22 Best Herbs for Postpartum
Learn the best herbs for postpartum for new moms to use for natural remedies for postpartum healing. These postpartum herbs help tons of postpartum women and can help you too!
Welcoming a new life into the world is a beautiful blessing, but it also comes with physical and emotional changes. Expect to experience transition, recovery, and adjustment during the postpartum period.
Thankfully, nature is abundant in herbal medicine that can provide gentle, yet effective support during postpartum healing and the recovery phase.
From natural ways to stop postpartum bleeding to easing postpartum pain to balancing hormones and aiding in recovery, these herbs for postpartum recovery offer a holistic approach to postpartum well-being.
So, here is your complete guide to some of the best herbs for postpartum that you can use for your natural herbal remedies to help with the healing process for postpartum mothers.
I am a certified birth and postpartum doula and trained herbalist, not a licensed medical doctor. The information shared on this website is based on my education, experience, and personal research, and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your health or the health of your baby—especially if you are pregnant, postpartum, have any medical conditions, or are taking medications. Any use of herbal remedies, natural products, or wellness practices discussed on this site is at your own discretion and risk. The content shared here is meant to support, not replace, the relationship you have with your trusted medical provider.
22 Herbs for Postpartum
Traditional medicine usually covers your pain and works as a “band-aid” at times. That’s why I went with herbal tinctures, essential oils, and plenty of herbal teas with my second birth and I recovered faster, had more energy levels, and didn’t need traditional pain management pills the doctor prescribed.
So here are my favorite herbs for postpartum care that I used and loved.
From herbs for postpartum hormones to help with bleeding, mood support, and more, these postpartum herbs are ones you will want in your postpartum recovery kit.
First thing first, be sure to only use organic herbs and other organic ingredients when possible to ensure you are giving your body exactly what it needs to help you heal.
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Yarrow (achillea millefolium)
Yarrow is recognized for its hemostatic properties, which are so valuable for postpartum wound healing. It may help reduce bleeding and promote the healing of any tears or wounds that occurred during childbirth.
It is one of my favorite herbs for postpartum healing! It is also one of the antihemorrhagic herbs so it will also help with postpartum bleeding as well.
Yarrow can be used topically in compresses or added to herbal sitz baths for its soothing effects. I always add this to my herbal baths, but it works wonders for a postpartum bath.
Calendula (calendula officinalis)
Calendula, renowned for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, can be applied topically to aid in healing perineal discomfort.
Calendula is a gentle and amazing herb that promotes skin healing. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it suitable for treating the perineal area or any skin irritations postpartum.
It also is a great herb for a belly lotion to help with your stretch marks and c-section scars too. I make calendula infused oil, but I also use it in my herb baths to support the healing of sensitive areas.
Comfrey (symphytum officinale)
Comfrey, often referred to as “knit-bone,” supports tissue repair and can be used externally in salves or infused oils to promote healing of any tears or incisions.
In the postpartum period, comfrey root can be applied topically to support the healing of perineal tears and episiotomies. However, internal use should be avoided.
I include it in my postpartum sitz bath. I draw a shallow bath with Epsom salts, along with yarrow, calendula, and comfrey.
Red Raspberry Leaf (rubus idaeus)
One of the herbs to shrink uterus after birth is Red Raspberry Leaf.
Red raspberry leaf, when consumed as a tea, is believed to tone the uterus and support the reproductive system. Many use red raspberry leaf in their postpartum teas.
Known for its uterine-toning properties, red raspberry leaf has been used for generations to support women during and after pregnancy.
Rich in essential nutrients like iron and calcium, it helps replenish the body and may aid in postpartum recovery. Its astringent qualities can also assist in toning the pelvic muscles.
It is also one of the herbs for childbirth and the best tea for postpartum.
Nettle (urtica dioica)
Nettle is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It is believed to support the body in replenishing lost nutrients during childbirth.
Nettle tea is a popular choice, known for its potential to boost energy levels and promote overall well-being, including the immune system.
New mamas will definitely want to include nettle in their postpartum tea recipe!
Chamomile (matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomile is known for its calming properties, making it an excellent choice for new mothers dealing with stress or anxiety.
Whether enjoyed as a soothing tea or incorporated into bath rituals, chamomile can help promote relaxation and support a healthy sleep routine during the postpartum period.
Incorporating herbs into your postpartum self-care routine, such as enjoying a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime, can create a soothing ritual that promotes emotional well-being.
I love to drink chamomile tea right before bedtime as it is also good for the digestive tract too!
It is a great mental support essential for postpartum recovery.
Lavender (lavandula)
Lavender flowers can help with your nervous system and is one of the most popular herbs for calming your mind and body down.
Navigating the emotional landscape of new motherhood can be both rewarding and challenging.
Lavender offers calming properties that can provide a calming effect during moments of stress or anxiety.
It is a great fresh herb to have around the house as the smell alone can help new mothers. It can also help with pain and skin issues too. It’s a powerhouse herb I never run out of in my house!
Arnica (arnica montana)
Arnica, often used topically as an oil or cream, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is also used to alleviate swelling and bruising.
For postpartum mothers, arnica can be beneficial in reducing inflammation in the perineal area and assisting in the healing process.
Make an arnica salve and enjoy how good your body feels! I love it for aches and pains.
Ginger (zingiber officinale)
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can be beneficial for postpartum recovery, especially if there were any tears or inflammation during childbirth. It can be consumed as a tea or added to meals for its warming and soothing effects.
