Our Top 5 Herbs for Postpartum Healing

Here at HPC, we strongly believe that we can find medicine in nature. Therefore, we use herbs and herbal remedies to support a new mother’s physical, emotional, and mental health during her sacred postpartum window. Although there are many herbs that are supportive at this time, we (painstakingly!) chose 5 herbs that we regularly use and that every new mama will want to have ready for her Fourth Trimester.

  1. Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettle is a nutrient-rich herb that can be highly beneficial for postpartum women. It provides essential vitamins, minerals (including iron and calcium), and anti-inflammatory properties that support postpartum recovery and tissue healing. As a galactagogue, nettle also aids in stimulating milk production for breastfeeding mothers. Its gentle diuretic effects can help reduce water retention, while its nervine tonic properties promote emotional well-being during the adjustment period.

There are so many ways to incorporate nettle into your postpartum diet. You can simply drink it as a tea, take it as a tincture, or prepare it with food. Our favorite way to incorporate it is to whip it up into a pesto. You can enjoy this as a dip, incorporate it into soups, or consume any way you typically enjoy pesto. 

 

2. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb (an herb that helps our bodies manage stress) that has been used for centuries and is renowned for relieving stress and anxiety. It can also reduce inflammation and help regulate the immune system. It can also help with sleep, and therefore higher energy levels during the day. In Ayurveda, it is considered a Rasayana, a term used to describe substances that promote longevity and rejuvenation. 

Ashwagandha comes in tincture, capsule, or powder form. We like to add the powder to warm spiced milk tonics or simply with warm water. To experience the benefits of ashwagandha, it's essential to take it consistently as part of your postpartum wellness routine. 

3. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender can be a valuable herb for postpartum healing due to its calming and soothing properties. It can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and can help improve sleep quality. Lavender's aroma has the potential to positively influence mood and emotional balance, making it a helpful tool for managing mood swings and promoting a sense of well-being. Known for its antimicrobial properties, lavender can also assist in wound healing, especially for any perineal tears or incisions from childbirth. 

We incorporate lavender into almost every herbal blend we use with new mothers. Lavender can be incorporated in herbs for yoni steams, sitz baths, or herbal baths.  Occasionally we serve it as a tea. Many new mothers like to enjoy it as an essential oil and use it in a diffuser, dropped into a bath, or as a compress for perineum soothing.

 

4. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula can be beneficial for postpartum healing due to its various properties that support recovery and soothing of the body after childbirth. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can aid in wound healing and help reduce inflammation in swollen or sensitive areas of the body. Calendula's bright and cheerful flowers have a positive impact on emotional well-being, helping to uplift the spirits balancing hormones

We love adding calendula flowers into an herbal bath, sitz bath, or  yoni steam to help cleanse and soothe the perineum. Calendula infused oils can be used for mother or baby massage. For breastfeeding mothers, sore and cracked nipples are not uncommon and calendula-infused creams or ointments can provide relief and comfort to the tender skin. Calendula tincture can be added to your peri-bottle or used to support the healing of the umbilical cord.

 

5. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

Shatavari root is a popular herb in Ayurveda, known for its benefits for women's health, including for postpartum care. It is considered to be a rejuvenating and nourishing herb that supports the female reproductive and hormonal system. It’s also an incredible herb we recommend for supporting breastfeeding and increasing milk supply.

Shatavari ghee is a traditional preparation where shatavari is infused in ghee. It can be used as a spread or added to warm foods or beverages. Shatavari is also available in powdered form. You can mix the powder with warm milk or water, or even better into your chai to create a nourishing tonic. Alternatively, you can add some into your oatmeal, soups, stews, or even ojas balls.  

*This is not to be taken as medical advice. Your healthcare provider can assess your individual health needs, medical history, and any potential interactions with other medications or supplements you may be taking.

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Postpartum Traditions Around the World