The postpartum herbal bath is wonderfully healing for both mom and baby. The recommended herbs have astringent and antiseptic properties which soothe and heal sore bottoms, help dry up the baby’s cord stump, and prevent infections. You and your baby can take a minimum of one bath per day for the first five days postpartum. If you have stitches or any lacerations, you may want to take two baths per day for two to three weeks, or until healing is complete. Hydrotherapy on its own is widely recommended for pain relief; add the herbs and you speed the healing process.
* Calendula flowers (1/4 pound)
* Comfrey leaves (1/4 pound)
* Lavender flowers (1/4 pound)
Combine the herbs and store in an airtight container in a cool, dark cupboard. Boil approximately a gallon of water or just use a large stock pot. Once the water boils, turn off the heat and add a large handful of each herb (children love to help with this part). Cover and let steep for at least one hour (longer is better). When ready, pour the herb water directly into the bath water through a strainer and discard the herbs. Your herb bath can be made in early labor so that it will be nice and strong when you’re ready for it. The mixture can sit at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If not used within 24 hours, strain out the herbs and refrigerator the fluid. It will keep for 2-3 days. You can brew up the next batch just after the current bath. Then, whenever you’re ready for the bath, it’s ready for you!
It’s a good idea to have a helper if you are bringing your baby into the bath. Mom can get in first while the bath is hot and then bring baby in once it cools down a bit. Most newborns love the bath but will startle when first brought in. Have your helper hand the baby to mom and simply support the baby’s head with both hands, allowing the body to immerse and float between your legs. Watch your baby relax and unfold as they settle in. Enjoy!
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