Five Weeks Before Delivery 

5-W - A formula that gives elasticity to pelvic and vaginal areas, and generally strengthens the uterus for easier delivery. It stimulates braxton hicks (contractions which start labor) and helps ensure timely delivery. This formula includes Black Cohosh which stimulate the braxton hicks. While this herb, along with Dong Quai which is also included in the formula, should be avoided earlier in the pregnancy, they can be used in the final stages to help bring on labor (which is why they are avoided earlier). 
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Breastfeeding - A very important decision needs to be made before you deliver your baby! 

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Labor 

Black Cohosh - Introduced into the medical world in 1831 by Dr. Young, this herb was used as a cardiac tonic and for women's ailments, especially to calm false labor and stimulate true labor. 

Capsicum (or Cayenne) - Used for internal bleeding, a small amount at the beginning of labor was believed to prevent hemorrhages, as it contains Vitamin K. 

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Post-Natal 

Marshmallow - Increases and enriches mother's milk for nursing. Satisifies infant for longer periods. 

Marshmallow & Fenugreek - High in Vitamin A, calcium, oxygen, and zinc. Increases mother's milk. 

Parsley - Dries up mother's milk. 

Butcher's Broom - The Indians used this herb for varicose veins because it seems to have a 'sweeping' effect on buildup in the veins. Has been used to help bring the uterus to normal because of its drawing effect. 

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Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy 

Goldenseal, Rue, Tansy, Artemesia, Comfrey, Coltsfoot, Mandrake, Mistletoe, Pennyroyal, Poke Root, Black and Blue Cohosh, Motherwort, Yarrow, Senna, Cascara Sagrada, Buckthorn. Avoid any hormonal herbs such as Licorice, Dong Quai, and Ginseng. 

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Herbs for Children

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Nursing - Success Story 

"I'd been having a problem with a dwindling milk supply from the time my daughter was 4 months old. She was never satisfied. I purchased some MARSHMALLOW root (the herb!) to see if it would help when she was 6 months old. At first I took 1 capsule 3 times daily and it really helped. Every time she would nurse she would be more and more satisfied. Then at some point I slacked off. When she began not being satisfied again, I realized I hadn't taken it for awhile. I started taking 2 capsules 2 times daily and noticed a big difference in how long she nursed and that she was satisfied when finished and not screaming for more food. Now I take 2 a day and sometimes 4 if I haven't had a very good day nutritionally. I can always tell when I skip a day. Thank you for giving me the suggestion!" Tammy 

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Alternative Birth Control - Success Story 

"In reference to a previous newsletter on natural birth control, I want to share my knowledge of the Sympto-Thermal Method of Natural Family Planning (NFP). The way NFP works is by being aware of the fertility signals in a woman's body and using them to either conceive or postpone a pregnancy. It is 99% effective, just like the chemical methods of birth control. Hormonal changes in the woman's body produce measureable signs of fertility. There is an abstinence period for about a week. Believe it or not, this time turns out to be such a blessing. It forces the couple to communicate and to express their love in a non-sexual way. You end up having a time of "courtship" and anticipation, plus a honeymoon during every cycle. The percentage of divorce among couples practicing NFP is surprisingly low - only about 5%. 


Thanks to NFP, I confirmed that I had an underactive thyroid and corrected it naturally with herbs. I've corrected many small things during my cycle by learning what should be happening and what shouldn't. I've corrected excessive bleeding with herbs. 

It also, helps determine the baby's due date accurately. This can be important in some cases, especially for women with irregular cycles like me. With my third child, I had gestational diabetes and she was going to be induced on the due date. The due date given to me by the doctor was Aug. 5th. Because I knew when she was conceived and when she was due - Aug 28, I requested an ultrasound. The ultrasound confirmed my dates and that is the day she was born---without induction! NFP has forever changed our lives! We've changed the way we see children, the way we see each other, and the way we see God in our lives. I pray this will be of benefit to many more." Giselle A. 

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