Add the vegetables to the cooked rice and mung bean mixture and
cook twenty minutes longer . In a separate saucepan, sauté the seeds in the ghee until they pop. Then add the other spices. Stir together to release the flavors. Stir the sautéed spices into the cooked mung bean, rice, and
vegetable mixture. Add chopped fresh cilantro and salt to taste
(avoid salt until after three days postpartum in the case of swelling;
avoid cilantro until after two weeks postpartum). Steamed V eggies with T ahini Sauce
Steaming or boiling is the best way to have your veggies postpartum,
as these methods add liquidity that helps to balance the dry quality
of vata. I prefer steaming, as the veggies do not lose as many of the
nutrients into the water as they do when boiled. Any root vegetable
can be used in this recipe (besides white or red potatoes), as root
veggies are very grounding for a postpartum mama. Tahini (sesame
seed paste) is delicious and rich with calcium—a critical postpartum
nutrient, especially for nursing mamas. This veggie and tahini
combination is best served after two or three weeks postpartum. Ingredients
For the steamed veggies:
½ cup cubed yams
½ cup peeled, cubed beets
½ cup chopped fennel bulb
½ cup cubed zucchini or asparagusFor the tahini sauce:
⅓–½ cup tahini
½ small lime, juiced
2 bulbs roasted garlic
water as needed
salt and pepper , to taste
Instructions
Add suf ficient water to the steamer and insert the steamer basket,
making sure that the water is below the steamer basket. Place yam and beets into the steamer basket. Cover with lid, and
steam the root vegetables over medium heat for twenty to twenty-
five minutes. Add fennel and zucchini to the steamer basket and steam until all
vegetables are very soft. Separately , blend all ingredients for tahini sauce, adding water 1
tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches the desired consistency . Serve veggies topped with as much tahini sauce as desired. Sautéed and Stewed Apples
A cooked apple serves as a gentle daily cleanse for the digestive
system. It supports regularity , strengthens digestion, lowers acidity
and excessive hunger , boosts immunity to prevent most colds and
flus, and is a simple and delicious way to start the day . Apples are best eaten starting seven to ten days postpartum. Prior to that, stewed dried fruits that are rich in iron (such as raisins,
dates, and prunes) are recommended. You can follow this apple
recipe and substitute iron-rich fruits for the apples.Ingredients
1 large apple
1 tablespoon ghee
3–5 saf fron threads
1 teaspoon cardamom
3 cloves
½ teaspoon fennel seeds
3 soaked dates (optional)
3 soaked prunes (optional)
¼ cup water
Instructions
Peel the apple and cut it into bite-sized pieces. In a pan, add ghee with saf fron, cardamon, cloves, and fennel
seeds. Sauté the spices in the ghee for about two minutes to enhance flavor
and extract their medicinal potency . Add the apples, stirring them occasionally as you let them sauté for
three minutes. ( Optional:  sauté dates or soaked prunes along with
the apples.) Add ¼ cup of water and then cover until the apples are soft and
transparent. Tahini Cookies
Sesame is revered in Ayurveda as an ojas builder and breast milk
enhancer; its naturally balanced composition of qualities makes it a
tonic for increasing strength and immunity . High in healthy fats fromthe oily sesame seeds, tahini paste nourishes and strengthens
nervous, muscle, and fat tissue. Because tahini is also high in
calcium, it supports the maintenance of bone strength. Its earthy
quality and magnesium content help soothe and relax tension in the
muscles, allowing you to unwind after a period of stress. Enjoy these
tahini cookies throughout pregnancy . Resume this nutrient-filled treat
again after two weeks postpartum. Ingredients
1 cup tahini
2 cups oat flour
1 cup sucanat
2 tablespoons yogurt or apple sauce
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ginger powder
2 teaspoons black and white sesame
seeds, plus extra for topping
1 tablespoon shatavari powder (optional)
Instructions
Mix all ingredients together , adding one at a time in the order listed. Make little balls with the batter and gently flatten with a fork on a
greased cookie sheet, leaving space between. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for twelve to fourteen minutes and
let them cool completely .Mama Jill’ s Cookies
This is a delicious, nourishing cookie recipe from my sister ’s
husband’ s mama. Enjoy throughout pregnancy and after six weeks
postpartum. These cookies are the perfect ojas booster! My family uses
husked almond flour and ghee to nourish the tissues and maple
syrup to nourish vata dosha. Feel free to play with added ingredients
such as dates instead of the chocolate chips, black sesame seeds,
and nuts! Ingredients
¼ cup coconut oil or ghee
¼ cup date sugar or maple syrup
1 spoonful yogurt (vegan is fine too!) 1½ cups almond flour
2 tablespoons coconut flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Mix wet ingredients in one bowl, dry ingredients in another , then mix
together . Spoon dough out onto a baking tray in small scoops. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for nine to twelve minutes. My little love,
Every moment with you is so, so precious.I am seeing how time moves so quickly
as I watch you shift and change and grow each day . Your smile lights up my life. The new little sounds you make;
your wiggles and squirms;
your beautiful blue eyes;
the way you look at the world
gives me a clearer perspective
of the newness,
the presence,
the gifts
of each moment. You are this precious little soul
that has somehow been entrusted in our care,
and it is the greatest privilege I’ve ever had:
to get to love you. You are the smallest you will ever be, in this moment. The joy and the heartache that comes with loving you so much. It is the sweetest experience: getting to be your mama. Thank you,
for being the easiest thing to love. OceanofPDF .comBenecial Herbs and Essential Oils 9 
The medical model of care has given us ways to treat acute conditions, but
allopathic medicine often leaves us with a trail of side ef fects that may
complicate our situation even more. Pharmaceuticals treat symptoms but
often don’ t address the root cause of an imbalance, meaning that we
become dependent on using these medicines in order to feel okay . Natural
plant-based medicine helps to ease the discomfort of symptoms while
simultaneously treating the root cause of the imbalance, leading to
sustainable health and healing in the body and mind. Using herbs and oils as part of your daily routine, as outlined in this
chapter , will bring astounding abundance into your life, as that is the ener gy
of Mama Nature. She helps you to heal in a holistic way , nourishing your
mind, body , and emotions. Not only will the plants discussed in the next
pages deliver their medicine into the tissues of your body , but their
energetic blueprint also leaves a mark on your ener gy field. Think of each
plant as a personality; as you spend time with them each day you will begin
to develop a relationship and understand the ener getic qualities of each. Ayurvedic plant-based remedies can support you in the journey of
motherhood, whether you are using these botanicals to prepare your womb
for conception, to address occasional or acute imbalances during pregnancy ,
or for supporting healthy lactation, balanced mood, and restful sleep
postpartum. The chapter also discusses oil remedies for labor and birth, and
then for supporting your little one as you welcome them into the world. In addition to the herbs cited in this chapter , you can refer back to Krsna
Jivani’ s “Light on the Sacred Window” in chapter 6 (see the sidebar on this
page ), along with “Postpartum Spices and Herbs” in chapter 8 (see this
page ), for other staple herbs that are highly recommended postpartum.HERBAL ALLIES FOR PREGNANCY
AND THE POSTPARTUM
WINDOW
The herbs described below are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding and
can be made into teas to be consumed daily or as needed. Drinking herbal
teas during pregnancy is an easy way to boost nutrients so that you can
grow a healthy babe. During the postpartum period, herbal support can
provide nourishment for your body to heal; teas should be made with a ratio
of 1 teaspoon of herbs to 8 cups of water to keep their hydrating properties. If you are using the powdered form of the herbs, especially for the roots,
you can make a decoction by boiling 1 teaspoon of the powder in 2 cups of
water and boiling until you have just one cup of water left. ASHWAGANDHA ROOT
Ashwagandha root is a rejuvenative and an adaptogen—it helps the body
adapt to stress and intense changes. The word ashwagandha  translates as
“strength of a horse”—ashwaganda is renowned for its ability to enhance
strength and vitality . It also supports healthy sleeping patterns, reduces
stress, and supports the immune system and the health of the reproductive
systems for both men and women. FENNEL SEED
Fennel is medicine for the gastrointestinal tract, easing cramping, gas, and
bloating. In addition to its many digestive benefits, fennel seed has been
used for boosting fertility , alleviating water retention, and facilitating a
healthy supply of breast milk in nursing mamas.GINGER
Ginger ’s warm, soothing qualities make it one of the most well-known
medicinal plants. Celebrated not only for its spicy flavor that stimulates the
palate and supports digestion, ginger also of fers relief for expectant mamas
by easing morning sickness and nausea. NETTLES
Nettle contains a rich supply of vitamins and minerals and is a powerful
support for the nervous system. From an Ayurvedic perspective, nettle
serves as a nourishing and rejuvenative tonic—particularly for the kidneys
and adrenals. The herb increases ojas (vitality), making it useful for mamas
who need extra nourishment during pregnancy and breastfeeding—but
nettles have astringent properties, so new mamas should wait at least six
weeks postpartum to resume nettles in their diet. OATSTRAW
Oatstraw is an incredible herb for soothing the nervous system (similar to
oats) and is thus a perfect tonic for pacifying vata. Rich in calcium,
magnesium, and B vitamins, it is a nutritive tonic for the whole body . Make
oatstraw into a tea whenever you feel fatigue, nervous exhaustion, anxiety ,
stress, low ener gy, unsettled sleep, or insomnia. Oatstraw is the perfect
herbal ally during pregnancy and in your first forty-two days after giving
birth. RED RASPBERRY LEAVES
Throughout history , herbalists and midwives have turned to red raspberry
leaf tea to ease discomfort during menstruation, pregnancy , and labor . As a
mineral-rich remedy , red raspberry leaf is especially valuable in the last two
or three months of pregnancy , because of its ability to strengthen the uterusprior to giving birth. Many mamas continue to drink red raspberry leaf tea
