The demands of pregnancy are particularly unique, as are this period of life. A nourishing herbal pregnancy tea blend can improve your wellbeing as well as the health and development of your unborn child in addition to a balanced, colorful diet and prenatal supplements.
In order to adequately nourish the body during this stage of change and, of course, for the developing miracle inside, the nutrient requirements are increased.
You can find some of the healthiest herbs to use while pregnant in this article, along with some safety tips and a recipe for a delicious and nutritious pregnancy tea.
Safety of Herbs During Pregnancy
There haven't been many clinical studies done yet, so little is known about the potential hazards even though using herbs during pregnancy may be softer and safer than using conventional medications.
Generally, many herbs have a strong safety record and a long track record of use.
A general recommendation is to completely avoid herbs during the first trimester of pregnancy, unless medically indicated (for example, nausea, threatened miscarriage, etc.), and then use moderate amounts of herbs that are known historically or scientifically to be safe during pregnancy for the second and third trimesters. Nettles (Urtica dioica), red raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus), echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), echinacea angustifolia, rose hips (Rosa spp.), and spearmint (Mentha spicata) are a few examples (Romm, 2014).
Yet, there are a lot of herbs that you shouldn't use at all.
They include emmenagogues—herbs that promote menstruation flow and frequently have a significant hormonal activity—as well as herbs with strong alkaloids or laxative effects.
When using herbs while pregnant, you should always seek the advice of a midwife and/or certified herbalist, especially when it comes to the recommended dosage for continuous usage.
What Herbs Make the Best Prenatal Tea Blend?
The following herbs have long been proven to be quite helpful during pregnancy. They can be used to create a pregnant tea or infusion to benefit from their nutrients and benefits.
Rhubarb Leaf (Rubus idaeus)
Native Americans in North America are the ones who first introduced the use of raspberry leaf during pregnancy (Wood, 2009). Today, one of the most popular plants for this particular occasion is raspberry leaf (Tobyn et al., 2016).
Due to its high vitamin and mineral content, it is regarded as a fantastic tonic for pregnant women on two counts. It is a good source of minerals such calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, selenium, and manganese as well as vitamins A, B, C, and E. (Gladstar, 1993; Pederson, 2010).
Second, the tonic qualities of raspberry leaf aid to fortify the uterus in preparation for birthing (Gladstar, 1993). Moreover, is employed to alleviate morning sickness and lower the danger of miscarriage (Wood, 2009). Using raspberry leaf as a parturient can make labor easier and lower the likelihood of heavy bleeding during delivery (Hoffmann, 2003). (Romm, 2018).
After delivery, a raspberry leaf infusion is used as a uterine tonic to aid in the expulsion of the placenta, to restore the flexibility of the womb and uterine ligaments, and as a galactagogue to boost the production of breastfeeding (Gladstar, 1993). (Berger, 1998).
Nettle (Urtica dioica) (Urtica dioica)
Nettle is a traditional nutritious herbal tonic that can be consumed or drunk on a regular basis. It is incredibly nourishing to the blood as well as the entire body, supporting and energizing it.
If you're feeling fatigued throughout pregnancy, the rich nourishment can relieve it and is an invigorating afternoon (or anytime) pick-me-up. Because nettle includes both hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic components, research shows that it can also aid to maintain stable blood sugar levels (Hoffmann, 2003).
Moreover, it can relieve urinary irritation and is tonic and strengthening to the kidneys, enhancing general vitality. This may be beneficial for pregnant women who are vulnerable to urinary tract infections (Holmes, 1997).
Oatstraw (Avena sativa) (Avena sativa)
The milky oat straw is abundant in minerals and trace nutrients, including protein, the vitamin B complex, vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as silica, magnesium, phosphorus, chromium, iron, calcium, and others, just like the other two herbs (Holmes, 1997; Berger, 1998; Edwards, 2000). In particular, oats' abundant vitamin B, calcium, and magnesium content supports and strengthens nerves. It is regarded as one of the best plant friends for "feeding" and replenishing the nervous system, especially under stressful situations, in cases of nervous system weakness, or in cases of mental tiredness (Hoffmann, 2003).
Spearmint (Mentha spicata) (Mentha spicata)
The ability of spearmint to calm the stomach, which is frequently needed during pregnancy, makes it a great choice for gently reducing gas and bloating (Cook, 1869; Frawley & Lad, 1988). The digestive tract's muscles can be relaxed by spearmint, which can also be used to reduce nausea and vomiting (Bove, 2001; Cook, 1869). It is frequently used in nourishing, mineral-rich teas and pairs deliciously with the other herbs mentioned above.
Recipe for Nourishing Pregnant Tea
You can increase your intake of iron, calcium, a variety of vitamins, and other trace elements by drinking this herbal pregnancy tea blend, which will keep you nourished throughout this unique period. This pregnant tea functions as a birthing drink as well.
Ingredients
Red raspberry leaf, 2 cups (Rubus idaeus)
2-cups of nettle leaves (Urtica dioica)
1 cup of oatmeal (Avena sativa)
14 cup of mint leaves (Mentha spicata)
Directions
Combine all the herbs, then keep them in an airtight jar in a cool, dark location.
Simply combine around 14 cup of the mixture with 1 liter of hot water to make your pregnant tea.
Give it at least 30 minutes to steep.
Strain, then savor!
To Use
This drink may be either hot or cold and is not only a fantastic source of nutrition for pregnant women but also for the entire family! In addition, it tastes particularly well as the foundation for a herbal lemonade when coupled with freshly squeezed lemon juice, which also promotes iron absorption.
Safety
During the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, as well as throughout delivery, it is okay to consume up to 4 cups of this tea blend each day. It is best to avoid using herbal remedies during the first trimester of pregnancy or to use them only under the guidance of a doctor, midwife, and/or certified herbalist.
Certain plants make amazing, nourishing supports for expectant mothers. We may provide the groundwork for a successful childbearing experience by combining exercise, a balanced diet and lifestyle, with a cheerful outlook and social support. During your pregnancy, sip on this tea or make this concoction for guests to enjoy! They will undoubtedly appreciate it!
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