by Rosetta Thuresson, Dip. H, www.mamarosesnaturals.com
An herb is a plant, or portion of a plant, which is valued for its medicinal, savory, or aromatic qualities. The parts of herbs that contain such beneficial nutritive and medicinal properties include leaves, stems, flowers, seeds, berries, roots, and bark. The beneficial and medicinal constituents of herbs can be acquired by ingestion, absorption through the skin, or inhaled aromatherapeutically. Herbs are a form of foundation nutrients and serve as a good alternate medicine to nourish the body’s deepest and most basic elements.
Herbs can be seen as the ‘original food,’ containing all the essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements required by the body. The benefits of herbs can be obtained through everyday basic foods, such as oatmeal, barley, garlic, onions, alfalfa sprouts, asparagus, carrots, artichokes, nuts, pumpkin and sesame seeds, honey, or the fresh leaves of dandelions, parsley, dill, or nettles. Plants used for both nutritional and medicinal purposes are more in harmony with the natural, physiological rhythms of the body than the orientation of pills, vaccines, or other synthetic substances causing instant relief of symptoms. It is simple and enjoyable to use herbs that provide us with a harvest of color, scent, and flavor in addition to their many beneficial qualities. By having a respect and appreciation for the healing potential within each plant, one is better able to connect the energy that is present within each herb to our natural internal wisdom.
Herbal teas and tonics indicated for pregnancy are more effective when used regularly, although the occasional use of herbs during pregnancy may also be beneficial since herbs do contain nourishing factors. They should be used as fresh as possible, and handled and stored caringly in a dark, cool place. Herbs can be used during pregnancy in various ways. Some herbs can be taken internally in a tea or tincture form during pregnancy to help symptoms such as morning sickness, nausea, heartburn, and digestive problems, as well as to help the body and the uterus to prepare for birth. Herbs can also be very useful during labor, and after birth to help the body in postnatal recovery, to prevent emotional imbalance and postpartum depression, and to promote healthy milk production.
Herbs help us to connect with the natural world, and what a more wonderful time than when expecting a baby. Late pregnancy tonics have been historically used to relax, tone, and prepare the uterus and the body for labor. There are several herbs that are commonly used for the purpose of easing labor, with the hope of a less prolonged or painful birth experience, as well as a rapid recovery. When possible it is a good practice to use herbs before becoming pregnant to familiarize the body with them, and to continue their use regularly throughout pregnancy. There are several nutritive herbs that have been used by midwives and birth workers for centuries to assist the body, mind, and spirit through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care.
Taking herbs can be a lot like exercising, the right amount under good conditions can be extremely healthful and rewarding, however under the wrong conditions can be detrimental. There are many herbs that should be completely avoided during pregnancy. Other herbs that can be used extremely effectively for promoting a positive birth experience can have contraindications during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Some birth tonic herbs are not safe to use in early pregnancy because they are known to stimulate the uterine muscles, potentially leading to miscarriage. While pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important to use only herbs that are safe while the baby is in fragile developmental stages.
Birth Ecology, 