after childbirth because of the way it helps restore the reproductive system
and continues to nourish. ROSE
Rose—whether it be petals used in teas or rosewater for drinks and
flavoring—is medicine for the heart and mind. Rose will support mama in
processing her emotions so that they are well digested and integrated into
her being. Rose also brings the ener getic experience of feeling God’ s grace
in our lives, and thus a feeling that life is happening for you, not to you. SHATAVARI
The literal translation of shatavari  is “she who possesses one hundred
husbands.” Shatavari is an adaptogen—it helps the body adapt to its
circumstance, bringing the body back into a state of balance, whether that
means resisting stress when needed, giving ener gy when depleted, or
increasing milk supply based on the baby’ s need. It has been used in
Ayurveda for thousands of years to support female reproductive and
maternal health. Shatavari is helpful in regulating menstrual cycles because it supports
estrogen and the luteinizing hormone—the hormone responsible for
triggering ovulation, crucial for conceiving. Postpartum (after 10 days or so
to assure the digestive fire is strong), shatavari can help to increase milk
supply , reduce stress, balance hormones, rebuild strength and vitality , and
boost immunity . Note:  Shatavari is contraindicated if the mother has any history of high
estrogen conditions such as fibroid tumors, cysts, polyps, or reproductive
cancers. In this case, guduchi is a recommended replacement for shatavari,
as an herb that will strengthen the uterus during pregnancy without
affecting estrogen levels.Blue Lotus for New Mothers
Blue lotus ( Nymphaea caerulea ) has been known since
ancient Egyptian times as the “flower of intuition.” It was
traditionally used for its meditative qualities that aid in Third
Eye intuition and lucid dreaming. Although there is no
reference to blue lotus that I am aware of in Ayurveda, it has
become one of my main herbal allies as a new mother . Blue lotus has the power to cool the nervous system and
relax the entire body . As a sedative and a nervine, it
provides a calming, euphoric feeling. It can be a wonderful
aid for sleep and stress (hello, motherhood!). Some people
may experience it as deeply relaxing, while others
experience it as a mild stimulant. Blue lotus has the intelligence to provide what is needed
for a new mother . How we experience the ef fects of plants
often reflects the profile of the plant itself. In this case, the
plant that is used to enhance intuition in the recipient itself in
turn uses intuition to serve the one who takes it. Blue lotus is believed to bring insight, release of fear , and
connection with the cosmos. I love this herb for new mothers
because it provides a feeling of calm, centered, meditative
relaxation that is greatly needed throughout motherhood. It
can help to promote restful sleep, calm anxiety , strengthen
breast tissue, uncover the root of your depression, release
the worries in your mind, relieve pain and muscle spasms
(such as afterpains and cramping), connect to your
“motherly instincts,” and much more. Blue lotus is traditionally an aphrodisiac, used to support
fertility and conception. But its use is dangerous during
pregnancy; only use it prior to conception, during
postpartum, and throughout motherhood.See the pages that follow for two of my blue lotus milk
tea recipes, along with recipes for two ready-to-use herbal
tea blends to keep on the shelf. —Krsna Jivani, clinical herbalist
Mama’ s Mood T ea 1
You can drink this tea as your daily pick-me-up—it boosts dopamine
levels in the brain and gives sustainable energy . Omit the jasmine
green tea in the early postpartum period or when you are choosing
not to consume caf feine. I find jasmine green tea to have a gentle,
uplifting, energizing ef fect that keeps me in balance while still
providing the daily energy I need! Ingredients
1 teaspoon jasmine green tea
1 teaspoon rose petals
1 teaspoon mucuna powder
1 teaspoon brahmi
1 teaspoon blue lotus (omit during pregnancy)
1–3 tablespoons (to taste) honey
milk or nut milk
Moon Milk T ea
During the postpartum window , drink this tea before bed for a deep,
relaxing sleep. Note:  if you are co-sleeping with your babe, be
cautious of overdoing sleep aids. If you sleep too deeply , sharing abed can be dangerous for your newborn. Use your motherly intuition
to do what is best for you and your babe. Ingredients
1 teaspoon blue lotus (omit this ingredient during pregnancy)
1 teaspoon rose
1 teaspoon chamomile
1 teaspoon passionflower (use sparingly during pregnancy)
1–3 tablespoons (to taste) honey milk or nut milk to taste
Instructions for Both T eas
Bring a pot of water to almost boiling on the stove. Leaving out the rose, honey , and milk, steep all the other ingredients
in the near-boiling water for five to seven minutes. Remove the pot from the stove, add the rose petals, and steep for
three minutes. Strain out the tea leaves and petals. Once the tea is cooled enough to sip, add honey (as honey should
not be heated). Enjoy warm, adding milk to taste if you wish (if you are using cow’ s
milk, boil the milk with a pinch of cardamom before adding it). The following recipes suggest blends you can make to have ready-to-use
herbal elixirs on the shelf. Mama’ s Mood T ea 2
This variation on Mama’ s Mood Tea leaves out the blue lotus but
adds ginger , shatavari, and maca. Like the blue lotus version, itboosts dopamine levels in the brain and gives sustainable energy—it
can be taken as an aphrodisiac during preconception, to boost mood
during pregnancy , and to regulate mama’ s hormones postpartum. Ingredients (makes 7–8 servings)
1 tablespoon rose petals or powder
1 tablespoon mucuna powder
1 teaspoon dried jasmine flowers
1 tablespoon dried ginger or powder
1 tablespoon shatavari
1 tablespoon maca
1 tablespoon vanilla powder
Mood Milk T ea 2
This variation on Moon Milk Tea leaves out the blue lotus but adds
ginger and ashwaganda. It can be taken during pregnancy and
postpartum to ease anxiety and aid with sleep. Ingredients (makes 3–6 servings)
1 tablespoon rose petals or powder
1 tablespoon chamomile
1 tablespoon ginger powder
1 tablespoon passionflower (use sparingly during pregnancy)
1 tablespoon ashwagandha
Instructions (for Both T eas)
Mix the herbs and store these tea blends in a jar in your pantry . Use
1 tablespoon of the desired tea steeped in boiled water or simmeredin hot milk as desired. After steeping or simmering in your water or
milk, let the elixir cool down enough to sip and then add 1
tablespoon of honey , or to taste. (Do not add honey to boiling hot
water or milk, as honey becomes toxic when heated.) Enjoy your
elixir or milk tonic while it’ s warm. These tea blends are made with potent herbs, so take them only one
to three times per week rather than daily . You can also alter the
recipes by omitting various herbs and picking and choosing others to
add, switching it up every time you make it. ESSENTIAL OILS FOR SUPPORT
AND HEALING
Mama earth has given us everything that we need to be healthy and to heal. Our world and our food are laden with chemicals. Over one hundred
thousand children in the United States get sick every year from the
chemicals in house cleaners alone. These are toxins that we consciously
invite into our homes. The smell after cleaning your bathroom that makes it
feel “clean”? Those are the chemical constituents of toxic cleaners entering
into your nose, and thus into your bloodstream, transferring into every
organ of your body within minutes. Essential oils work the same way ,
though instead of having negative side ef fects, each and every oil carries
side benefits that will help your body heal. Essential oils can be used to make your own nontoxic house cleaners. They can be used to make your own natural bath salts, as well as hair and
skincare products, and they can treat chronic and acute health conditions. They are scientifically proven to heal tissues and or gans, they have
powerful ef fects on your mind and your mood, and they may even mend
broken hearts. Essential oils always seemed a little “woo-woo” to me. As far as I knew ,
they were something you used for relaxation or to make your home smellpleasant. Little did I know , essential oils are mama earth’ s most potent form
of medicine. One drop of peppermint oil is equivalent to the medicinal
compounds found in 28 cups of peppermint tea! They are the volatile
compounds (meaning they evaporate quickly—and are absorbed into the
skin just as quickly) found in the bark, resin, seeds, stems, flowers, roots,
and leaves of plants, as well as in the skin of citrus fruits. Each plant, and thus each oil, has distinctive qualities and healing
properties. They are a secondary metabolite of the plant, meaning they are
not needed for the plant’ s survival but are there to fend of f predators and
other threatening influences. They support the entire plant’ s system,
enabling it to thrive. When humans use them, they support us in the same
way. QUALITY IS EVERYTHING
Because essential oil regulation is limited and standards are minimal, many
botanical oil companies can advertise that their oils are 100 percent pure
but, in fact, they may be full of chemical additives and fillers used in order
to save money and time. Unfortunately , when proper testing measures are
not taken, it is impossible to ensure that an essential oil is truly “pure.” For
effective healing to take place, it is important to only use unprocessed oils
that are sourced directly from mama nature with nothing added— especially
when using these oils as a pregnant mama or for your babe. doTERRA  is a company that I have grown to love and feel completely
comfortable advocating for . They have trusted alliances with honest
growers and distillers. They have searched the world for the plants with the
most therapeutic compounds. They have strict standards that verify the
purity of each batch, along with third-party testing to guarantee
transparency . To ensure that each bottle of essential oil is pure and free from
contaminants or synthetic fillers, doTERRA  created the Certified Pure
Therapeutic Grade protocol. The oils and blends that I suggest below are all
from doTERRA  and can be ordered through the link provided in the
resources section of this book.APPROACHES FOR USING OILS
For acute conditions, essential oils can be used every twenty minutes until
symptoms subside, then used every two to six hours as needed. For ongoing
conditions, use two times per day as preventive medicine, typically in the
morning and the evening. You can access the healing properties of essential oils three main ways:
aromatically , topically , and internally . When essential oils are used
ar omatically , they are inhaled, absorbed through the respiratory tract and
lungs, and then circulated through your bloodstream. Aromatic oils can be
used in a scent dif fuser , or you can inhale the scent from your cupped hands
