wBabies and Botanicals- Herbal Acquaintance while Pregnancy

Getting pregnant when you plan to get pregnant is nothing less than a blessing. It’s the most exciting, unpredictable and happiest journey of a woman's life. Having said that, many young mothers can get overwhelmed by the knowledge, tips, advice and suggestions that come pouring in by, friends, family, relatives, websites, social media pages, WhatsApp messages and magazine articles. There is too much information out there but the credibility of it is not verified. The information available is extensive, covering each and every possible aspect from herbal supplements to best lactation supplements! While much of the information is authentic like avoiding alcohol, high-mercury seafood, cigarettes and large amounts of coffee, most of it is ignorable.

Herbs have been around for centuries and have successfully treated many diseases, illnesses and deficiencies before medications and prescription drugs came in. Likewise pregnant women used herbs to calm their nerves, nourish their bodies, prepare themselves for delivery, control nausea or use them as breastfeeding supplements. During the whole pregnancy, the little one inside takes everything he/she needs from our body, so if our body is deprived of certain nutrients the child will end up having none of those or if the nutrients are of low-quality or not readily available then the mother’s body will have to suffer. Natural herbs help in fulfilling that void and nourishes the body of the mother.

In this article I will guide you about the certain herbs that are great during pregnancy and some herbs must be avoided in order to have a safe pregnancy. This list is put together by herbalists that specialize in their field and have deep knowledge about each herb mentioned.

1.      Fennel

Fennel is a very sought-after herb that has various benefits for pregnant women as well as lactating mothers. It’s a quintessential herb that helps in relieving flatulence, which is fairly common in the second and third trimester of the pregnancy. It also helps in soothing the nerves, relaxing the muscles, bloating and cramping. Although fennel seeds are mainly known for its great digestive qualities, it also does a great job in reducing water retention and increasing milk supply. In Fact, one of the most effective and best lactation supplements that have fennel is them for sure.

2.      Nettle

Nettle is probably the holy grail of herbs; herbalists are in awe of its extensive range of benefits. Nettle is a wild herb and the most beneficial form of this plant is the stinging nettle. It’s loaded with vitamins and minerals that are extremely valuable to expecting mothers. It helps in increasing the energy levels of pregnant women, provides support to the respiratory tract, strengthens the musculoskeletal and lymphatic system and most importantly keeps the would-be-mothers fresh and full of vitality. The leaves of these herbs are jam packed with vitamin C and iron that can help in creating rich blood which many pregnant mothers lack during the course of the pregnancy.

3.      Milky Oats

Milky oats are best known for their calming properties for the mind and nervous system. Pregnant women go through a range of emotions, mood swings, irritable nerves and many other hormonal changes. One cup tea of milky oats can help in restoring the inner balance, promotes peaceful sleep, reinstates the energy and sustains a healthy heart. Milky oats are also rich in magnesium and calcium that are two essential nutrients for pregnant women’s body and the child itself.

4.      Chamomile

Probably the most well-known herb in today’s world due the popularity of chamomile teas and drinks. Chamomile boosts calming, relaxing and serene vibes and also promotes healthy digestion. For pregnant women this tea is a blessing as it helps in alleviating nausea, insomnia, acidity, bloating, flatulence, constipation, cramps and UTIs. Pregnant women can take one cup of chamomile tea after dinner and sleep peacefully at night and wake up with energy.

5.      Ginger

Ginger is a famous herb and spice that tantalizes the palette and is known for its powerful aroma in teas, gravies and other foods. For pregnant women, nausea or retching is a common problem especially during the first 4-15 weeks. Many studies have proven that ginger effectively and safely treats nausea and vomiting that is caused by pregnancy. Other than that, ginger teas also help with blood circulation, diarrhea and chills. You can have ginger freshly grated or you can have it in supplements or in the form of capsules.

6.      Lemon Balm

This herb tastes and smells like lemon but sweet in perception has a cooling, calming and refreshing taste. It’s a great and effective nervine that balances and soothes the nervous system, promotes peaceful sleep, supports the immune system and pacifies the digestive system. The leaves of this herb can be added to detox water, added in lemonade or lemon sorbet as well.

Summing it Up

Herbs are a great ally of pregnant women as they help them in various ways with little to no side effects. Herbal supplements, teas and drinks are getting popular with every passing day due to their natural properties, benefits and no side effects. So if you’re pregnant you must take a cup of chamomile tea with freshly grated ginger to soothe the nerves and promote healthy digestion.

 

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