The journey of motherhood doesn't end with childbirth—in many ways, it's just beginning.
The postpartum period, those precious weeks and months after your baby arrives, is a time of profound transformation, healing, and adjustment. While modern medicine offers valuable support during this transition, ancient wisdom reminds us that nature provides some of the gentlest, most effective remedies for nurturing new mothers back to strength.
Throughout history and across cultures, herbal teas have played a central role in postpartum recovery rituals. These soothing brews—crafted from leaves, flowers, and roots—carry centuries of maternal wisdom in each cup. Today, as more women seek natural approaches to complement conventional postpartum care, herbal teas are experiencing a well-deserved renaissance.
At Myrtle & Maude, we understand that what a new mother consumes during this sensitive time matters enormously—not just for her own healing but for her baby's wellbeing too. That's why we've collaborated with expert herbalists to formulate organic postpartum teas that honour traditional knowledge while meeting the highest standards of modern quality and safety. Our biodegradable tea bags (GMO-free, of course) contain only what your body needs—nothing it doesn't.
Whether you're navigating the physical recovery from birth, seeking to establish a healthy milk supply, or simply craving moments of calm amidst the beautiful chaos of new motherhood, the right herbal tea can be a simple yet powerful ally on your postpartum journey.
Let's explore how these remarkable plants can support your fourth trimester and beyond, one comforting cup at a time.
The weeks following childbirth demand extraordinary things from a woman's body. Your system is working to heal birth-related tissue, restore hormone balance, establish lactation, and adapt to disrupted sleep patterns—all while you're learning to care for your new little one. It's no wonder traditional postpartum care across cultures has emphasized rest, nourishment, and specific herbal remedies.
Herbal teas offer a gentle yet effective way to support multiple aspects of postpartum recovery:
1. Physical Healing Support
Certain herbs contain compounds with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and tissue-healing properties that can aid your body's natural recovery processes. Herbs like calendula, raspberry leaf, and nettle provide minerals and vitamins that support tissue repair while helping to reduce swelling and discomfort.
2. Hormone Balancing
The dramatic hormonal shifts that follow childbirth can affect everything from mood to energy levels. Adaptogenic herbs like holy basil (tulsi) and specific nervines (herbs that support the nervous system) such as lemon balm can help smooth these transitions, supporting emotional wellbeing during a vulnerable time.
3. Lactation Support
For breastfeeding mothers, maintaining a healthy milk supply is often a primary concern. Galactagogue herbs—those that support milk production—like fenugreek, fennel, and blessed thistle have been used for centuries to help nursing mothers nourish their babies.
4. Digestive Harmony
Postpartum digestive challenges are common, from constipation to gas. Carminative herbs like fennel seed, ginger, and chamomile can gently regulate digestion while easing discomfort.
5. Stress Reduction and Sleep Quality
Perhaps one of the most valuable benefits of herbal teas during postpartum is their ability to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. A well-timed cup of chamomile or lavender tea can help a new mother catch precious moments of rest when her baby sleeps.
The beauty of herbal teas lies in their holistic approach—they don't just target isolated symptoms but work with your body's natural processes to restore balance. Unlike many conventional medications, appropriate herbal teas can be consumed throughout the postpartum period without concerns about building dependence or experiencing harsh side effects.
Let's look more closely at some of the most beneficial herbs for new mothers, many of which we've thoughtfully included in Myrtle & Maude's Organic Postpartum Recovery Tea:
Raspberry Leaf
Long revered as the "woman's herb," raspberry leaf doesn't just shine during pregnancy—it continues to offer valuable support after birth. Rich in minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium, it helps tone the uterus, encouraging it to return to pre-pregnancy size. Its astringent properties can also help reduce excessive postpartum bleeding and discharge.
Nettle Leaf
This nutritional powerhouse is particularly valuable for new mothers who may be depleted after childbirth. Packed with iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, K, and B complex, nettle helps replenish vital nutrients while supporting overall recovery. Its mild diuretic effect can also help reduce postpartum swelling.
Fennel Seed
A superstar for nursing mothers, fennel contains compounds that mimic estrogen (oestrogen), potentially helping to increase milk production. As a bonus, the same compounds that support lactation can reduce digestive discomfort for both mother and baby when passed through breast milk, helping to ease colic and gas.
Fenugreek
Perhaps the most well-known galactagogue, fenugreek has been shown to increase milk production in many lactating women within 24-72 hours of starting regular consumption. Its slightly maple-like flavour blends well with other herbs, making it palatable despite its medicinal strength.
Lemon Balm
This fragrant member of the mint family brings gentle mood elevation and nervous system support—precious gifts for new mothers experiencing the "baby blues" or sleep deprivation. Its antiviral properties offer additional immune support during a time when a mother's defences might be lowered.
Chamomile
The ultimate calming herb, chamomile helps ease tension, promote sleep, and reduce inflammation. Its gentle nature makes it appropriate even for the most sensitive systems, while its pleasant taste makes it a joy to drink.
Blessed Thistle
Often paired with fenugreek for maximum lactation support, blessed thistle also aids digestion and can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Oat Straw
This nervous system tonic helps restore balance during times of stress and sleeplessness—exactly what many new mothers need. Rich in B vitamins and minerals, it nourishes the nervous system while gently boosting mood and energy.
When we developed our Organic Postpartum Recovery Tea at Myrtle & Maude, we didn't just throw together a few popular herbs. We approached the formulation with the same care and attention we'd want for ourselves and our loved ones during this precious, vulnerable time.