or directly from the oil bottle. Your nose is the most direct route to your
brain, which makes the aromatic use of oils one of the fastest ways to alter
your mood. The scent travels from your olfactory nerve to your limbic
system, and once in the limbic system it triggers a response in your brain
based on memories and experiences, of fering immediate benefits that can
be uplifting, renewing, soothing, calming, or ener gizing. To use oils topically , you put the oils directly on your skin or diluted in
a carrier oil; the oil gets absorbed into your bloodstream and circulates
around your entire body within minutes. ( Note:  There are some “hot” oils—
such as oregano, cassia, clove, thyme, and cinnamon—that you should
never apply directly onto your skin without a carrier oil.) The tissues and
the or gans then absorb what they need, whether it is the plant medicine or
the ener getic quality of the plant, such as “calm” or “ener gize.” When using
essential oils for your little one, always dilute 1 drop of oil per 1 tablespoon
of a carrier oil such as olive, sweet almond, sesame, or coconut oils. You can apply oil topically to any area of pain or concern (dilute as
needed), or apply more generally under the nose, at the back of neck, to
forehead, or to wrists. To affect the entire body , apply oil to the bottoms of
feet, spine, or navel. Add a warm compress or massage into tissues to drive
the oils deeper , if you wish. You can also add 6–8 drops of essential oils to
bath salts before adding them to your bath.Pure essential oils can also be taken internally : remember that oils are
what give plants and fruits much of their flavor . Because our bodies are
already designed to metabolize and process plants and fruits, we are
consequently equipped to metabolize essential oils (when taken in
appropriate doses), which have higher concentrations of the natural
compounds. When taken internally , the oils are absorbed into systemic
circulation via the digestive tract. As lipid-soluble compounds, essential oils
can easily be transported to all the body’ s organs, even the brain. Note:  Not
all essential oils are safe for internal use, and I only advocate the use of
doTERRA ’s essential oils internally . To use an oil internally , put a drop under your tongue, hold for a few
seconds, and then swallow . You can also dilute a drop of oil by adding it to
a teaspoon of honey , and then adding that to warm water . To send the oil
directly to your digestive system, put a drop of oil in an empty veggie
capsule and swallow . MAMA MUST-HAVES
The next few pages provide an outline of the oils that I would personally
suggest to have on hand for common conditions that a pregnant, birthing,
and postpartum mama might experience, as well as essential oil solutions
for your babe. PREGNANCY
Copaiba. Take 1 drop under the tongue morning and evening for
headaches and nervous system support. doTERRA  DigestZen blend. Take 1 drop internally when needed to
relieve nausea and morning sickness, as well as indigestion. Lemon. Use aromatically to help with nausea and for its energizing
and uplifting ef fect. Frankincense. Take internally to tone and strengthen the uterus,
and for its emotional ef fect of calming the nervous system (helpingus to “be here now”). Peppermint. Apply topically for headaches, sore muscles, and
tension; inhale as an aromatic to relieve indigestion and nausea; use
for cooling if you are feeling overheated. LABOR
Lavender and clary sage. Diffuse lavender and clary sage together
to promote relaxation and stabilize contractions. Lavender and frankincense. Lavender and frankincense, used
topically with a carrier oil, can be used to promote skin integrity of
the perineum throughout the birthing process. They can be applied
topically toward the end of pregnancy and during birth to help
prevent tearing. Peppermint. Peppermint has the ability to stimulate the central
nervous system, of fering profound ef fects on mood. Dif fuse to give
energy and to ease any anxiety . Ylang ylang. Ylang ylang is a feminine, floral scent. It reduces
stress, muscle tension, and pain. Ylang ylang contains a naturally
occurring substance called linalool that reduces anxiety . During
labor , ylang ylang can be dif fused or placed in a carrier oil for
massage. Cardamon. Traditionally , Ayurveda recommends that a birthing
mother inhale the smoke of cardamom and calamus during labor . This can be inhaled as an incense, or the room can be filled with
these scents by using a dif fuser . Cardamon particularly is a warming
and powerful vata pacifier that eases cramping, helps with nausea,
and reduces pain. POSTP ARTUM
doTERRA  Balance blend. Created with the purpose of grounding
the body , mind, and emotions, doTERRA  Balance is formulated withemotionally beneficial oils that work together to create a sense of
calmness, stability , and well-being. Dif fuse or apply topically to the
bottoms of your feet. doTERRA  Serenity blend. doTERRA ’s Serenity is medicine for the
nervous system. It is a restful blend that helps reduce stress and
promotes deep sleep and relaxation for mama and baby . Diffuse it as
desired, and apply topically to the bottoms of your feet. NEWBORN
DigestZen blend. Diluted with a carrier oil, DigestZen can be
massaged clockwise on baby’ s belly and spine if they are
experiencing any discomfort due to colic or gassiness. Lavender . Lavender is amazing to dif fuse at nighttime to support
little babe’ s rest, as well as to create an association with scent and
sleep. You can put a drop in baby’ s massage oil anytime to support
rest and relaxation. Lavender also helps to relieve skin irritations,
including cradle cap, diaper rash, and heat rash. Melaleuca. Melaleuca, more widely known as tea tree, is medicine
for skin infections and rashes. It also boosts your little one’ s immune
system and improves blood and oxygen circulation. Apply topically
mixed with a carrier oil. Roman chamomile. Babies who have trouble sleeping can benefit
from the natural soothing ef fects of chamomile, an oil that is
traditionally used to treat insomnia. Together with lavender ,
chamomile can also relieve symptoms of colic, and its soothing and
anti-inflammatory properties make it valuable as a treatment for skin
conditions. Rosewood. Rosewood is said to protect baby’ s energetic field; use it
in a dif fuser throughout the day and night.ESSENTIAL OIL SOLUTIONS FOR PREGNANCY
The following are essential oil solutions for common conditions during
pregnancy . Whereas the oils listed above are ones that I would suggest
every mama have on hand, the ones below are suggested on a case-per -case
basis and to be used as needed. EDEMA/SWELLING:  During pregnancy , the extra fluid in the body and
the pressure from the growing uterus can cause swelling ( edema ) in the
ankles and feet—and it can even show up in other parts of the body . Use the
following oil blends to increase blood and lymphatic flow and reduce the
discomfort associated with edema. Edema Massage Oil
3 drops ginger
2 drops cypress
2 drops lavender
2 teaspoons carrier oil such as almond, coconut, or sesame oil
Combine oils with 2 teaspoons of carrier oil and massage onto legs
and feet, toward the heart. Edema Foot Soak
Bowl of hot water
1 teaspoon Epsom salt
1 drop cypress essential oil
1–2 drops lemon or grapefruit oil
Stir oils into the Epsom salt, then add to hot water . Soak feet for ten or fifteen minutes.BALANCE MET ABOLISM, RELIEVE SUGAR CRA VINGS,
SUPPORT APPETITE, AND SUPPORT BODY
ACCEPT ANCE
Grapefruit, doTERRA  Slims and Sassy blend, or
kumquat. Use aromatically . FATIGUE
doTERRA  Motivate, Citrus Bliss, or Passion blends. Use aromatically or apply topically . Basil. Use aromatically or apply topically . Lemon or peppermint. Use aromatically . GEST ATIONAL  DIABETES
Cinnamon, coriander , or cassia. Use aromatically or apply
topically . HEADACHES
Copaiba and frankincense. Take internally . Peppermint. Use aromatically; apply topically to temples,
forehead, and the back of your neck; or put a drop on your
thumb and press to the roof of your mouth as far back as
you can for fifteen seconds. HEARTBURN
DigestZen blend, peppermint, or ginger . Apply topically
directly onto your breastbone; take 1 drop internally . Cardamom. Take internally or apply topically .ITCHY  SKIN
Roman chamomile, blue tansy , or lavender . Take
internally or apply topically . JOINT P AIN
Turmeric and copaiba. Take internally or apply topically . doTERRA  Deep Blue blend. Apply topically . NAUSEA
DigestZen blend, peppermint, or lemon. Take internally ,
diffuse, or apply topically . Ginger . Take internally . PREECLAMPSIA
Marjoram or frankincense. Use aromatically , apply
topically , or take internally . PRETERM LABOR
Lavender . Rub 1–3 drops on your belly . SLEEPLESSNESS
Serenity blend, lavender , vetiver , or Roman chamomile. Use aromatically or apply topically . INDUCTION (A T FULL  TERM)
Myrrh and clary sage. Apply 1–2 drops to your wrists and
abdomen, as well as inside your ankle bones to induce labor
or if labor has begun and then stalled.Stretch Mark Blend
5 drops lavender
5 drops myrrh
5 drops helichrysum
10 ml carrier oil
Mix the oils into the carrier oil and massage onto your belly , thighs,
lower back, and breasts. ESSENTIAL OIL SOLUTIONS FOR LABOR
Essential oils can be incredibly supportive during labor and the birth of
your babe. Whether you are looking for general support in creating an ideal
birthing environment or are in need of specific solutions to something that
is arising, the following list is for you. OVERALL  SUPPORT FOR AN OPTIMAL  LABOR
Lavender , basil, clary sage, geranium, or ylang ylang. Diffuse or apply topically
doTERRA  ClaryCalm blend or Peace blend. Use
aromatically . According to Ayurveda, you should inhale cardamom,
kustha, vacha, and chitrak during active labor and the
pushing stage.BLEEDING
Geranium, helichrysum, or myrhh. Apply topically on
tummy (can be used for postpartum bleeding as well). NER VOUSNESS AND STRESS
Basil, frankincense, or lavender . Apply topically or use
aromatically . Balance blend or Serenity blend. Apply topically or use
aromatically . CONTRACTIONS OR ST ALLED LABOR
Clary sage and myrrh. Apply topically to belly , ankles, and
wrists. Cinnamon, fennel, jasmine, or lavender . Use aromatically . LOW CONFIDENCE
Basil, clary sage, marjoram, lavender; doTERRA
Balance blend, Motivate blend, or Serenity blend. Use
aromatically . PAIN MANAGEMENT
Cardamom, basil, cypress, lavender , or marjoram. Apply
topically or use aromatically . doTERRA  Deep Blue blend. Apply topically . OVERHEA TING
Peppermint, eucalyptus, or wintergreen. Apply topically .PERINEUM PREP ARA TION
Frankincense, geranium, lavender , Roman chamomile,
or sandalwood. Apply topically . TENSION
Clary sage, geranium, lavender , magnolia, or neroli. Use
aromatically or apply topically . ESSENTIAL OIL SOLUTIONS FOR THE
POSTPARTUM WINDOW
