Postpartum herbal bath blends combine a variety of herbs for you to soak in after having a baby. You can either add them directly to your bathtub or use them in a small basin that fits over your toilet. Many cultures have traditions of using postpartum herbal baths to aid recovery after childbirth.
These herbal baths are a great natural way to soothe sore and inflamed tissues, help heal any tears, alleviate hemorrhoids, and provide comfort during your body’s recovery. Taking a warm bath on its own can help you relax, reduce stress, and detoxify your body. Adding herbs amplifies these benefits and provides therapy for both your body and mind.
There are several herbs known for soothing tender perineal tissues, healing tears and episiotomies, reducing inflammation, and even shrinking hemorrhoids after a vaginal delivery. The goal of any good sitz bath is to reduce inflammation and discomfort, especially for new moms. Astringent herbs can help repair and restore stretched tissues. Each herb in the postpartum blend is carefully selected to aid various healing aspects of postpartum recovery.
These herbal baths can be especially helpful after giving birth, potentially speeding up recovery time. While your body enjoys the soothing qualities of the herbs, the calming aromas can provide mental relaxation. Here are some tips for getting started with postpartum herbal baths:
1. It’s best to take these baths in the first two weeks after your baby is born. Enjoy soaking three or four times a week during this time, but try to limit each session to an hour at most.
2. Add Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to your bath. These ingredients help draw blood away from the area after giving birth, but should not be used before or during labor as they are too harsh.
3. Fill your bath with hot water—make sure it’s not too hot to avoid burns—and wait until it’s full before you get in.
4. It’s recommended to take these baths in the evening since herbs have more beneficial effects after sunset. Many women report better sleep after a postpartum herbal bath compared to a regular bath or shower.
5. If the baths cause any discomfort, stop using them for five days and then try again.
Here are some simple instructions and easy blend recipes for a few calming and healing moments. If you like, you can add your favorite essential oils to enhance the experience.
To make the garlic blend, peel all the garlic cloves and place them in a blender with a cup of water. Blend at high speed until the mixture is milky and the garlic is completely pulverized. Strain the liquid and add it to your herbal bath blend.
