There’s something about herbal remedies that feels like coming home. Maybe it’s because they’re gentle yet powerful, working with the body rather than against it. Or maybe it’s because they connect us to generations of women before us—mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers who knew how to nourish their bodies with provisions from the earth.
I can still remember walking through my Mimi’s garden as a little girl, running my hands over the herbs she grew with such care. She would pluck leaves, crush them between her fingers, and tell me their names—rosemary, sage, mint, lemon balm. At the time, I didn’t fully understand the wisdom she was passing down, but looking back, I see how those moments planted the first seeds of my love for herbalism.
Years later, when I became a mother, those seeds began to bloom. I found myself drawn to the same plants Mimi once tended, searching for natural ways to care for my body and my baby. Herbs became my first line of support—not just for everyday ailments, but for the deeper, cyclical needs of womanhood. From the rhythms of menstruation to the sacred journey of pregnancy and postpartum, these plants have become trusted allies.
Herbs for Hormonal Balance & Menstrual Health
The rhythm of a woman’s cycle is delicate, influenced by stress, diet, and even the seasons. Instead of forcing the body into submission with the synthetic hormones from birth control, these herbs nourish and restore balance, easing discomfort and strengthening reproductive health.
Raspberry Leaf was one of the first herbs I ever fell in love with. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals—especially iron, which is crucial during menstruation. It also tones the uterus, helping to reduce heavy bleeding and cramping. I drink it regularly and always feel stronger because of it.
Vitex (Chasteberry) is a slow-working but powerful herb for hormone balance. It encourages progesterone production, making it helpful for irregular cycles, PMS, and fertility support.
Dong Quai is deeply nourishing to the reproductive system, increasing circulation to the pelvic area and easing menstrual pain. It’s often called the “female ginseng” for its ability to restore strength and vitality.
Herbs for Pregnancy & Birth Preparation
When I was pregnant with Samson, I became even more aware of what I was putting into my body. I wanted everything I consumed to be nourishing—not just for me, but for the little life growing inside me. These herbs are some of the safest and most beneficial for pregnancy.
Nettle quickly became a staple. It is rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium, making it wonderful for pregnancy. It helps strengthen the blood, supports kidney function, and reduces swelling. I made strong infusions and drank them often, knowing they were replenishing my body.
Red Raspberry Leaf is another pregnancy must-have. It strengthens the uterus, helping to prepare for birth. Many midwives recommend drinking it daily in the third trimester for a smoother labor.
Oatstraw is calming and deeply nourishing. It supports the nervous system, eases stress, and even helps with restless legs—something I struggled with during pregnancy.
Herbs for Postpartum Recovery
The postpartum period is sacred, yet so often overlooked. In those early weeks, a mother’s body is healing, her hormones are drastically shifting, and her heart is adjusting to a new rhythm. I learned quickly that when a mother is well-nourished, she can better care for her child. These herbs have helped me through my own postpartum season, offering both physical and emotional support.
Motherwort was a lifeline for me postpartum. They call it the “mother’s herb” for a reason—it soothes anxiety, eases hormone fluctuation, and even helps with the occasional heart palpitations that can come after birth.
Calendula is gentle and healing. I used it in sitz baths, infused oils, and even diaper balms for Samson. It’s wonderful for perineal healing, sore nipples, and C-section scars.
Ashwagandha helped rebuild my energy levels when I was running on little sleep. It’s an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress—something every new mother needs.
Herbs for Long-Term Women’s Health
Women’s health doesn’t stop at childbearing. Our bodies continue to change and need support as we move into new seasons. These herbs have been a steady presence in my life, helping me stay balanced and nourished.
Shatavari is known as the ultimate female tonic in Ayurvedic medicine. It supports hormone balance, energy levels, and libido.
Mugwort has a long history of being used for menstrual irregularities. It gently encourages delayed cycles and is also known for its connection to dreams and intuition.
Lemon Balm is a favorite of mine when life feels overwhelming. It calms the nervous system, supports digestion, and brings a sense of peace—something I think all women need more of.
NORA Tea: A Daily Tonic for Women’s Health
One of the easiest ways to incorporate herbs into daily life is by drinking NORA Tea—a simple but powerful blend of Nettle, Oatstraw, Red Raspberry Leaf, and Alfalfa. This blend is deeply mineral-rich and provides essential nutrients for every stage of womanhood. You can find this nourishing blend available for purchase at Balance and Bloom as the Daily Mineral Infusion, or you can make your own using the recipe below.
NORA Tea Recipe
1 part Nettle
1 part Oatstraw
1 part Red Raspberry Leaf
1 part Alfalfa
For a long and more potent infusion, add ¼ cup of herbs to 4 cups of boiling water. Cover and let steep overnight. In the morning, strain and sip throughout the day. You can add honey to sweeten or ice on a hot day.
For a short infusion, add 1 tablespoon of the herb blend to 1 cup of boiling water. Cover and let steep for 15-20 minutes.
This tea is incredibly nourishing, supporting everything from hormone balance to bone strength. I’ve made it a part of my daily routine, and I always feel stronger when I’m drinking it regularly.
Returning to the Wisdom of Nature
Looking back, I can see how much my Mimi’s garden shaped the way I live today. She probably never imagined that the simple act of growing herbs would plant a love for natural healing in her granddaughter, but here I am, passing that same wisdom down to my son.
I truly believe that God gave us everything we need in nature. These herbs have been a gift in my own life, and I pray they will be in yours too. If you’re just starting out, pick one that speaks to you and begin incorporating it into your daily rhythm. Over time, you’ll come to know these plants like old friends.