The following oils will support mama and babe postpartum, whether it be to
enhance their environment, stabilize mood and emotions, or support major
or minor imbalances that are arising. Uplifting Diffuser Combinations
1 drop rose + 1 drop wild orange + 3 drops sandalwood
1 drop lavender + 3 drops grapefruit + 1 drop ylang ylang
MOOD ENHANCER
Vetiver , jatamamsi, clary sage, frankincense, geranium,
bergamot, sandalwood, rose, or any citrus/conifers. Use
aromatically . AFTERP AIN/UTERINE CRAMPING WHILE NURSING
Cardamom, bergamot, clary sage, frankincense, or
doTERRA  Deep Blue blend. Apply topically .CONSTIP ATION
DigestZen blend, fennel, or ginger . Take internally or
apply topically . HEMORRHOID RELIEF
Balance blend, turmeric, clove (diluted). Apply topically ,
directly on af fected area. LOW MILK SUPPL Y
Fennel or rosemary . Apply fennel or rosemary topically to
breasts; take fennel internally . MASTITIS
Lavender . Apply topically . Thyme or oregano. Take internally (diluted or in a veggie
capsule). Peppermint. Take internally or apply topically . DRY, CRACKED, OR SORE NIPPLES
Helichrysum or lavender . Apply directly to nipples to invite
healing and elasticity . OVERSUPPL Y OF MILK
Peppermint. Take internally . Basil. Apply topically on breast(s) (specifically for
engorgement). POSTP ARTUM DEPRESSION
Elevation blend, frankincense, melissa, or Citrus Bliss
blend. Apply topically under nose and on ears.doTERRA  Cheer blend. Use aromatically or topically . Frankincense, rose, or clary sage. Apply topically or take
internally . SLEEP
Jatamamsi. Apply topically to the back of the knees and the
bottom of the feet. Valerian. Use aromatically . Lavender , Roman chamomile, or blue lotus. Use
aromatically with a dif fuser in the bedroom or apply a portion
of a drop to the back of the neck, temples, and heart before
bed. TEARING, INFLAMMA TION, AND SORENESS
Frankincense, helichrysum, myrrh, or lavender . Apply
any, or all, topically . Frankincense, melaleuca, and lavender . Apply topically in
a sitz bath, as a perineal spray , or with frozen feminine pads
(see instructions below). Sitz Bath Blend or Frozen Feminine Pads
Warmth is generally recommended for postpartum healing, but if
there is inflammation and pain, these frozen feminine pads will of fer
great relief. If there is no pain, you can use this blend in warm water
as a sitz bath or perineal spray . 1 bottle witch hazel
Herbal bath blend (see this page )4 drops lavender
4 drops melaleuca
2 drops frankincense
aloe vera gel
1.Prepare the herbal bath blend as a strong tea. 2.Mix into a spray bottle with half herbal tea blend and half witch
hazel. 3.Add essential oils. Shake to mix. 4.Cut large menstrual pads into thirds, and spray the mixture onto
the pads. 5.Pour aloe vera gel down the center of each pad and freeze them. 6.Put any remaining solution in a peri bottle to apply as needed. 7.Use these frozen pads following labor to heal perineal tissues or
stitches. ESSENTIAL OIL SOLUTIONS FOR
BABY
When using essential oils for baby topically , always dilute 1 drop of
essential oil to 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil. COLIC
DigestZen or T amer blend. Apply topically on baby’ s spine
and tummy (clockwise motions).Fennel. Apply topically on baby’ s spine and tummy . Roman chamomile, doTERRA  Serenity or Adaptiv
blends, or ylang ylang. Apply topically . CRADLE CAP
Lavender , melaleuca, sandalwood, or frankincense. Apply topically . CRYING
doTerra Serenity blend, Peace blend, T amer blend,
Roman chamomile, or lavender . Use aromatically or apply
topically . JAUNDICE
Frankincense, lemon, or geranium. Apply topically . REFLUX
doTERRA  DigestZen or T amer blends, fennel, lavender ,
peppermint, or Roman chamomile. Apply topically . TEETHING
Copaiba, Roman chamomile, or lavender . Apply topically
on jawline or use aromatically . THRUSH
Spikenard, clary sage, arborvitae, or melaleuca. Apply
topically .Diaper Rash Cream
5 drops lavender
4 drops melaleuca
½ cup raw coconut oil
Melt coconut oil in a glass cup using the double-boiler method. Add
essential oils and stir . Store in a sealable glass container and leave
in a cool place. Apply as needed. Waking up with you each morning
has easily become the most special part of my day . Your smile;
your giggles and wiggles;
your beautiful little voice that’ s starting to make so many new
sounds;
the way you look at the wall,
the shadows,
and out of the window in so much awe;
your sweetness. Your incredible sweetness
makes life so, so sweet. How odd it would be
to wake up without your dark blue eyes looking for mine. Or the late nights I lie awake just looking at you, thinking how
incredibly beautiful you are. How odd it would be to not walk miles and miles with you every
day,
to not sit on the back porch and watch you look in such wonder
at the world all around. You’re still so new ,
though how odd it would be
to have a life without you now…where just a few months back I had no idea what it would be
like
with you here. You’re this precious little soul. I still don’t feel like you’re mine,
and I pray that it stays like that. I’m here to serve you, little love. To help you remember God;
to help you remember who you really  are. And for now I’ll love you like my son,
like my little buddy ,
my dear most friend,
my little companion. Not mine,
but God’ s—
Entrusted in my care
for this little bit of time. I pray to love you like the precious soul that you are,
inside this tiny , cute, and round little body . It is the perfection of motherhood actually ,
and such a grace-filled spiritual path:
to see the soul within you,
to see God within your heart,
and to serve you,
selflessly ,
like every mother does—
Knowing that you’re not mine,
but eternally His. And I get to care for you
for this short little time.You’ve awakened within my heart
a love I’ve never known,
and you’ve pulled out of me
an ability to care
in ways I never knew I was capable of. Thank you, little love.OceanofPDF .comYEpilogue
AND BEYOND
ou’ve got this, mama. Motherhood is the most beautiful, powerful,
transformational, hardest, and most meaningful thing you will do in
your life. With every stage comes new challenges and new joys. Every baby is so
different, and you are blessed with your little angel who will support you to
grow in the most profound and important ways. You’ll learn what you need to learn, as you need to learn it. Trust that. You have everything that you need to mother your little one. As the saying goes: the days may be long, but the years fly by . Savor
your moments. Be as present as you can. Love them with everything that
you have and everything that you are. Work on yourself, keep growing—do
the best that you can and keep trying to be better—and the fruits will show
up in who your little one is, and who they become. You are doing the most valuable work. I see you. I honor you. I am here for you. In service and gratitude,
Dhyana
OceanofPDF .comTOnline Resources
he following list of websites are online services and products available
from the author and book contributors. A yurvedaMamaBox.com
An online shop with everything you need for preconception, pregnancy ,
birth, and the postpartum window . Purchase single items, specialty and gift
boxes, or subscribe to receive a box each month with essentials for
nourishing yourself and your little one—specific to your month of
motherhood. Here you’ll find herbal remedies specifically for
preconception, pregnancy , birth, and postpartum, as well as for your
continued journey through motherhood. The site also of fers Ayurvedic
training and consultations. A yurvedaHealthRetr eat.com
Come experience anywhere from three to twenty-eight days of a
personalized Ayurvedic Pancha Karma retreat. theSisterScience.com
Online, self-paced Ayurveda trainings and courses, as well as access to my
online community , Soul Space. Through all of our of ferings, we are
dedicated to supporting your journey to total wellness, so that you may feel
truly inspired in living your most fulfilling life, every moment of every day . my .doterra.com/dhyanamasla
My online shop of fering essential oils from doTERRA. I’ll be notified when
you use this link to purchase your oils and will email free access to myonline Essential Education course with any purchase. The following are online shop recommendations and resources for your
Ayurvedic care. banyanbotanicals.com
An online shop of fering traditional Ayurvedic herbs and oils, herbal-infused
ghees, chyavanprash, and more. innersunandmoon.com/dir ectory
A directory of certified Ayurvedic postpartum doulas. mountainr oseherbs.com
An online shop of fering or ganic herbs, spices, and botanicals. OceanofPDF .comReferences and Suggested Reading
A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda. Bhagavad-Gita As it Is. Alachua,
FL: Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, 1997. A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupāda. Srimad Bhagavatam, Thir d
Canto. Alachua, FL: Bhaktivedanta Book Trust, 1988. Blossom, Scott. “Intro to Ayurveda: Understanding the Three Doshas.”
Yoga Journal,  January 21, 2021. Collins, Faith. Joyful T oddlers and Pr eschoolers: Cr eate a Life That Y ou
and Y our Child Love. Chino Valley , AZ: Hohm Press, 2017. Frawley , David, and Vasant Lad. The Y oga of Herbs. Twin Lakes, WI:
Lotus Press, 1993. Gaskin, Ina May . Ina May’ s Guide to Br eastfeeding. London: Pinter and
Martin, 2009. ———. Ina May’ s Guide to Childbirth. London: Ebury , 2008. ———. Spiritual Midwifery . Summertown, TN: Book Publishing
Company , 2002. Gerber , Magda. Dear Par ent. Los Angeles, CA: Resources for Infant
Educators (RIE), 2003. Humphrey , Sheila. The Nursing Mother ’s Herbal. Minneapolis: Fairview
Press, 2003. Kitzinger , Sheila. The New Experience of Childbirth. London, UK: Orion
Publishing Group, 2004. Knost, L. R. The Gentle Par ent. Saint Cloud, FL: Little Hearts Books,
LLC, 2013. ———. Two Thousand Kisses a Day . Saint Cloud, FL. Little Hearts
Books, LLC, 2013. La Leche League International. The W omanly Art of Br eastfeeding. London: Pinter and Martin, 2010.Lad, Vasant. Textbook of Ayurveda: Fundamental Principles. Vol. 1. Albuquerque: Ayurvedic Press, 2002. Leboyer , Frédérick. Birth without V iolence. Rochester , VT: Inner
Traditions International, 2009. Liedlof f, Jean. The Continuum Concept. New York: De Capo Press, 1986. Oakes, Ysha. Touching Heaven: T onic Postpartum Car e with Ayurveda. Vols. 1 and 2. Sacred Window Studies, 2012.
https://sacredwindowstudies.com/product/recipes-and-routines . Rafael, Terra. Ayurveda for the Childbearing Y ears: A Primer . London:
Lulu.com , 2009. Reddy , Kumuda, Linda Egenes, and Mar garet Mullins. For a Blissful
Baby: Healthy and Happy Pr egnancy with Maharishi V edic
Medicine. Delhi: New Age Books, 2004. R. K. Sharma Bhagwan Das. Caraka Samhita. Varanasi, India:
Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Of fice, 2016. Romm, Aviva. “Hypothyroid Testing: The Six Labs You Need.”
