Herbs To Induce Labor

You can use herbs to induce labor, but overall research shows that herbs can help prepare your body for the birth, and help once you are in labor, but not actually start contractions. You shouldn't try to induce labor before you are 40 weeks pregnant.

Either way you must consult your midwife or doctor before using herbs while you are pregnant, and don't use herbs in your first trimester. You should always prepare herbs in the correct manner and refer to instructions for correct quantities of the herb that you are taking. Better still, go to a qualified herbal practitioner. Herbs can be dangerous if taken in the wrong quantities!

Herbs to induce labor - Blue Cohosh & Black Cohosh

Blue Cohosh also known as papoose root, is mainly used to strengthen uterine contractions not to actually induce labor or start contractions.

Black cohosh also known as snakeroot, can be used to regulate contractions. Used together these 2 herbs can help to make contractions more effective.

Herbs to induce labor - Red Raspberry leaf tea

This is another one of the herbs to induce labor up for debate. Some people claim that it will in fact start labor, others declare that it won't. One thing that most experts tend to agree on is that red raspberry leaf can help to tone the uterine and pelvic muscles. In theory exercising the muscles you will need to help push your baby out during childbirth. After the birth of your baby it can also help the uterus return to its normal size.

Evening primrose oil to induce labor

Again, not really successful in starting labor, but can be helpful to ripen the cervix ready for birth. It can be taken orally from 34 weeks, or the whole capsule inserted into the vagina at bedtime from 36 weeks. You could also break open the capsule and rub the oil directly onto your cervix. Again, do discuss this with your midwife or doctor first.

Other herbs for trying to induce labor

There are other herbs which can be used to try and induce labor, or speed up time spent in labor. Squaw vine, Cramp bark, False unicorn root, Motherwort to name a few. If you do intend to research these further then head off to your local qualified herbal practitioner, they will know what's safe and what's not safe. Do not take any risks with your baby!

Other ways to naturally induce labor

There are many other ways to try and induce labor, take a look at some here. Or you could dive straight in and try using acupressure. This is the main method that I would recommend as it seems to be the method with the most successful feedback.

Pressure points around the body, when massaged or manipulated in the correct way can help to start contractions. Once labor has started different points can be used to strengthen contractions and ease pain. All in all, better than messing around with herbs to induce labor. Read about Maternity acupressure here.

Always remember that you need to be 40 weeks or overdue before trying to induce labor with any method.

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