Herbalism offers new moms a powerful way to take control of their health and well-being, creating a deep connection to natural healing right in their own kitchens. By learning how to make their own remedies, moms can tap into centuries-old wisdom and empower themselves with safe, effective alternatives that support both their bodies and their babies. Whether it’s soothing a fussy tummy or easing postpartum discomfort, herbal remedies provide a nurturing, hands-on approach to motherhood.
For Mom
BLESSED THISTLE
Benefits- Blessed Thistle is an herb used to stimulate digestion and increase milk production.
Uses- Take it as a tea or tincture. Combine with other galactagogues like Goat’s Rue, Milk Thistle, Fennel, or Fenugreek, to support your milk supply.
ST. JOHN’S WORT
Benefits- This wonderful plant has been long respected as a treatment for depression. This is one of the primary remedies for postpartum depression. This plant supports and nourishes the nervous system, and aids in the reduction of anxiety.
Uses- Take a tincture of St John’s Wort and Motherwort daily to support your mood and nourish your nervous system.
For Baby
ANISE
Benefits- Anise is a versatile and well-known herb that is also delicious and palatable for most children. Anise is primarily used as a warming digestive aid. It can help expel gas, treat urinary infections, and expel mucus in respiratory infections.
Uses- Use tea for cholic and other digestive issues. Add it to other herbs to make them tastier.
CATNIP
Benefits- Not just for cats! Catnip is a powerful nervine which means it works to calm the nervous system and relieve all manners of stress for mom and baby. It can also help relieve digestive issues as there are more nerve cells in your gut than anywhere else outside of your brain!
Uses- Catnip is a bitter herb so you can mix it with a fruit juice or honey to make it more palatable. Soak a rag in a catnip mixture, then freeze it and give it to your child to chew on to relieve teething pain. Offer a few drops of Catnip tincture before feeding or bedtime to reduce fussiness. This herb is also one of the best herbs to reduce a fever.
WHERE TO FIND HERBS
-Dancing Willow is a local shop in Durango, CO that carries bulk herbs as well as herbal blends.
-Mountain Rose is a bulk herb shop that carries quality herbs that you can purchase in large quantities to make your own teas and tinctures.
-WishGarden Herbs carries amazing tinctures for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and for kids!
-I have a small apothecary with herbs specifically for women’s reproductive health, moms, and babies. Reach out to order a custom tincture or tea.
Most of all, have fun and be creative, and listen to your body as you become a kitchen herbalist.
Jo Florence
Student midwife, doula, herbalist
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