avivaromm.com/hypothyroid-testing-need-know . ———. Natural Health after Birth. Rochester , VT: Inner Traditions/Bear
and Company , 2002. Rosenber g, Marshall. Nonviolent Communication. Encinitas, CA: Puddle
Dancer , 2003. Rothman, Barbara Katz. A Bun in the Oven. New York: New York
University Press, 2016. Sacinandana Swami. The Living Name. Pinner , London: Saranagati
Publishing, 2018. Siegel, Daniel J. Parenting fr om the Inside Out. New York: J. P . Tarcher/Putnam, 2003. Srila Gopala Bhatta Gosvami. Sat Kriya Sara Dipika. Mayapur , India: The
Bhaktivedanta Academy , 1999. Swami, Radhanath. The Journey W ithin. San Rafael, CA: Mandala
Publishing, 2016. Teitelbaum, Marianne. Healing the Thyr oid with Ayurveda. Rochester , VT:
Inner Traditions/Bear and Company , 2019.Weed, Susun. Wise W oman Herbal for the Childbearing Y ear. Woodstock,
NY: Ash Tree Publishing, 1996. Weschler , Toni. Taking Char ge of Y our Fertility . New York: William
Morrow/HarperCollins, 2015. Wolf, David. Relationships That W ork: The Power of Conscious Living. San Rafael, CA: Mandala, 2008. OceanofPDF .comIndex
Note: Indexed page numbers fr om the original print edition have been
retained in this digital edition as a r eference. Links on page numbers in the
index will take you to the beginning of the corr esponding page fr om the
print edition. Y ou may need to scr oll forwar d from that location to find the
corresponding r eference in the ebook edition. A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X
Y Z
A
A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, 72–73 , 232
abhyanga
for colic relief, 250
contraindications, 211
after C-section, 215
in daily routine, 65
in early labor , 129, 151
instructions, 66–67
for newborns, 246–47 , 252, 255
oils for , 66, 198
postpartum, 180–81 , 202, 205, 207, 214
during pregnancy , 90, 110
for vata balancing, 22
acid reflux/heartburn, 98–99 , 110
in newborns, 252–53 , 319
pitta imbalance and, 24
adoption, 216–18
adrenaline, 121, 151
affirmations, 131
agni, 54
after childbirth, 179, 279–80
after C-section, 214
healthy , 270–71
impaired, 271
in postpartum, 200–201 , 202supporting, 127, 213
air element, 15, 17, 18–19 , 174, 201
alfalfa juice powder , 127
Allison, Jenny , Golden Month,  171
almond flour , 298
almond milk, 215–16 , 292
almond oil, 310, 313
almonds, 99, 102
Almond Date Shake, 291
Almond-Date Laddus, 215–16
Dry-Fruit Laddus, 276
for lactation, 260, 263
for ojas building, 95, 128
powdered, 56, 69
alternate-nostril breathing ( nadi shodhana ), 104
benefits, 22
instructions, 22–23
postpartum, 210–1 1
ama (toxins), 112, 179, 201, 212, 280
amalaki (aka amla, Indian gooseberry), 58, 59, 99, 102
amniotic fluid, 95, 144, 146, 147
anemia, 24, 99–100 , 127
anxiety , 76
about childbirth, 116, 121, 165
agni impairment and, 271
body therapies for , 66, 181
essential oils for , 311
and health, overall, 8, 11, 12
herbs for , 58, 100, 200, 212, 303–4 , 305, 307
lack of sleep from, 207
ojas depletion and, 272
postpartum, 175, 192, 195, 204–6 , 209
vata imbalance and, 19, 20, 62, 94, 155
apana vata, 95, 102, 120, 123, 154–55 , 175
aphrodisiacs, 57, 305, 307
apples, 273, 285
sauce, 297–98
Sautéed and Stewed Apples, 123, 296–97
apricots, dried, 273, 276, 284
arborvitae oil, 319
arnica tablets, 177, 215
artava dhatu, 87
asafetida (Hing), 294–95
ashoka, 55, 199, 217ashwagandha
in basti, 125
description, 302–3
Mood Milk Tea 2, 307
postpartum, 181, 205, 207, 208, 210
preconception, 57
during pregnancy , 100
transdermal, 209
asparagus, 284, 296
association, power of, 72–73
asthi dhatu, 86
attachment ( raga ), 10–1 1, 12, 34, 38
auric field, 192, 238, 242
aversion ( dvesha ), 10–1 1, 12, 34, 38
avocado, 128, 260–61 , 270, 278, 285
awareness, 12, 37
and breath, connection between, 96, 210
of fetus, 85
for healing, 229
during labor , 159–60
spiritual, 78–80
Ayurveda
on gestation, imprinting in, 2
goal of, 14, 16
on health, overall view of, 8–9, 98
on newborns, 238, 240, 244–45
nutritional focus of, 267–68
as personalized science, 15
on postpartum, 185, 191–92
as science of life, 7–8
Ayurvedic postpartum doulas, 181, 183, 197, 203, 206, 211, 212
Ayurvedic practitioners, consulting, 17, 62, 147, 206, 211
B
babies
constitution of, 72
essential oils for , 310, 319–20
unborn, reflecting on, 142–43
in womb, 73, 103
See also  newborns
baby showers, 197–98
bala, 125, 181, 205, 207
bananas, 260–61 , 273basal body temperature, 62–63
basil
fresh, 285
oil, 313, 315, 316, 317
basmati rice
kanji, 292–93
kitchari, 294–95
Rice Gruel, 277
basti (warm oil enema), 125, 129, 151, 181, 202, 206
baths. See herbal baths ; sitz baths
bedtime, 21, 66, 207
beets, 99, 100, 270, 285
Iron-Rich Dal, 294
Steamed Veggies, 296
belly wrapping
after delivery , 153–54
instructions, 182
postpartum, 180, 197, 202, 207, 215
bergamot oil, 317
Bhagavad Gita, 71, 80, 81, 159
Bhakti tradition, 10
birth plans, 128–29
delivery , 130
for labor , 129–30
pain coping techniques, 132–33
partner/support person’ s responsibilities, 131–32 , 133–34
birth stories
author ’s daughter , 161–67
author ’s son, 156–61
peace with, 214
sacredness of, 142
birthing, 149–50
catching baby , 135, 153, 161, 163
considerations for , 115–18
daily rituals to prepare for , 123–24
“en caul,” 144
ideal, envisioning, 128
locations for , 119–21
as natural, 142, 164
nourishment immediately after , 153
positions, 108, 130, 133, 163
premature, 95
shoulder dystocia, 156
support during, 148type of, breastfeeding and, 261
Birthing Ayurveda  blog, 127
birthing centers, 121, 147
birthing partner roles, 148, 150, 152, 154, 156
black pepper/peppercorns, 21, 28, 104
Garlic Chutney , 289
Hot Milk Tonic, 290–91
for postpartum, 179, 212, 275, 278, 283, 286, 292–93 , 294–95
Blackwell, Sarva, 174, 182, 217
Blossom, Scott
on kapha, 26–27
on pitta, 23–24
on vata, 19
blue lotus, 206, 306
description, 305
essential oil, 318
blue tansy oil, 314
bodily tissues (dhatus)
of embryo, 85
nourishing, 259, 281
types, 54
bodily ur ges, suppressing, 95
body
Ayurvedic view of, 9–10
after childbirth, 175
emotions in, 226
identifying with, 41
knowing of, 142, 164
memory of, 2–3
nourishment and, 268
postpartum care of, 180–81 , 196
surrendering, 191
body time ( kayakalpa ), 192
Brahma Samhita, 80
brahmi (a.k.a. water hyssop), 58, 100
infused oil, 152, 181, 182, 204, 205, 207
in teas, 208, 306
brain
formation, 1–2, 86
neuroplasticity of, 45
support for , 58
brain fog, 58, 208
Braxton-Hicks contractions, 143–44 , 146, 165–66
breastfeeding, 174, 258–59 , 261, 280antigalactogogues, 254
Ayurvedic guidelines on, 240
breast milk, quality of, 278
challenges in, 195, 262–64
essential oils for , 317
frequency , 244, 253
golden hour and, 151, 154
hypothyroidism and, 209
lactation herbs, 180, 199, 202, 212, 213, 263
list of essentials for , 241, 242
nipple soothing oil, 198
oversupply , 252–54 , 317
partner ’s support during, 187
rasa dhatu nourishment during, 259–60
spitting up, 243–44 , 252–54
transitioning from, 260–61
vata balancing in, 259–60
buttermilk, 98, 275
C
caffeine, 76, 272, 278
breast milk and, 249, 250, 251
conception and, 54, 57
in kapha, balancing, 28
in pitta imbalance, 25
sleep and, 207
thyroid and, 209
in vata imbalance, 20, 21, 124
calendula, 92, 181, 198, 199, 204, 263
cardamom
in baby formula, 264–65
black, roasted, 106
essential oil, 130, 136, 151, 153, 311, 314, 316, 317
Herbal Chewing Mix, 289–90
Hot Milk Tonic, 290–91
during labor , 153, 311, 315
for ojas building, 56, 69
for postpartum, 208, 282, 286, 291, 292–93 , 296–97
powder , 215–16 , 276, 277
during pregnancy , 87, 98
cashew milk, 131
cashews, 128, 276, 277, 284, 291–92
cassia oil, 310, 313celibacy , 94
ceremonies and rituals
for baby’ s five senses, 88–89
blessing way , 197–98
garbhadhana-samskara (conception), 59, 67–69
jata karma (birth), 168
nama karana samskara (name-giving), 234
newborn’ s welcome bath, 245
niskaraman samskara (welcoming baby), 220–21
postpartum, 184
simantonnayana (hair parting), 113
śosyantī homa (safe delivery), 138
cervix
dilation of, 147, 148, 162
incompetence of, 95
position and texture of, 64
“ripening” of, 144
cesarean birth, 211
belly wrapping and, 182
consent instructions, 136
ghee use and, 280
postpartum after , 213–16
chamomile, 100, 198, 210
in baths, 92, 199, 250
in ghee, 263
in teas, 208, 249, 283, 306, 307
See also  Roman chamomile
channels, 96, 112, 113, 211
Charaka Samhita,  68, 268, 272
chickpea flour , 247–48 , 256
chitrak, 153, 179, 212, 315
chocolate chips, 298
choice
balance and, 16
conscious, 11–12 , 37
ignorance in, 13
in responding, 226–29
sense control and, 40–41 , 77
chyavanprash, 58, 99
cilantro, 284, 286, 295
cinnamon, 56, 76, 278
essential oil, 310, 313, 315
Hot Milk Tonic, 290–91
for postpartum, 215–16 , 283, 286, 291–92 , 293–94Tahini Cookies, 297–98
Warm Yam Smoothie, 292
circadian rhythms, 64
clary sage oil, 311, 314, 315, 316, 317, 319
cleanliness, 43, 75
in baby products, 255
in food preparation, 81, 270
cleanses, 54–55 , 98
climate, 15–16 , 21, 25, 28
clove, 56, 278, 282, 292–93 , 296–97
essential oil, 310, 317
Herbal Chewing Mix, 213, 289–90
Hot Milk Tonic, 290–91
coconut, 215–16 , 270, 289–90
flour , 298
milk, 247–48
oil, 254, 255, 285, 298, 310, 313, 320
sugar , 284, 293–94
water , 101, 107, 131, 156, 256, 275
colic, 249–50 , 319
comfrey , 198, 199
communication
breastfeeding as, 258–59
conscious, 51
effective, 47–48
by newborns, 240–41
with newborns, 230–32 , 236
compassion, 42, 75
ahimsa and, 37–38
in mothering, 229–30 , 231
in postpartum, 194
self-knowledge and, 45
Sri Radha as embodiment of, 232
