Expecting your first baby can be a wonderful but daunting experience, as there is so much information available these days. Foremost, is keeping mum well and delivering a healthy, happy baby which means some lifestyle changes are advisable. There are many things that can be detrimental during this time, alcohol and recreational drugs being among them, but it is also advisable to limit caffeine, as it can interfere with sleep, contribute to nausea and lead to dehydration. With this in mind, the following are safe herbs that may help to facilitate the happy event.
CAMOMILE
Drinking camomile tea during pregnancy can help to manage many gastrointestinal problems, such as mild tummy cramps, wind, bloating, indigestion or gastro. It is also a calming herb for teething babies and in cases of ear infections, stomach aches/cramps or in times of stress/discomfort in children.
FENNEL
A useful herb for colic in infants and small children, as well as being suitable for promoting milk production in breastfeeding mothers. Fennel provides relief from flatulence, acidic stomachs, abdominal cramps and spasms, plus it helps to improve digestion and appetite.
LADY’S MANTLE
This herb helps stop bleeding and is particularly effective on the endometrium (uterine wall). Lady’s mantle’s rapid healing action can strengthen the uterus for women who are likely to miscarry and after giving birth. Also beneficial for vomiting, intestinal disorders and diarrhoea, as well as after prolonged blood loss.
PEPPERMINT
An effective carminative (wind expelling) and antispasmodic herb for the entire digestive system. Peppermint assists in the management of reflux (dyspepsia) and provides temporary relief from symptoms of gastritis, poor digestion, heartburn, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting during pregnancy, sudden pains/cramps in the abdomen, flatulence and colic. It is safe to drink during pregnancy and lactation, and is suitable for children over 4 years.
RASPBERRY
Tea made from raspberry leaves helps prepare the body for labour and supports the ligaments of the uterus by tightening, toning and strengthening them. It is also effective in cases of diarrhoea, leucorrhoea (vaginal discharge) and similar conditions, due to its astringent, tissue-tightening properties.
SHEPHERD’S PURSE
Considered one of nature’s best haemostatics, by either constricting the blood vessels or coagulating the blood, Shepherd’s purse can help to facilitate childbirth and also stem post natal bleeding. It has excellent astringent properties and can also assist in chronic diarrhoea.
Find out more about the medicinal benefits of herbs for mums & bubs through enrolling in our Online Herbal Medicine Course today!