Herbal Teas to Induce Labor

Herbs can be used to treat various maladies and induce labor. They help prepare the body for birth and encourage regular, strong contractions. These herbs, however, should not be used before 37 weeks of pregnancy have passed. Always let your obstetrician or midwife know if you are planning to use these herbs.

Caution

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the safety or efficacy of herbs, so you must always be wary of contaminants or additional ingredients that may be harmful to you or your baby. Always check with your obstetrician or midwife before using herbs to induce labor to make sure the herbs are safe. Additionally, herbs should not be used to induce labor before 37 weeks.

Uterine Toners

• There are several herbs that tone and relax the uterus, preparing it to expel the baby and bring on labor. Along with increasing uterine tone, these herbs have other benefits and side effects. Blue cohosh can cause lightheadedness; cramp bark also relieves cramping; false unicorn root also promotes hormone production; partridge berry relaxes the uterus and relieves backaches, leg cramps and tension. Red raspberry leaf is also used as a uterine toner and is available in tea form.

Hormone Stimulants and Other Herbs

• There are a slew of herbs that stimulate hormone production to promote labor. Evening primrose oil stimulates prostaglandins -- hormones that foster uterine contractions and ripen the cervix. Motherwort stimulates the uterus. And black cohosh regulates contractions and helps create stronger contractions. It may, however, cause nausea or lightheadedness.