancy tonic, reducing pain in labour, nausea relief, prevent hemorrhage, pregnancy tea, vitamin c, alternative medicine, pregnancy sickness, pregnancy morning sickness, prevent miscarriage, how to prevent miscarriage, herbal medicine healing, susun weed
RED RASPBERRY LEAVES (Rubus spp.)
Brewed as a tea or as an infusion, raspberry is the best known, most widely used, and safest of all uterine and pregnancy tonic herbs. It contains fragrine, an alkaloid which gives tone to the muscles of the pelvic region, including the uterus itself.
Most of the benefits ascribed to regular use of Raspberry tea through pregnancy are traced to the nourishing source of vitamins and minerals found in this plant and to the strengthening power of fragrine - an alkaloid which gives tone to the muscles of the pelvic region, including the uterus itself. Of special note are the rich concentration of vitamin C, the presence of vitamin E and the easily assimilated calcium and iron. Raspberry leaves also contain vitamins A and B complex and many minerals, including phosphorous and potassium.
The benefits of drinking a raspberry leaf brew before and throughout pregnancy include:
~ Increasing fertility in both men and women. Raspberry leaf is an excellent fertility herb when combined with Red Clover.
~ Preventing miscarriage and hemorrhage. Raspberry leaf tones the uterus and helps prevent miscarriage and postpartum hemorrhage from a relaxed or atonic uterus.
~ Easing of morning sickness. Many attest to raspberry leaves’ gentle relief of nausea and stomach distress throughout pregnancy.
~ Reducing pain during labor and after birth. By toning the muscles used during labor and delivery, Raspberry leaf eliminates many of the reasons for a painful delivery and prolonged recovery. It does not, however, counter the pain of pelvic dilation.
~ Assisting in the production of plentiful breast milk. The high mineral content of Raspberry leaf assist in milk production, but its astringency may counter that for some women.
~ Providing a safe and speedy pariuntion. Raspberry leaf works to encourage the uterus to let go and function without tension. It does not strengthen contractions, but does allow the contracting uterus to work more effectively and so may make the birth easier and faster.
From
Susun Weed’s Wise Woman Way
Filed under: breastfeeding, herbal remedies, postpartum care | Tags: boost milk supply, breastfeeding, galactagogue herbs, herbal medicine. latching on, herbal milk enhancement, herbal remedies, herbs, herbs for brestfeeding, natural childbirth, natural milk enhancement
Alfalfa is used to increase appetite, vitality and to help with water retention. It is high in various nutrients, high in protein, and contains vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, C, E, K1 along with minerals calcium potassium, phosphorus, iron and zinc. It is a good pregnancy herb. many midwives and lactation consultants suggest about 2-4 grams daily. There are rare reports of allergic reaction and sprouts are not to be used by those with SLE (Lupus). It is also a great blood builder.
Anise- pimpinella anisum
Anise is a wonderful anti-spasmodic and is great for the woman with a colicky baby or one with heartburn. It is not for use in pregnancy.
Blessed thistle- Cnicus Benedictus
Blessed Thistle is a wonderful herb for helping milk supply; in many uses it is combined with fenugreek. This bristly herb also modifies hormone levels and can also be used alone.
Black cohosh- cimicifuga rasemosa
Black Cohosh is used herbally and homeopathically. Modifies estrogen levels and helps with oxytocin levels. This herb is used to aid in labor and delivery, and to make the labor easier. In modifying oxytocin it aids in the milk ejection reflex. Oxytocin is responsible for uterine contractions and the contractions in breast with MER. It s anti spasmodic and used with menstrual cramps. Black cohosh is used to treat symptoms of PMS and in other folk remedies is that it is used for rattlesnake bites. 1ml tincture 3x daily. Not for use in early pregnancy as it is a known abortificient. Use with guidance from a qualified practitioner.
Borage- borago officinales
Borage leaves can be eaten as greens and mixed with collards and mustards. However there is controversy as borage leave contains pyrozoloid alkaloids, and large amounts of this constituent can cause liver damage. however in my research it seems that most agree that the seed oil has so little of the PA’s that the oil is safe. The flowers are also safe and edible. It is used a restorative to the adrenal cortex and the flowers are said to be an aid in treating depression. The oil is rich in the omega 3 fatty acids needed to enrich milk for brain growth. it is also used in the last weeks of pregnancy to help in perineal massage or to soften cervix. Usual dose is 1000mg (1 gm) daily.
Caraway- Carum carviifor
Caraway seeds are used when a woman has muscle spasms, in back, neck and breasts. Caraway contains a substance which seems to relax the muscles in the breasts and improve let down.
Dandelion- taraxacum officionale
Dandelion leaves and root have been used for generations to treat liver, gallbladder and kidney aliments. Them leaves are traditionally used as a diuretic. It is loaded with calcium, iron, vitamins A, C, and k that it helps with women post birth to recover their vitality quickly.