Our postpartum blend features a powerful combination of traditional healing herbs specifically selected for postpartum recovery:
This thoughtfully curated blend represents a perfect balance of traditional wisdom and contemporary research, formulated specifically to address the multiple challenges new mothers face after childbirth.
Our herbs work synergistically to:
What sets our blend apart is not just what we put in, but how we source and process each ingredient. Every herb in our Organic Postpartum Recovery Tea is certified organic, ensuring you're not introducing pesticides or other unwanted chemicals into your healing body or your breast milk.
We believe deeply in transparency and sustainability, which is why we use only biodegradable tea bags that are GMO-free. Each element of our product—from the herbs to the packaging—is chosen with both your wellbeing and our planet's health in mind.
Most importantly, our postpartum blend was formulated by experienced herbalists who specialise in women's reproductive health. These experts understand the delicate hormonal balances and nutritional needs of the postpartum period, ensuring that our tea truly supports your body's natural healing processes rather than interfering with them.
The way you prepare your herbal tea can significantly impact its therapeutic benefits. Here are our recommendations for getting the most from your Myrtle & Maude Postpartum Recovery Tea:
Perfect Brewing Technique
Optimal Consumption Schedule
For supporting recovery, consistency is key.
We generally recommend:
Enhancing Your Tea Experience
While our teas provide internal support for postpartum recovery, we understand that new mothers need multiple tools in their self-care toolkit. That's why we're proud to offer our Aromatherapy Nasal Inhaler specifically formulated for postpartum needs.
This convenient, portable aromatherapy solution delivers instant emotional support during those challenging moments of postpartum adjustment.
Our proprietary blend of essential oils helps:
Simply uncap, inhale deeply, and experience immediate aromatherapeutic benefits—all while keeping your hands free for baby cuddles. It's the perfect companion to your postpartum tea ritual, offering support that works through a different sensory pathway.
Fun Facts About Postpartum Healing
Did you know? The custom of "mother roasting"—keeping a new mother warm with heated stones, warm foods, and warming teas—is practiced across cultures from Latin America to Southeast Asia. Science now confirms these traditions have merit: warmth can improve circulation and speed healing after childbirth.
Source: Cited from The Journal of Perinatal Education, "Traditional Postpartum Practices and Rituals: A Qualitative Systematic Review" (2015)
Did you know? Your body produces around 800-1000 millilitres of breast milk daily when exclusively breastfeeding—that's about 3-4 cups! Staying properly hydrated with nutrient-rich liquids like herbal teas directly supports this impressive production.
Source: Cited from La Leche League International, "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding" (2010)
Q1: How long does complete postpartum recovery typically take?
A: While many women feel significantly recovered by 6-8 weeks postpartum (which is why this is often considered the traditional "fourth trimester"), complete physical recovery can take much longer—typically 6-12 months. Hormonal balance may take up to a year to fully normalise, especially for breastfeeding mothers. This is why continued self-care, including supportive measures like herbal teas, remains important well beyond the first few weeks after birth.
Q2: Can I start drinking postpartum tea immediately after giving birth?
A: Yes, most postpartum herbs are gentle enough to begin consuming right after delivery. In fact, many traditional midwives prepare the first cup while the mother is still in the birthing space. However, if you've had any complications or are taking medications, it's always wise to consult with your healthcare provider before adding herbal supplements to your routine.
Q3: Will postpartum teas help with postpartum hair loss?
A: Many new mothers experience hair loss around 3-6 months postpartum due to hormonal shifts. While no tea can completely prevent this natural process, the nutrient-rich herbs in quality postpartum blends—particularly those high in silica and other minerals like nettle—may help support healthy hair growth as your hormones rebalance.
Q4: Can Myrtle & Maude's Postpartum Tea be consumed alongside prescription medications?
A: While our tea contains only food-grade herbs that are generally compatible with normal postpartum care, we always recommend consulting your healthcare provider if you're taking any prescription medications. This is especially important if you're taking blood thinners, hormone-based medications, or antidepressants, as certain herbs may interact with these treatments.
The postpartum period deserves to be honoured as the significant life transition it truly is. In cultures around the world, traditional postpartum practices almost universally emphasise rest, warmth, nourishment, and community support. These aren't luxuries for a new mother—they're necessities for her healing and for her baby's wellbeing.
Incorporating supportive herbal teas into your daily routine is one simple yet powerful way to honour your postpartum journey. Each cup represents a moment of nourishment and self-care amidst the beautiful intensity of new motherhood. At Myrtle & Maude, we're honoured to be part of that journey, offering thoughtfully formulated, organic remedies that connect modern mothers with ancient wisdom.
Remember that healing isn't linear, and every mother's postpartum experience is unique. Listen to your body, seek support when needed, and be gentle with yourself as you navigate this profound transformation. Whether you're in those first hazy weeks with a newborn or months into your motherhood journey, it's never too late to embrace practices that support your recovery and wellbeing.
Here's to your health, your healing, and the extraordinary journey of motherhood—one nurturing cup at a time.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, midwife, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, particularly during the postpartum period. While herbal teas can be valuable complements to postpartum care, they should be part of a comprehensive approach that includes appropriate medical supervision. Individual responses to herbs vary, and what works well for one person may not be suitable for another. If you experience any adverse reactions while consuming herbal teas, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.