conception
Ayurvedic ideal, 31
building health prior to, 4
constitution at time of, 15
doshas and, 61, 84
menstrual cycle tracking and, 62–64
preparation for , 31–33
timing, 59
conditioned responses, 225–26 , 231
conditioned worldview , 227
congestion, 27, 101, 271consciousness, 33–34
in childbearing, 1–2, 3–4
in embryo, 85
entering matter , 31
in marma therapy , 211
nourishing, 80
preconception, 36
uplifting, practices for , 42
constipation, 101–2
of newborns, 250–51
postpartum, 203–4 , 209
relief from, 127, 317
contentment, 43–44
contractions
in active labor , 147
in early labor , 146–47
essential oils for , 315
massages between, 152
pitta support during, 156
planning for , 130, 131
position during, 159–60 , 162
in pushing stage, 149
resting between, 129
stimulating, 127, 203
timing, 129, 157, 158–59
in transition stage, 148
vata support during, 151, 155
See also  Braxton-Hicks contractions
cooling breath ( sitali ), 26, 104, 107
copaiba oil, 311, 313, 314, 319
coriander , 179, 199
essential oil, 313
for postpartum, 281, 286, 289, 294–95
in teas, 55, 99, 202, 214, 288
cortical stimulation, reducing, 155
cortisol, 91
cradle cap, 254–55 , 319
cravings, 85, 86, 275, 313
crowning, 124–25 , 130, 149, 160, 162
crying, 2
colic and, 249–50
essential oils for , 319
postpartum, 211
reasons for , 238responding to, 235
cumin, 21, 56, 179, 275, 278
for postpartum, 199, 281, 286, 294–95
in teas, 55, 99, 202, 249, 288
cypress oil, 313, 316
D
dairy , raw , 260
dal
Iron-Rich Dal, 294
yellow split mung dal, 260, 274–75 , 294, 295
dashamula, 197, 200. See also under  herbal teas
date sugar , 284, 298
dates, 56, 95, 99, 102, 127, 197, 260, 282, 297
Almond Date Shake, 291
Almond-Date Laddus, 215–16
Dry-Fruit Laddus, 276
Nourishing Oatmeal, 293–94
during pregnancy , 127, 128, 152, 273
Warm Yam Smoothie, 292
decision-making, 11, 14, 37
depression, 76
agni impairment and, 271
consulting professional for , 206
essential oils for , 317
hyperthyroidism and, 209
kapha imbalance and, 27, 62
over loss of child, 217
postpartum, 175, 192, 195, 204–6 , 209
during pregnancy , 105
self-care for , 66
desire
of baby and mama, connection between, 86, 106
being controlled by , 40
consciousness and, 33–34
Devani, Vrinda, 127
dhatus. See bodily tissues (dhatus)
diabetes, gestational, 103–4 , 119, 127, 313
diapers
changing, 239
diaper rash, 255–56
Diaper Rash Cream, 320
dietdosha fluctuation in, 15–16
kapha in, 28–29
pitta in, 25–26
postpartum, 179
preconception, 54, 56–58
role of, 14
vata in, 20–21
vegetarian and meat-based, dif ferences in, 269–70
See also  foods ; meals ; nourishment
digestion
Ayurvedic guidelines for , 271–72
bodily tissues and, 54
importance of, 112
lime water for , 275
of mama and baby , connection between, 248, 249
See also  agni
digestive spices, 21, 95, 112, 213, 303
digestive system, 14, 199, 260
dinacharya, 64–66
discipline, 231–32
disease
causes of, 10–1 1, 74, 96
fetal origins of, 268
three causes of, 13
Divine
grace, 83, 304
offering to, 80–81
surrendering to, 45–46
will, 34, 165
doshas
balancing, 16–17
elements of, 15, 17
in first trimester , 84–85
fluctuation of, 15–16
sex and, 93–95
translation of term, 16
weight gain and, 111
See also individual dosha
doTERRA  essential oil blends, 309
Adaptiv , 319
Balance, 311, 315, 316, 317
Cheer , 313
Citrus Bliss, 313, 317
ClaryCalm, 315Deep Blue, 314, 316, 317
DigestZen, 311, 312, 314, 317, 319
Elevation, 317
Motivate, 313, 316
On Guard, 123
Passion, 313
Peace, 315, 319
Serenity , 312, 314, 315, 316, 319
Slims and Sassy , 313
Tamer , 319
Douillard, John, 96
Dustan baby language, 240–41
dysfunction, cycles of, 2, 3, 12
E
earth element, 15, 17, 26
ectopic pregnancy , 20
edema (swelling), 103, 108, 312
Edema Foot Soak, 313
Edema Massage Oil, 313
eggs (ovum), 32, 62, 84
elements, five, 15, 17, 273. See also individual element
elimination, 271
Ayurvedic and Western views, comparison of, 250–51
of newborns, 243
postpartum, 280
support for , 101–2 , 179, 215
emotions and feelings
of baby in womb, 47
breath and, 96–97
changing, 12, 52
children’ s, holding space for , 227, 236
in early labor , 146
fickleness of, 44
identifying with, 41
nesting and, 122
noticing, 225–26
postpartum, 181, 211
during pregnancy , 85, 105
regulating, 231
rose and, 304
sadhaka pitta and, 217
water element and, 91endometriosis, 208
environment
baby in womb and, 80
for birthing, 116, 120, 130
dosha fluctuation in, 15–16
for newborns, 172, 228–29 , 248
in postpartum, 178, 187, 238
preconception, 32–33
rajasic, 76
sattvic, 75
sensitivity during pregnancy , 86
spiritual, 82
episiotomy , 135, 145
Epsom salts
in baths, 92, 103, 107
Edema Foot Soak, 313
Epsom Salt Soaks, 199
essential oils
for house cleaning, 122–23
purity of, 309
uses for , 308
ways to use, 309–10
See also under individual herbs
estrogen, 57, 58, 106, 304
ether element, 15, 17, 18–19 , 211, 228
eucalyptus oil, 101, 123, 316
exercise
in daily routine, 65
for kapha balance, 28–29
pitta and, 25
for pitta balance, 25–26
during pregnancy , 95–97
for vata balance, 21–22
F
fall, 19, 21, 61
fathers, 79, 113, 129. See also  birthing partner roles
feeling (sense of touch), 75, 76, 77
fennel, 260, 294–95 , 296–97
in baby formula, 264–65
bulb, 296
description, 303
essential oil, 315, 317, 319Herbal Chewing Mix, 289–90
Hot Milk Tonic, 290–91
for postpartum, 197, 199, 260, 286, 288
fenugreek
fresh, 284
for postpartum, 197, 199, 260, 263, 286
in teas, 180, 202, 212, 283, 288
fermented foods, 282
fertility , 32, 55, 56, 58, 62–64 , 303, 305
fetus, 31, 85–86 , 217, 218, 268
fibrocystic breast disease, 208
figs, 273, 276, 284, 285
fire element, 15, 16, 17, 23–24
flax
oil, 262, 285
seeds, 293–94
fluid retention, 27, 111, 214
folic acid deficiency , 100
foods
during birthing, 131
colic and, 249
cooked, benefits of, 270
for lactation enhancement, 259–60 , 263
preparing Ayurvedic view of, 80
quality of, 269–70
rajasic, 76
real hunger for , 112
sattvic, 75, 81
solid, for newborns, 260–61
tamasic, 77
tridoshic, 294–95
forgiveness, 50–51
formula, baby
Ayurvedic Cow’ s Milk Formula, 264–65
need for , 261–62
frankincense oil, 254, 311, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319
free birthing, 161, 165
fruits, 273, 275
dried, when to avoid, 282
Dry-Fruit Laddus, 276
for lactation, 260
for newborns, 260G
garlic, 76, 213, 263
Garlic Chutney , 289
roasted, 260, 284, 286, 296
when to avoid, 249, 283
Gaskin, Ina May
Ina May’ s Guide to Br eastfeeding,  261
Ina May’ s Guide to Childbirth,  116, 119, 120, 153
generosity , 25, 26, 42, 232
geranium oil, 315, 316, 317, 319
Gerber , Magda, Dear Par ent, 231
ghee, 278
Almond-Date Laddus, 215–16
instructions, 287
kanji, 292–93
for lactation, 260
neem, 204, 254
panchakola, 130, 137, 153, 179, 212
Panchamrit, 274
postpartum, 280, 282, 289, 291–92 , 293–95 , 296–97
during pregnancy , 127
Rice Gruel, 277
shatavari, 87, 207
ginger , 303
Edema Massage Oil, 313
essential oil, 314, 317
fresh, 264–65 , 294–95
Herbal Chewing Mix, 289–90
Hot Milk Tonic, 290–91
for postpartum, 286, 291, 293–94
powder , 56, 199, 215–16 , 291
Tahini Cookies, 297–98
in teas, 55, 103, 106, 180, 283, 284, 307
Warm Yam Smoothie, 292
God, 10, 52, 232–33
golden hour , 150–51 , 261
goldenseal, 245
grapefruit oil, 123, 313, 316
gratitude, 39, 42, 47, 80, 81, 125, 259
green tea, jasmine, 306
greens, leafy , 100, 260, 274, 282
grief, 175–76 , 217
guduchi (heart-leaved moonseed), 58, 305guests (in postpartum), 178, 186
guilt, 231–32
gum acacia resin, 215–16
gunas, twenty , 18. See also  maha gunas
H
hair loss, 204, 209
headaches, 62, 99, 108, 311, 313
heart
formation, 86, 217
of mothers, 218–19
of newborns, 243
heat rash, 254, 256, 312
helichrysum oil, 214, 315, 317, 318
hemorrhoids, 24, 181, 198, 200, 204, 317
herbal baths
ashoka, 55, 217
Ayurvedic Baby Soap, 247–48
for colic relief, 250
essential oils for , 310
guidelines for , 92
labor and, 151
for newborns, 244–45
postpartum guidelines, 181, 199–200
during pregnancy , 91
herbal chewing mix, 213, 289–90
herbal teas, 302
CCF tea, 55, 103, 180, 202, 288
for colic, 249–50
dashamula, 179–80 , 202, 205, 208, 212, 214, 287–88
herbal blends, 198–99
during labor , ratio for , 152
Mama’ s Mood Tea 1, 306
Mama’ s Mood Tea 2, 307
Moon Milk Tea, 306
Moon Milk Tea 2, 307
sweet water lactation tea, 212, 263, 288
hibiscus, 200, 207, 256
home birth, 120, 163
benefits of, 153
hospital transfer plan, 133
VCI and, 163, 164–67
homeopathic treatments, 177, 215, 250honesty , 38, 42, 45, 75
honey , 56, 61, 274, 310
in baths, 92
heating, toxicity of, 282
during labor , 130, 131, 132, 137, 153
during pregnancy , 85, 274
in teas, 306, 307
hormones
balancing, 204, 213
imbalances in, 57
kapha and, 26
mood swings and, 104–5
hospital birth, 121
Ayurvedic packing list, 136–37
plan for , 133–36
reasons for , 163–64
restrictions during, 152, 153
vata excess in, 154–55
when to leave, 147
hot packs, 181
house cleaner , DIY , 122–23
Humphrey , Sheila, Nursing Mother ’s Herbal, The,  261
hydration
congestion, 101
foods for , 57, 270
during labor , 148, 152, 155, 156
low milk supply and, 263
in postpartum, 179, 187, 201–2 , 204
during pregnancy , 275
for vata balance, 112, 278
hypertension, 103, 104, 108
hyperthyroidism, 209–10
hypoglycemia, 156
hypothyroidism, 208–9
I
imbalance
causes of, 11, 12
chronic, 98
correcting, 14, 16
defining, 15
treating root of, 301
immunity/immune system, 55, 65, 208, 272abhyanga for , 66, 181
baby’ s, 246, 258, 269
baths for , 91
digestion and, 14
herbal support, 58, 213, 303
vata and, 19
indigestion, 24, 146, 271, 311.
