Natural Teas to Support Women In Pregnancy

For centuries, herbal medicine and plants have been used to nourish, care for, and fuel human’s bodies. During pregnancy, many women have also found comfort and nourishment through herbal teas. Certain herbs are believed to be effective means of helping the liver and nervous system, providing digestive and antiviral support, and acting as a uterine tonic and anti-inflammatory. Together, herbs can make for a hyper-nourishing drink for expecting mothers throughout their pregnancy journey.

The following are natural herbs and plants that can provide relief and support to women who are pregnant:

Red Raspberry Leaves

By far the most renowned herbal tea used by pregnant women are Red Raspberry leaves. They’ve been used for centuries as a tonic during pregnancy, with many studies pointing to the plants’ uterine relaxant effects. Red raspberry leaves are safe to consume during pregnancy and contain calcium, Vitamin C and B complex vitamins, vitamin E, beta carotene, iron, and other minerals including potassium and phosphorus. They also include an alkaloid called fragrine, which gives tone to the pelvic muscles and uterus. 

By consuming a recommended 2-3 cups of red raspberry leaf tea daily, one may experience the following effects:

● Reduced fevers

● Controlled bleeding

● Eased morning sickness

● Increased fertility

● Prevention of miscarriage or hemorrhage

● Help bringing an undelivered placenta

● Reduced pain during labor and birth by toning the uterus

● Increased milk production

● Maintaining a strong immune system

● Safely provide absorbable vitamins and minerals for you and your developing baby

Nettle

With more chlorophyll than any other herb along with calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and vitamin A, C, D, and K, Nettle is a popular herb among pregnant women. It can be particularly beneficial for reducing leg cramps and other muscle spasms because of its high calcium content. The vitamins in nettle can increase the iron in one’s blood and reduce risks of hemorrhage. They also can strengthen the blood vessels, which reduces the risk of hemorrhoids and increases the amount of breast milk a mother produces. 

Spearmint

This common herb contains many properties that can contribute to our overall health on a regular basis. Spearmint can help to regulate one’s body temperature, lubricate joints, prevent infections, deliver nutrients to cells, and help maintain organ function. It can also act as a digestive and antiviral that is safe for pregnant women to consume.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The Cincinnati Birth Center recently opened our online shop, supplying expectant mothers with a range of products to support them during pregnancy. Our Potent Pregnancy Tea is the perfect blend of red raspberry leaf, nettles, alfalfa, oatstraw, and spearmint to boost nourishment before, during, and after pregnancy. Shop now and add this simple, delicious drink supplement to your shopping cart. 

Resources:

For additional information and references:

Weed, S. (1986) Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year. New York: Ash Tree Publishing.

Gladstar, R. (1993) Herbal Healing for Women. New York: Fireside.

Tierra, M. (1998) the Way of Herbs. New York: Pocket Books.

www.susunweed.com

http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/r/raspbe05.html

For red raspberry leaves: Meghan Nowland, www.morethanalive.com, or www.blessedherbs.com