8 Herbs for Postpartum Anxiety - Safe while Breastfeeding
Herbs for Postpartum Anxiety
Today, we’re talking about herbs that can help relieve stress a key topic in my online course, The Present Momma.
While nervines are great for calming the nervous system, they’re just one part of the puzzle. You may have tried herbs like chamomile or valerian root and found they didn’t help, or even made your stress worse.
Why?
We often overlook adaptogens, which work alongside nervines to provide deeper stress relief and prevent burnout.
Nervines: Calming Herbs for the Nervous System
Nervines come in varying levels of potency:
Mild Nervines: Chamomile is the gentlest option, even safe for newborns.
Stronger Nervines: Herbs like valerian root and kava kava are more potent but need caution. For example, kava kava is not safe while breastfeeding.
Your postnatal anxiety plan should have a combination of adaptogens and nervines to calm your nervous system. Here are my favorite botanicals below.
Adaptogens support your body in adapting to stress and are essential alongside nervines. Two safe adaptogens for breastfeeding mothers are:
1. Ashwagandha:
A Level 1 adaptogen, safe for breastfeeding.
Available in tincture (alcohol or glycerin-based), powder, or supplement forms.
Typical dosage: 20 drops of tincture in ¼ cup of water.
2. Reishi Mushroom:
Known for boosting immunity and calming the heart.
Especially helpful if you get sick frequently or feel unwell before your period.
Can be consumed as a powder (e.g., added to coffee) or as a tincture.
This blend combines nervines with adaptogens for a nourishing, calming effect.
3. Milky Oat Tops:
The #1 botanical for the nervous system.
Steep 2-3 teaspoons in boiling water for 4-8 hours to maximize benefits.
4. Stinging Nettles:
A powerful antihistamine, rich in vitamins and minerals.
Combine with milky oat tops for a long infusion.
5. Skullcap:
Packed with calcium, potassium, magnesium, and zinc.
Ideal for trauma or grief.
Add to your daily tea blend or take as a tincture.
6. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis):
Known as the "gladdening herb" for its uplifting effects.
Enjoy as a tea or tincture.
7. Motherwort:
Excellent for heart palpitations and calming panic attacks.
Best consumed as a tincture due to its bitter taste.
8. Lavender:
A gentle nervine that’s safe for babies and children.
Use sparingly in tea or as an essential oil (ensure no residue is left near the breast when breastfeeding).
Conclusion
Herbal medicine can offer significant comfort during the postpartum period. Here are my eight favorite botanicals that are safe to use while breastfeeding to help soothe the heart, ease palpitations, overwhelm, and pure exhaustion. Let me know if you try adding any of these botanicals and if they work for you.
xo
Tara
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