_OceanofPDF.com_Ayurveda_Mama_A_Complete_Guide_-_Dhyana_Masla.txt
Summarize the following text section accurately and concisely. Maintain specific details and numerical information, and use anti-repetition mechanisms:

        Add the vegetables to the cooked rice and mung bean mixture and
cook twenty minutes longer. In a separate saucepan, sauté the seeds in the ghee until they pop. Then add the other spices. Stir together to release the flavors. Stir the sautéed spices into the cooked mung bean, rice, and
vegetable mixture. Add chopped fresh cilantro and salt to taste
(avoid salt until after three days postpartum in the case of swelling;
avoid cilantro until after two weeks postpartum). Steamed V eggies with T ahini Sauce
Steaming or boiling is the best way to have your veggies postpartum,
as these methods add liquidity that helps to balance the dry quality
of vata. I prefer steaming, as the veggies do not lose as many of the
nutrients into the water as they do when boiled. Any root vegetable
can be used in this recipe (besides white or red potatoes), as root
veggies are very grounding for a postpartum mama. Tahini (sesame
seed paste) is delicious and rich with calcium—a critical postpartum
nutrient, especially for nursing mamas. This veggie and tahini
combination is best served after two or three weeks postpartum. Ingredients
For the steamed veggies:
½ cup cubed yams
½ cup peeled, cubed beets
½ cup chopped fennel bulb
½ cup cubed zucchini or asparagusFor the tahini sauce:
⅓–½ cup tahini
½ small lime, juiced
2 bulbs roasted garlic
water as needed
salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Add suf ficient water to the steamer and insert the steamer basket,
making sure that the water is below the steamer basket. Place yam and beets into the steamer basket. Cover with lid, and
steam the root vegetables over medium heat for twenty to twenty-
five minutes. Add fennel and zucchini to the steamer basket and steam until all
vegetables are very soft. Separately, blend all ingredients for tahini sauce, adding water 1
tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches the desired consistency. Serve veggies topped with as much tahini sauce as desired. Sautéed and Stewed Apples
A cooked apple serves as a gentle daily cleanse for the digestive
system. It supports regularity, strengthens digestion, lowers acidity
and excessive hunger, boosts immunity to prevent most colds and
flus, and is a simple and delicious way to start the day. Apples are best eaten starting seven to ten days postpartum. Prior to that, stewed dried fruits that are rich in iron (such as raisins,
dates, and prunes) are recommended. You can follow this apple
recipe and substitute iron-rich fruits for the apples. Ingredients
1 large apple
1 tablespoon ghee
3–5 saf fron threads
1 teaspoon cardamom
3 cloves
½ teaspoon fennel seeds
3 soaked dates (optional)
3 soaked prunes (optional)
¼ cup water
Instructions
Peel the apple and cut it into bite-sized pieces. In a pan, add ghee with saf fron, cardamon, cloves, and fennel
seeds. Sauté the spices in the ghee for about two minutes to enhance flavor
and extract their medicinal potency. Add the apples, stirring them occasionally as you let them sauté for
three minutes. ( Optional:  sauté dates or soaked prunes along with
the apples. ) Add ¼ cup of water and then cover until the apples are soft and
transparent. Tahini Cookies
Sesame is revered in Ayurveda as an ojas builder and breast milk
enhancer; its naturally balanced composition of qualities makes it a
tonic for increasing strength and immunity. High in healthy fats fromthe oily sesame seeds, tahini paste nourishes and strengthens
nervous, muscle, and fat tissue. Because tahini is also high in
calcium, it supports the maintenance of bone strength. Its earthy
quality and magnesium content help soothe and relax tension in the
muscles, allowing you to unwind after a period of stress. Enjoy these
tahini cookies throughout pregnancy. Resume this nutrient-filled treat
again after two weeks postpartum. Ingredients
1 cup tahini
2 cups oat flour
1 cup sucanat
2 tablespoons yogurt or apple sauce
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ginger powder
2 teaspoons black and white sesame
seeds, plus extra for topping
1 tablespoon shatavari powder (optional)
Instructions
Mix all ingredients together, adding one at a time in the order listed. Make little balls with the batter and gently flatten with a fork on a
greased cookie sheet, leaving space between. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for twelve to fourteen minutes and
let them cool completely. Mama Jill’ s Cookies
This is a delicious, nourishing cookie recipe from my sister ’s
husband’ s mama. Enjoy throughout pregnancy and after six weeks
postpartum. These cookies are the perfect ojas booster. My family uses
husked almond flour and ghee to nourish the tissues and maple
syrup to nourish vata dosha. Feel free to play with added ingredients
such as dates instead of the chocolate chips, black sesame seeds,
and nuts. Ingredients
¼ cup coconut oil or ghee
¼ cup date sugar or maple syrup
1 spoonful yogurt (vegan is fine too. ) 1½ cups almond flour
2 tablespoons coconut flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Mix wet ingredients in one bowl, dry ingredients in another, then mix
together. Spoon dough out onto a baking tray in small scoops. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for nine to twelve minutes. My little love,
Every moment with you is so, so precious. I am seeing how time moves so quickly
as I watch you shift and change and grow each day. Your smile lights up my life. The new little sounds you make;
your wiggles and squirms;
your beautiful blue eyes;
the way you look at the world
gives me a clearer perspective
of the newness,
the presence,
the gifts
of each moment. You are this precious little soul
that has somehow been entrusted in our care,
and it is the greatest privilege I’ve ever had:
to get to love you. You are the smallest you will ever be, in this moment. The joy and the heartache that comes with loving you so much. It is the sweetest experience: getting to be your mama. Thank you,
for being the easiest thing to love. OceanofPDF. comBenecial Herbs and Essential Oils 9 
The medical model of care has given us ways to treat acute conditions, but
allopathic medicine often leaves us with a trail of side ef fects that may
complicate our situation even more. Pharmaceuticals treat symptoms but
often don’ t address the root cause of an imbalance, meaning that we
become dependent on using these medicines in order to feel okay. Natural
plant-based medicine helps to ease the discomfort of symptoms while
simultaneously treating the root cause of the imbalance, leading to
sustainable health and healing in the body and mind. Using herbs and oils as part of your daily routine, as outlined in this
chapter, will bring astounding abundance into your life, as that is the ener gy
of Mama Nature. She helps you to heal in a holistic way, nourishing your
mind, body, and emotions. Not only will the plants discussed in the next
pages deliver their medicine into the tissues of your body, but their
energetic blueprint also leaves a mark on your ener gy field. Think of each
plant as a personality; as you spend time with them each day you will begin
to develop a relationship and understand the ener getic qualities of each. Ayurvedic plant-based remedies can support you in the journey of
motherhood, whether you are using these botanicals to prepare your womb
for conception, to address occasional or acute imbalances during pregnancy,
or for supporting healthy lactation, balanced mood, and restful sleep
postpartum. The chapter also discusses oil remedies for labor and birth, and
then for supporting your little one as you welcome them into the world. In addition to the herbs cited in this chapter, you can refer back to Krsna
Jivani’ s “Light on the Sacred Window” in chapter 6 (see the sidebar on this
page ), along with “Postpartum Spices and Herbs” in chapter 8 (see this
page ), for other staple herbs that are highly recommended postpartum. HERBAL ALLIES FOR PREGNANCY
AND THE POSTPARTUM
WINDOW
The herbs described below are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding and
can be made into teas to be consumed daily or as needed. Drinking herbal
teas during pregnancy is an easy way to boost nutrients so that you can
grow a healthy babe. During the postpartum period, herbal support can
provide nourishment for your body to heal; teas should be made with a ratio
of 1 teaspoon of herbs to 8 cups of water to keep their hydrating properties. If you are using the powdered form of the herbs, especially for the roots,
you can make a decoction by boiling 1 teaspoon of the powder in 2 cups of
water and boiling until you have just one cup of water left. ASHWAGANDHA ROOT
Ashwagandha root is a rejuvenative and an adaptogen—it helps the body
adapt to stress and intense changes. The word ashwagandha  translates as
“strength of a horse”—ashwaganda is renowned for its ability to enhance
strength and vitality. It also supports healthy sleeping patterns, reduces
stress, and supports the immune system and the health of the reproductive
systems for both men and women. FENNEL SEED
Fennel is medicine for the gastrointestinal tract, easing cramping, gas, and
bloating. In addition to its many digestive benefits, fennel seed has been
used for boosting fertility, alleviating water retention, and facilitating a
healthy supply of breast milk in nursing mamas. GINGER
Ginger ’s warm, soothing qualities make it one of the most well-known
medicinal plants. Celebrated not only for its spicy flavor that stimulates the
palate and supports digestion, ginger also of fers relief for expectant mamas
by easing morning sickness and nausea. NETTLES
Nettle contains a rich supply of vitamins and minerals and is a powerful
support for the nervous system. From an Ayurvedic perspective, nettle
serves as a nourishing and rejuvenative tonic—particularly for the kidneys
and adrenals. The herb increases ojas (vitality), making it useful for mamas
who need extra nourishment during pregnancy and breastfeeding—but
nettles have astringent properties, so new mamas should wait at least six
weeks postpartum to resume nettles in their diet. OATSTRAW
Oatstraw is an incredible herb for soothing the nervous system (similar to
oats) and is thus a perfect tonic for pacifying vata. Rich in calcium,
magnesium, and B vitamins, it is a nutritive tonic for the whole body. Make
oatstraw into a tea whenever you feel fatigue, nervous exhaustion, anxiety,
stress, low ener gy, unsettled sleep, or insomnia. Oatstraw is the perfect
herbal ally during pregnancy and in your first forty-two days after giving
birth. RED RASPBERRY LEAVES
Throughout history, herbalists and midwives have turned to red raspberry
leaf tea to ease discomfort during menstruation, pregnancy, and labor. As a
mineral-rich remedy, red raspberry leaf is especially valuable in the last two
or three months of pregnancy, because of its ability to strengthen the uterusprior to giving birth. Many mamas continue to drink red raspberry leaf tea
after childbirth because of the way it helps restore the reproductive system
and continues to nourish. ROSE
Rose—whether it be petals used in teas or rosewater for drinks and
flavoring—is medicine for the heart and mind. Rose will support mama in
processing her emotions so that they are well digested and integrated into
her being. Rose also brings the ener getic experience of feeling God’ s grace
in our lives, and thus a feeling that life is happening for you, not to you. SHATAVARI
The literal translation of shatavari  is “she who possesses one hundred
husbands. ” Shatavari is an adaptogen—it helps the body adapt to its
circumstance, bringing the body back into a state of balance, whether that
means resisting stress when needed, giving ener gy when depleted, or
increasing milk supply based on the baby’ s need. It has been used in
Ayurveda for thousands of years to support female reproductive and
maternal health. Shatavari is helpful in regulating menstrual cycles because it supports
estrogen and the luteinizing hormone—the hormone responsible for
triggering ovulation, crucial for conceiving. Postpartum (after 10 days or so
to assure the digestive fire is strong), shatavari can help to increase milk
supply, reduce stress, balance hormones, rebuild strength and vitality, and
boost immunity. Note:  Shatavari is contraindicated if the mother has any history of high
estrogen conditions such as fibroid tumors, cysts, polyps, or reproductive
cancers. In this case, guduchi is a recommended replacement for shatavari,
as an herb that will strengthen the uterus during pregnancy without
affecting estrogen levels. Blue Lotus for New Mothers
Blue lotus ( Nymphaea caerulea ) has been known since
ancient Egyptian times as the “flower of intuition. ” It was
traditionally used for its meditative qualities that aid in Third
Eye intuition and lucid dreaming. Although there is no
reference to blue lotus that I am aware of in Ayurveda, it has
become one of my main herbal allies as a new mother. Blue lotus has the power to cool the nervous system and
relax the entire body. As a sedative and a nervine, it
provides a calming, euphoric feeling. It can be a wonderful
