Holistic birthing and prenatal care are focused on incorporating the essential aspects of the mind, body, and spirit to help you achieve an overall well-being and a happy, healthy, and successful natural birth. To facilitate this, many women turn to the natural power of herbs to ease symptoms of discomfort during pregnancy and labor.

By working with a certified nurse, midwife, or herbalist, you can reap the benefits of natural remedies that are safe and effective, while protecting your baby from the harsh and potentially dangerous effects of many pharmaceuticals. Here are some of the herbs most commonly used in pregnancy to promote a holistic approach to childbirth.

The Top 4 Herbs That Promote Holistic Birthing & Pregnancy

1. Peppermint Leaf

This herb has many beneficial effects on the digestive system. Peppermint leaf tea is a favorite among pregnant women to treat nausea, vomiting, and gas. Two to three cups per day are safe during all the trimesters. If you suffer from morning sickness, chewing directly on a peppermint leaf can help stave off nausea before it takes hold. The smell of peppermint is also touted as a way to improve your mood and boost energy, so keep a few sprigs on hand for when you need a quick pick-me-up.

2. Echinacea

Echinacea supports the immune system, giving you extra resistance to common viruses and bacteria. The stress of pregnancy can take a toll on your health, so getting this extra help from an herb is a great way to protect yourself. It’s considered one of the safest herbs in pregnancy, and it can be consumed as a tea or taken as a pill or tincture.

3. Chamomile 

If you’ve ever had trouble falling asleep, chances are someone’s told you to try chamomile tea. That’s because it’s very effective in promoting relaxation and easing stress. Holistic birthing requires a calm mind and restful spirit, and drinking chamomile tea can help you achieve these. In addition to its relaxation benefits, chamomile is also effective in treating fever, reducing pain and inflammation, and decreasing digestive problems.

4. Red Raspberry Leaf

Perhaps the most popular herb in pregnancy, red raspberry leaf has a wide range of benefits, from uterine toning and cramp reduction to the promotion of labor. The benefits may vary from trimester to trimester, so it’s especially important to ask a professional who is knowledgeable in herbalism whether it’s appropriate for you.

If your goal is a natural home birth achieved through a holistic pregnancy, turn to Home Birth With Love in Suffern, NY. This midwifery practice is dedicated to providing compassionate, safe, and personalized care to all women, so they can meet their birth goals and deliver the healthiest baby possible. To find out more about holistic birthing, visit their website or call (845) 641-5058.