The first three months after giving birth are known as the fourth trimester. It is a time when baby is getting used to being out of the womb and in the world. Just as we do our best to nourish our bodies during the first three trimesters, the fourth trimester is just as important. Nutrition is still going to be important, and adding some herbal teas can be very beneficial as well. These are my top picks for postpartum teas.
Red raspberry leaf. If you started drinking it through pregnancy (or even if you didn’t) it’s a great idea to keep drinking it. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and especially high amounts of vitamins C and E as well as calcium and iron, which is especially important after giving birth. It also helps some women increase their breast milk supply because of its naturally high mineral content.
Nettle tea. This is a wonderful restorative tea that helps get rid of new motherhood fatigue by boosting energy and even helping to calm anxiety. It has a deep, rich flavor that I think resembles the earthiness of coffee. It gets its dark color from green chlorophyll, which helps create rich blood and is said to strengthen vitality.
Lemon balm. One of my very favorite teas it is an antiviral, which can help keep you from getting sick but it is also a wonderful calming herb. It has a mild delicious flavor and you can drink it throughout the day to help calm your nerves or before bed to help you sleep. My favorite way to drink it is to make a large batch, mix it with some honey and store it in the fridge to drink cold.
Chamomile. Known as one of the best relaxation teas to help before bed it also serves many other purposes. In the same way as lemon balm you can drink it throughout the day to help reduce stress, tension and nervousness. It is also great to help reduce gas and bloating making it a great post meal beverage. Try mixing some chamomile leaves with lemon balm for an even more delicious tea.
Jacqueline Banks is a certified Holistic Health Counselor. She works with women in all stages of motherhood, from mothers struggling with conception to those trying to get their groove back after pregnancy to ensure the best health and nutrition for both mom and baby.