Dill- Anethum graveolens
Dill is reported to be antispasmodic, duretic, anti-flatulent, and galactagogue. It is used in “gripe water’ remedies for colic in infant. the oil and tea has been used to use its antifoaming action and as an appetite stimulant. The seeds have been chewed to help with bad breath. Dill is an emmenagogue so only use food doses in pregnancy. It does well in tea to aid a milk supply, usually 2-3 cups are taken daily.
Evening Primrose Oil- Onethera Biennis
Evening Primrose oil it is a seed oil that is used medicinally . EPO contains gamma lenoleic and gamma lenolenic acids- necessary for brain growth and good for skin conditions. it relieves menopausal discomforts and PMS. it seems to control psoriasis and thrombosis. In lactation it is used to actually enrich mothers milk that seems to be low in fat.
Fennel-Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel seed’s general actions include those of a circulatory stimulant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, galactagogue and anti-spasmodic. These particular reasons make it a good milk aid. It is also used in many colic remedies. In low doses this can be used for heartburn in pregnancy but large doses are toxic and an emmenagogue. This can be used in tincture or tea.
Fenugreek- trigonella graceum foecus
This herb is a standard among lactation consultants. It is diaphoretic, galactagogue, stomachic, anti- diabetic mucilaginous herb. This herb is used in flavoring maple syrup, and Indian curries. Fenugreek is used in many mother’s milk teas and is used as a poultice for mastitis. The dose is safe up to 6 grams per day and if using on a regular basis, moms report their skin can smell somewhat like maple syrup, but the babies do not seem to mind. Many lactation professionals will mix this with blessed thistle. If you have diabetes or are hypoglycemic use with caution, It does not replace insulin therapy. In studies done with diabetics fenugreek also reduces cholesterol level. This herb is also an emmenagogue and not to be used during pregnancy as it can cause contractions.
Goat’s rue- Galega officianalis
is a wonderful herb for milk supply and is safe to use if you are tandem nursing or are pregnant and needing to develop more breast ductal tissue. This herb is a galactagogue, diuretic, diaphoretic and it reduces blood glucose levels. So be cautious if you are diabetic or hypoglycemic. it does not replace insulin therapy. Animal studies show that this herb can increase milk supply up to 50 percent.
Hops- Humulus lupulus
Hops helps with some supply issues, but is actually a relaxant and assists with the milk ejection reflex. The strobiles can be eaten as a vegetable. Hops is a milk tonic and a mild sedative and muscle relaxer. The estrogen content is the reason for its increase in lactation, however it should NOT be used if there is or has been a history of depression. Usual dose is 2 -350 mg 3x daily.
Marshmallow root althea officianalis
The Marshmallow leaves are used to heal bronchial and urinary tract irritations. It is very mucilaginous and the root are use as expectorant, used to heal wounds, such as burns and boils and heal peptic ulcers and hiatal hernia. It is good in minute doses for babes for reflux. It is used to heal mastitis as well. Marshmallow may slow the absorption of other medications. Tincture or tea can be used. 1 cup of tea 3 times daily or tincture 3ml 3-4 times daily.
Milk Thistle- silbanum marianum.
The entire plant is edible and aids in digestion. Many people use this herb for liver protection from all type of toxins from cadmium to death-cap mushrooms. The leaves are used to increase milk supply. It is also protectant of the heart. Seeds should only be used by qualified practitioners. Many midwives use this on infants in just a few drops to help with jaundice. To build milk supply the herb moderates estrogen levels. It is good for PMS symptoms as well.Usual dosage is 1 gram daily in 2 doses.
Nettles- Urtica diotica
Nettle has been used since ancient times for disorders of the spleen, asthma and as a diuretic. it’s powder has been used for nosebleed and contains calcium so that it is effective against bleeding internally and externally either as a powder or tincture. It is also taken to treat nettle rash and works well in allergic rhinitis and in Germany is used in arthritis preparations.There are no known restrictions for use in pregnancy and lactation. It is high in other vitamin c and K.
Oats- Avena sativa
Oat straw works as a nervous system restorer, to strengthen a weakened constitution. It treats shingles and chickenpox topically. It calms a nursing mother and stimulates supply. It contains high contents of silica, zinc, and manganese and beta -glucans that stimulates immune functions. There are no know contraindications in pregnancy and lactation. oatmeal in current medical studies is also shown to reduce cholesterol levels.
Red raspberry rubus ideaus
Red Raspberry leaves are the ultimate pregnancy and nursing herbs. High in vitamins; a,d,e,k,c, and it contains calcium, iron, it is safe during pregnancy. See a whole post about it on Birthowl’s natural childbirth blog.
Schizandra berries-
This is a Chinese herb that is used similarly to red raspberry as that it is tonic and astringent, and adaptable enough to balance female hormones. Schizandra is supportive of supply in that it assists with the milk ejection reflex to make it manageable and more efficient. It harmonizes the balance of the body’s physiologic processes. Schizandra is a woody and aromatic vine that is sometimes referred to the fruit of 5 flavors in Chinese medicine because it includes the taste of all the five Chinese elements.
Inspired by Mechell Turner, photos by Mechell Turner
read more at Birthandbreastfeeding.com