It’s another great herb for digestive issues or for pregnancy and postpartum nausea relief.
Witch Hazel (hamamelis virginiana)
Witch hazel is known for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used topically to soothe and reduce swelling in the perineal area. Witch hazel pads (like these) or compresses are commonly recommended to a new parent to alleviate discomfort.
I use the liquid witch hazel for my postpartum padsicles! Sometimes it is nice in a peri bottle to spray your perineal to help it feel better.
Rose Petals (rosa spp.)
Rose petals have a calming and uplifting aroma, making them a delightful addition to postpartum rituals. In addition to their aromatic benefits, rose petals are known for their mild astringency, which can be soothing for the skin.
Incorporating rose petals into baths or as part of herbal teas adds a touch of comfort to the postpartum experience.
Shepherd’s Purse (capsella bursa-pastoris)
Organic Shepherd’s Purse is traditionally used for its hemostatic properties, which can help control bleeding. For postpartum mothers experiencing prolonged or heavy bleeding, shepherd’s purse tea may offer support. As always, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Check out these amazing natural postpartum diapers to help with your bleeding.
St. John’s Wort (hypericum perforatum)
St. John’s Wort is well-known for its mood-balancing properties. It may be beneficial for postpartum mothers dealing with mood swings or mild depression.
However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if the mother is breastfeeding or taking medications.
One of the best herbs for postpartum depression is St. John’s Wort. It is one of the best natural remedies for baby blues and postpartum mood support.
Holy Basil (ocimum sanctum)
Holy basil, or Tulsi, is revered for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body adapt to stress. For postpartum mothers managing the challenges of a new routine, incorporating holy basil tea may provide support for overall well-being.
It is used a lot in traditional Chinese medicine for natural health after birth and for mothers.
Lemon Balm (melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm is known for its calming effects and may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Postpartum mothers can benefit from the soothing properties of lemon balm tea, helping to ease stress and improve sleep quality.
Moringa Leaves (moringa oleifera)
Moringa is a nutrient-dense herb, rich in vitamins and minerals. It can be particularly beneficial for postpartum mothers looking to replenish essential nutrients after childbirth. Moringa leaves can be incorporated into smoothies or consumed as a tea for added nutritional support.
It is very similar to Nettle!
Ashwagandha (withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb known for its ability to help the body adapt to stress. For postpartum mothers managing the physical and emotional demands of new motherhood, ashwagandha may offer support in promoting overall resilience and well-being.
I love using this adaptogenic herb for my postpartum anxiety disorder. You can take it as a tea, herbal tincture, or a capsule.
Motherwort (leonurus cardiaca)
As the name suggests, motherwort has traditionally been used to support mothers in various stages, including postpartum.
This herb is believed to have calming effects on the nervous system, helping to alleviate anxiety and stress. It’s also thought to promote uterine health and aid in toning the reproductive organs.
Fenugreek (trigonella foenum-graecum)
Fenugreek is a galactagogue, meaning it may support lactation by stimulating breast milk production.
For breastfeeding mothers, incorporating fenugreek into their diet or as a supplement might help ensure an ample milk supply.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or lactation consultant before adding new supplements, especially while breastfeeding. But, it is one of the best herbs for breastfeeding to enjoy!
Shatavari (asparagus racemosus)
A revered herb in Ayurvedic medicine, shatavari is known for its hormone-balancing properties. It may help regulate hormonal fluctuations during the postpartum period, promoting overall well-being. Shatavari is also believed to support lactation and aid in postpartum recovery.
Dandelion (taraxacum officinale)
Dandelion is valued for its diuretic properties, which can help reduce water retention—common during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, including potassium, which supports overall hydration and helps balance electrolytes.
Dandelion is also a very good herb to help with liver detox. All the excess hormones are stored in the liver, so using Earthley’s Postpartum Balance, which has dandelion and all sorts of other great herbs for the liver, your hormones can be balanced once again and really help during the 4th trimester.
Herbs for Postpartum Healing FAQs
How can I heal my postpartum naturally?
A lot of the time, you can heal with natural remedies for postpartum. There are tons of great herbs and essential oils for the postpartum period that can help your body naturally. I used many of these herbs after giving birth and it was wonderful!
What herbs are good for new mothers?
If I had to choose just a couple of postpartum herbs, I would say yarrow, calendula, red raspberry leaf, nettle, and arnica are the best herbs for new mothers.
What herbs to drink after giving birth?
You will definitely want to drink red raspberry leaf to help your uterus. Chamomile tea is great along with fenugreek for milk production.
What herbs help with postnatal depletion?
Nettle leaf and moringa leaves are powerhouse herbs filled with minerals and vitamins that really help with postnatal depletion!
Final Thoughts
As you embark on the incredible journey of postpartum recovery and motherhood, consider the powerful support that herbs can offer.
From alleviating postpartum pain to promoting hormonal balance and emotional well-being, these botanical allies provide a gentle and natural approach to enhancing your overall postpartum experience.
By incorporating healing herbs into your routine, you’re not only caring for your physical body but also nourishing your emotional and spiritual well-being during this transformative time.
Remember to consult with your health care provider before introducing new herbs into your routine, especially if you’re breastfeeding or taking other medications.
With these herbs for postpartum, you can navigate the postpartum period with greater ease and grace, embracing the healing power of herbs every step of the way.
If you ever find yourself wanting extra support during your pregnancy, birth, or postpartum journey, I’m here to walk alongside you through my virtual doula services — offering encouragement, guidance, and a listening ear whenever you need it.
