Most alternative approaches to fertility take a step back
from the mechanics of fertilization to address the overall state of
the body, the ground of the potential pregnancy. For example, if
the body is not producing viable eggs, perhaps the blood supply to
the ovaries has been impaired by any number of factors (illness,
emotional stress, depletion from previous childbearing, poor
diet, inadequate exercise). This problem could be alleviated by
tonifying the circulatory system, building blood, improving digestive
efficiency. Or perhaps the hormonal balance is off, and the
organs which regulate that balance need nourishment—the liver,
kidneys, pituitary, andjust about every other organ in the body, since
the endocrine system is part of a delicate and complex feedback
network.
Herbs provide an excellent way of strengthening organ
systems and improving their function, without harmful side effects.
Once the organs are working well, it is useful to apply herbs that
increase the body's ability to utilize estrogen, thus enhancing
the process of egg production. Not only will your body be in
better shape for fertilization, but it will also be wellprepared for
pregnancy. In fact, the nourishing herbs recommended for fertility
are also useful during pregnancy. The following plants should all
be taken as water-based infusions, or strong teas.
To prepare an infusion, fill a clean, wide-mouthed jar
onethird full with dried harbs, fill to the top with boiling
water, cap, and steep for at least four hours. Strain and drink one
cup per day. Refrigerate the rest. When reheating, do not allow
infusion to boil.
Red clover blossoms and leaves: Supplies calcium,
protein, B vitamins; clears toxins from blood; alkalinizing effect
lengthens survival time of sperm. Note: Do not use before or after surgery,
as blood-thinning properties impair clotting of blood.
Nettle leaf: High in iron and calcium; treats
anemia; strengthens kidneys; builds blood; enriches and thickens
uterine lining, enabling implantation of fertilized egg. Note: Do not
use if you have high blood pressure or fibroids.
Raspberry leaf: Strengthens reproductive organs;
supports digestion; supplies a wide array of vitamins and minerals.
Rotate use of these three herbs, drinking one cup of
infusion per day. After 3-6 months of use (depending on the
condition of your body at the start), your system should be strong enough
to benefit from the second phase, nudging the estrogen.
The following herbs are NOT to be used during pregnancy,
as they can stimulate uterine contractions. Add one to your regimen
of infusions, and it you don't get results within a few months,
switch to the other. These herbs are usually taken in the form of
a tincture (alcohol extract). Put drops of tincture in a little
water and drink.
Dong Quai (Tang Kwei) root: A Chinese herb commonly used
to build the female system; enhances the utilization of estrogen.
Take 20-30 drops of tincture three times a day.
False Unicorn root: An endangered species, so use only
when absolutely needed; has a long history of use as a fertility herb;
opens up estrogen receptor sites on the ovaries. Take 10 drops
in the morning.
Aside from their health benefits, herbs provide a means
of connecting with the earth. Women's bodies contain a monthly cycle
of life and death, parallel to the yearly cycle of the earth.
To fully appreciate the power of our bodies to create and sustain
a whole new life, it helps to get in touch with the source of
that power, the living earth. Knowing, gathering, and consuming wild
herbs is one way of connecting with that power. If you are
not drawn to such a close intimacy, at least be aware, when you
drink your infusions, that the plants becoming part of your body are
a gift of vitality from the earth, with enormous potential for
helping you create a new life. ————————————————————————————————
Violet Snow teaches herbal healing in the Wise Woman tradition.
She offers herbal medicine classes, plant walks, and weekend
intensives in the Catskill Mountains and in New York City. Call
(914)688-2916 for further information.
