- Red Raspberry Leaf: the best known and quintessential herb for pregnancy. Brewed as a tea or as an infusion, it contains fragrine, an alkaloid, which gives tone to the muscles of the pelvis and uterus. The benefits of this toning action include: prevention of miscarriage and false labor, reduction of pain during and after birth, production of more effective contractions during labor and therefore a faster birth, and prevention of postpartum hemorrhage or bleeding. "...the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations." Revelation 22:2 KJVRed Raspberry is also a rich source of vitamins A, B complex, C, and E, as well as the minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients make it an excellent prevention and treatment for anemia and leg cramps, as well as a beneficial remedy for the reduction of morning sickness. The high mineral content also assists in the production of breast milk.*
- Spearmint: Relieves nausea, which is great for morning sickness; lifts spirits and renews energy.*
- Nettle: Strengthens and nourishes the body. The list of easily absorbable nutrients include: Vitamins A, C, D, and K, calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, protein, silica, and sulfur. Taken as a tea, these nutrients nourish the mother and fetus, prevent leg cramps and muscle spasms, decreases pain during labor, prevent hemorrhage, reduce hemorrhoids, rejuvenate the mother after birth, and increase the flow of mother’s milk. Nettles also can be used for the reduction of urinary tract infections and fluid retention, inflammation of the colon and diarrhea, and inflammation of the joints and skin. In addition, the tea may be cooled and applied as a soothing compress to the inflamed tissues of the perineum and rectum after childbirth.*
- Alfalfa: It’s high vitamin K content has been shown to help correct bleeding disorders by promoting the blood’s ability to clot, thus helping to prevent hemorrhage in childbirth.*
- Oatstraw: Strengthens the capillaries, thereby preventing or aiding varicose veins and hemorroids.*
- Rose Hips: The common red garden rose has long been a favorite of medicine. It is a good vitamin C supplement and will ease cramps. The vitamin C content makes it a good remedy to combat colds and influenza. An infusion of the petals is used for headaches, dizziness and as a blood purifier.*
- Fennel: Aids in the prevention of morning sickness; aids digestion, prevents heartburn; a natural diuretic.*
To be an effective labor tonic, drink at least 2 cups a day throughout your entire pregnancy, or drink at least 3-4 cups per day during the last 6 weeks of pregnancy. Adding extra Red Raspberry Leaf will only add to the uterine toning benefits.*
Preparation
"And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat,... and the leaf thereof for medicine." Ezekiel 47:12 KJV
Put 1-2 teaspoons of herb tea blend into a mug or a mesh tea infuser cup/pot, or a muslin drawstring bag works well to contain the loose leaves. Pour boiling water over. Let steep approximately 10-15 min. Pour loose leaf tea through a coffee filter to strain. Sweeten with sugar or honey, if desired.
For large batches: put ½ to 1 cup of mixed herbs into a gallon-size jar, (or use several muslin drawstring bags for easier clean-up). Pour boiling water over herbs and steep 15-30 minutes. When cool, strain the loose tea by pouring through a coffee-type filter. Refrigerate. Drink cold. Dispose of any excess after 4 days.
Makes a great iced tea for those warm summer days. Delicious as sun tea!
*NOTICE: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Please do your own investigation about the use of herbs during pregnancy. By purchasing and using these herbs, you accept all risks for any outcome.