aid for sleep and stress (hello, motherhood. ). Some people
may experience it as deeply relaxing, while others
experience it as a mild stimulant. Blue lotus has the intelligence to provide what is needed
for a new mother. How we experience the ef fects of plants
often reflects the profile of the plant itself. In this case, the
plant that is used to enhance intuition in the recipient itself in
turn uses intuition to serve the one who takes it. Blue lotus is believed to bring insight, release of fear, and
connection with the cosmos. I love this herb for new mothers
because it provides a feeling of calm, centered, meditative
relaxation that is greatly needed throughout motherhood. It
can help to promote restful sleep, calm anxiety, strengthen
breast tissue, uncover the root of your depression, release
the worries in your mind, relieve pain and muscle spasms
(such as afterpains and cramping), connect to your
“motherly instincts,” and much more. Blue lotus is traditionally an aphrodisiac, used to support
fertility and conception. But its use is dangerous during
pregnancy; only use it prior to conception, during
postpartum, and throughout motherhood. See the pages that follow for two of my blue lotus milk
tea recipes, along with recipes for two ready-to-use herbal
tea blends to keep on the shelf. —Krsna Jivani, clinical herbalist
Mama’ s Mood T ea 1
You can drink this tea as your daily pick-me-up—it boosts dopamine
levels in the brain and gives sustainable energy. Omit the jasmine
green tea in the early postpartum period or when you are choosing
not to consume caf feine. I find jasmine green tea to have a gentle,
uplifting, energizing ef fect that keeps me in balance while still
providing the daily energy I need. Ingredients
1 teaspoon jasmine green tea
1 teaspoon rose petals
1 teaspoon mucuna powder
1 teaspoon brahmi
1 teaspoon blue lotus (omit during pregnancy)
1–3 tablespoons (to taste) honey
milk or nut milk
Moon Milk T ea
During the postpartum window, drink this tea before bed for a deep,
relaxing sleep. Note:  if you are co-sleeping with your babe, be
cautious of overdoing sleep aids. If you sleep too deeply, sharing abed can be dangerous for your newborn. Use your motherly intuition
to do what is best for you and your babe. Ingredients
1 teaspoon blue lotus (omit this ingredient during pregnancy)
1 teaspoon rose
1 teaspoon chamomile
1 teaspoon passionflower (use sparingly during pregnancy)
1–3 tablespoons (to taste) honey milk or nut milk to taste
Instructions for Both T eas
Bring a pot of water to almost boiling on the stove. Leaving out the rose, honey, and milk, steep all the other ingredients
in the near-boiling water for five to seven minutes. Remove the pot from the stove, add the rose petals, and steep for
three minutes. Strain out the tea leaves and petals. Once the tea is cooled enough to sip, add honey (as honey should
not be heated). Enjoy warm, adding milk to taste if you wish (if you are using cow’ s
milk, boil the milk with a pinch of cardamom before adding it). The following recipes suggest blends you can make to have ready-to-use
herbal elixirs on the shelf. Mama’ s Mood T ea 2
This variation on Mama’ s Mood Tea leaves out the blue lotus but
adds ginger, shatavari, and maca. Like the blue lotus version, itboosts dopamine levels in the brain and gives sustainable energy—it
can be taken as an aphrodisiac during preconception, to boost mood
during pregnancy, and to regulate mama’ s hormones postpartum. Ingredients (makes 7–8 servings)
1 tablespoon rose petals or powder
1 tablespoon mucuna powder
1 teaspoon dried jasmine flowers
1 tablespoon dried ginger or powder
1 tablespoon shatavari
1 tablespoon maca
1 tablespoon vanilla powder
Mood Milk T ea 2
This variation on Moon Milk Tea leaves out the blue lotus but adds
ginger and ashwaganda. It can be taken during pregnancy and
postpartum to ease anxiety and aid with sleep. Ingredients (makes 3–6 servings)
1 tablespoon rose petals or powder
1 tablespoon chamomile
1 tablespoon ginger powder
1 tablespoon passionflower (use sparingly during pregnancy)
1 tablespoon ashwagandha
Instructions (for Both T eas)
Mix the herbs and store these tea blends in a jar in your pantry. Use
1 tablespoon of the desired tea steeped in boiled water or simmeredin hot milk as desired. After steeping or simmering in your water or
milk, let the elixir cool down enough to sip and then add 1
tablespoon of honey, or to taste. (Do not add honey to boiling hot
water or milk, as honey becomes toxic when heated. ) Enjoy your
elixir or milk tonic while it’ s warm. These tea blends are made with potent herbs, so take them only one
to three times per week rather than daily. You can also alter the
recipes by omitting various herbs and picking and choosing others to
add, switching it up every time you make it. ESSENTIAL OILS FOR SUPPORT
AND HEALING
Mama earth has given us everything that we need to be healthy and to heal. Our world and our food are laden with chemicals. Over one hundred
thousand children in the United States get sick every year from the
chemicals in house cleaners alone. These are toxins that we consciously
invite into our homes. The smell after cleaning your bathroom that makes it
feel “clean”. Those are the chemical constituents of toxic cleaners entering
into your nose, and thus into your bloodstream, transferring into every
organ of your body within minutes. Essential oils work the same way,
though instead of having negative side ef fects, each and every oil carries
side benefits that will help your body heal. Essential oils can be used to make your own nontoxic house cleaners. They can be used to make your own natural bath salts, as well as hair and
skincare products, and they can treat chronic and acute health conditions. They are scientifically proven to heal tissues and or gans, they have
powerful ef fects on your mind and your mood, and they may even mend
broken hearts. Essential oils always seemed a little “woo-woo” to me. As far as I knew,
they were something you used for relaxation or to make your home smellpleasant. Little did I know, essential oils are mama earth’ s most potent form
of medicine. One drop of peppermint oil is equivalent to the medicinal
compounds found in 28 cups of peppermint tea. They are the volatile
compounds (meaning they evaporate quickly—and are absorbed into the
skin just as quickly) found in the bark, resin, seeds, stems, flowers, roots,
and leaves of plants, as well as in the skin of citrus fruits. Each plant, and thus each oil, has distinctive qualities and healing
properties. They are a secondary metabolite of the plant, meaning they are
not needed for the plant’ s survival but are there to fend of f predators and
other threatening influences. They support the entire plant’ s system,
enabling it to thrive. When humans use them, they support us in the same
way. QUALITY IS EVERYTHING
Because essential oil regulation is limited and standards are minimal, many
botanical oil companies can advertise that their oils are 100 percent pure
but, in fact, they may be full of chemical additives and fillers used in order
to save money and time. Unfortunately, when proper testing measures are
not taken, it is impossible to ensure that an essential oil is truly “pure. ” For
effective healing to take place, it is important to only use unprocessed oils
that are sourced directly from mama nature with nothing added— especially
when using these oils as a pregnant mama or for your babe. doTERRA  is a company that I have grown to love and feel completely
comfortable advocating for. They have trusted alliances with honest
growers and distillers. They have searched the world for the plants with the
most therapeutic compounds. They have strict standards that verify the
purity of each batch, along with third-party testing to guarantee
transparency. To ensure that each bottle of essential oil is pure and free from
contaminants or synthetic fillers, doTERRA  created the Certified Pure
Therapeutic Grade protocol. The oils and blends that I suggest below are all
from doTERRA  and can be ordered through the link provided in the
resources section of this book. APPROACHES FOR USING OILS
For acute conditions, essential oils can be used every twenty minutes until
symptoms subside, then used every two to six hours as needed. For ongoing
conditions, use two times per day as preventive medicine, typically in the
morning and the evening. You can access the healing properties of essential oils three main ways:
aromatically, topically, and internally. When essential oils are used
ar omatically, they are inhaled, absorbed through the respiratory tract and
lungs, and then circulated through your bloodstream. Aromatic oils can be
used in a scent dif fuser, or you can inhale the scent from your cupped hands
or directly from the oil bottle. Your nose is the most direct route to your
brain, which makes the aromatic use of oils one of the fastest ways to alter
your mood. The scent travels from your olfactory nerve to your limbic
system, and once in the limbic system it triggers a response in your brain
based on memories and experiences, of fering immediate benefits that can
be uplifting, renewing, soothing, calming, or ener gizing. To use oils topically, you put the oils directly on your skin or diluted in
a carrier oil; the oil gets absorbed into your bloodstream and circulates
around your entire body within minutes. ( Note:  There are some “hot” oils—
such as oregano, cassia, clove, thyme, and cinnamon—that you should
never apply directly onto your skin without a carrier oil. ) The tissues and
the or gans then absorb what they need, whether it is the plant medicine or
the ener getic quality of the plant, such as “calm” or “ener gize. ” When using
essential oils for your little one, always dilute 1 drop of oil per 1 tablespoon
of a carrier oil such as olive, sweet almond, sesame, or coconut oils. You can apply oil topically to any area of pain or concern (dilute as
needed), or apply more generally under the nose, at the back of neck, to
forehead, or to wrists. To affect the entire body, apply oil to the bottoms of
feet, spine, or navel. Add a warm compress or massage into tissues to drive
the oils deeper, if you wish. You can also add 6–8 drops of essential oils to
bath salts before adding them to your bath. Pure essential oils can also be taken internally : remember that oils are
what give plants and fruits much of their flavor. Because our bodies are
already designed to metabolize and process plants and fruits, we are
consequently equipped to metabolize essential oils (when taken in
appropriate doses), which have higher concentrations of the natural
compounds. When taken internally, the oils are absorbed into systemic
circulation via the digestive tract. As lipid-soluble compounds, essential oils
can easily be transported to all the body’ s organs, even the brain. Note:  Not
all essential oils are safe for internal use, and I only advocate the use of
doTERRA ’s essential oils internally. To use an oil internally, put a drop under your tongue, hold for a few
seconds, and then swallow. You can also dilute a drop of oil by adding it to
a teaspoon of honey, and then adding that to warm water. To send the oil
directly to your digestive system, put a drop of oil in an empty veggie
capsule and swallow. MAMA MUST-HAVES
The next few pages provide an outline of the oils that I would personally
suggest to have on hand for common conditions that a pregnant, birthing,
and postpartum mama might experience, as well as essential oil solutions
for your babe. PREGNANCY
Copaiba. Take 1 drop under the tongue morning and evening for
headaches and nervous system support. doTERRA  DigestZen blend. Take 1 drop internally when needed to
relieve nausea and morning sickness, as well as indigestion. Lemon. Use aromatically to help with nausea and for its energizing
and uplifting ef fect. Frankincense. Take internally to tone and strengthen the uterus,
and for its emotional ef fect of calming the nervous system (helpingus to “be here now”). Peppermint. Apply topically for headaches, sore muscles, and
tension; inhale as an aromatic to relieve indigestion and nausea; use
for cooling if you are feeling overheated. LABOR
Lavender and clary sage. Diffuse lavender and clary sage together
to promote relaxation and stabilize contractions. Lavender and frankincense. Lavender and frankincense, used
topically with a carrier oil, can be used to promote skin integrity of
the perineum throughout the birthing process. They can be applied
topically toward the end of pregnancy and during birth to help
prevent tearing.
Seven to ten days postpartum.
What is the recommended time to start eating apples?
Omit essential oils during pregnancy, except for a few specific oils mentioned in the text.
What is the recommended time to start using essential oils during pregnancy?
At least six weeks postpartum.
What is the recommended time to resume eating shatavari after giving birth?
Steaming is recommended as it preserves more nutrients.
What is the recommended method for cooking vegetables during postpartum?
Inhale the scent, apply topically, or take internally, as needed.
What is the recommended way to use essential oils during labor?
Postpartum, at least six weeks after giving birth.
What is the recommended time to start using shatavari for milk supply?