Childbearing Year

Fertility Herbs - Red Clover, False Unicorn, Vitex...

I found your site and I had some questions about herbs that I was wondering if you had the answer to.  I have been trying to conceive for 11 years.  I am now 37 years old.  I've tried the medical treatments and they didn't work for me, so now I'm trying the natural route.  I have unexplained infertility though my doctor found very mild endometriosis, some fibroids and I had a burst ovarian cyst over 12 years ago, which might or might not have to do with my trouble conceiving.  I am doing research and I see some many herbs that can help, vitex, maca, red clover, false unicorn root and many more.  For unexplained infertility, which are the best herbs to try?  How many can I take at once?  Are there any that will interact with each other?   Thank you Simple is better.  This is the opinion of some, myself included.  The top herb I know for unexplained lack of conception is Red Clover blossoms prepared as an infusion.  Susun Weed writes in this article on herbs for fertility:

"One of the most cherished of the fertility-increasing plants is red clover (Trifolium pratense). Common in fields and along roadsides, it has bright pink (not really red) blossoms from mid-summer into the chilly days of fall. A favorite flower of the honeybees, the tops (blossoms and appending leaves) are harvested on bright sunny days and eaten as is, or dried for medicinal use. The raw blossoms are delicious in salads and nutritious when cooked with grains such as rice or millet.

"To make a fertility-enhancing infusion, I take one ounce by weight of the dried blossoms (fresh won't work for this application) and put them in a quart size canning jar. I fill the jar with boiling water, screw on a tight lid, and let it steep at room temperature overnight (or for at least four hours). Dozens of women have told me that they had successful pregnancies after drinking a cup or more (up to four cups) a day of red clover infusion.

"It is especially helpful if there is scaring of the fallopian tubes, irregular menses, abnormal cells in the reproductive tract, or "unexplained" infertility. It may take several months for the full effect of this herb to come on and pregnancy may not occurs until you have used it for a year or two. You can improve the taste by including some dried peppermint (a spoonful or two) along with the dried clover blossoms when making your infusion. Treat the father of the child-to-be to some red clover infusion, too!"

False Unicorn root might be helpful, and I don't know of contraindications with the Red Clover.  I consider it more of an herb to take as needed, whereas the Red Clover I see as a long term food-like herb.   Vitex berry tincture I think can be wonderful when unopposed excess estrogen increases ovarian cysts and fibroids and endometriosis.  Also, when conception happens or appears to happen but is lost as early as the first few weeks because progesterone levels do not stay high enough.  Again no contraindications that I know of with the above two herbs. Maca I consider an exotic plant that was food to a people and is now being marketed by drying a tiny piece of the root and stuffing into a capsule.  I would favor rich root foods that are grown close to home, even if Maca :), so long as it is prepared in your kitchen.  I do not recommend capsules of anything. You can read Susun Weed's thoughts on the importance of Simples. Let me know if I can help with anything further! Blessings, Karen Joy [email protected] www.wisewomanweb.com

Conception after "Blighted Ovum" Miscarriage

Q: I am 41 and just miscarried a "blighted ovum" at 12 weeks.  I went in to the dr. for my regular 9 week check up and she did an ultrasound. There was a sac but no baby.  I elected to go natural and walked around for 3 weeks before taking Blue Cohosh.  I needed to know that there was truly no hope.  Once my breasts were back to normal and I was no longer sick, I knew.  The miscarriage was AWFUL, painful and long!!!  Anyway, getting pg is not a problem for me.  This was my sixth pregnancy. I usually get pg the first time.  I need to know if there is ANYTHING I can do at my age to  prevent (if possible) another blighted ovum.  I lost another baby at 4 months when I was 37.  I have four healthy children and had no reason  to expect to be "high risk".  My dr. was even shocked and we really found no reason that I lost Ryan.  I thought "this time" I would not have to go through it again and I didn't....instead it was a blighted ovum.  I big on herbs and natural methods.  I'm questioning whether or not to attempt another pgy at my age....but I'm really "healthy as a horse" and have no problems other than the two losses I mentioned.

Thank you for your help!

   

   

A: Hello, thank you for writing.  If you are healthy as a horse, at 41 I see no reason for you not to try again.  Other than of course the pain this possibility brings.  As we get older our chances of conception and holding the pregnancy may decrease, but there are many into their 50s who are successful.  And there are many women in their early 40s with better chances of a healthy pregnancy than one in their early 20s.

I do not know of a particular herb that counters the chances of another blighted ovum, just the foods, lifestyle choices and herbs that can increase our chance of a healthy conception, pregnancy and birth.  You can read some in Susun's article Fertility After Forty.

I second the Red Clover blossom infusions, and once pregnant the Red Raspberry and Nettle leaf infusions.  I also highly value yoga, specific to pregnancy (like in Jeannine Parvati Baker's Prenatal Yoga), and the incredible power of positive thinking.  Like many things in life, misfortune may just happen, or it may happen for reasons we will never understand.  If you are willing to brave again the possible pain I fully support you in knowing the likely joy and going forward!!

Please let me know if I can help further in any way, anywhere along your journey.

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

       

         

Conception After 40 and Seizure Disorder

Q: Dear Susun,

I have seen your article regarding childbirth after forty and plan to follow your advice. I thought I'd ask you a few questions specific to my situation to see if you have any other advice. 

I have recently had a yearning to have another child--I have two, five years old and almost 3. had no problem getting pregnant with them, though an earlier pregnancy was ectopic (they believe, never could find the baby on ultrasound--gave me methotrexate to expel any tissue remaining). I will be 44 in Dec but still feel very healthy and fit. My biggest vice of the past couple years has been 2 or 3 cups of coffee a day and I have for the past 6 months been working out vigorously. If I were indeed to start trying again, I would focus on doing all I can nutritionally to conceive a healthy child and would prob cut back a bit on the exercise. I will also take the herbs you recommend.

I have a seizure disorder and take one of the safest meds out there--lamotrigine. Both of my children are healthy and bright and I breastfed both--still am breastfeeding the almost 3 yr old once a day or so.

Question finally is, anything else you think I should take given my health issue (very well controlled--2 grand mal seizures with first pregnancy early on but forgot to take my meds, none with second and only one since bc of med lowering and other extenuating circumstances. I guess I am scared that I am "tempting fate" bc I already have 2 healthy children and worry my age will make another pregnancy more high risk somehow, though I look and feel young! My husband and myself would find a baby with challenges difficult to say the least, although I feel bad saying that. Any words of wisdom or advice for additional herbs to take? 

Thank you,

A: Any of us at any age take that risk. If you are wishing a child I encourage you to consider what is too much to handle, are they things that can be tested for early in  conception, and if you found specific issues what would you two choose at that point? Besides what Susun writes in the article I do not have further herbal suggestions to change your percentage risk. I imagine this is a hard decision, I wish I could help more.

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

Q: I am 44 and in good health and am trying to get pregnant--have tried for only 3 mos. My naturopath who I trust and think is a great doctor--after talking with me today at my visit, "prescribed" 1 tsp of phytoest diluted in water 2 times daily on day 1-14 of menstrual cycle and 1 tsp twice daily of phyto progest on day 15-28 of cycle along with prenatal vitamins, omega 3's, lunaception and something called pregnenolone, to help me conceive. Was wondering if those supplements (specifically the phytoest and phytoprogest by Wise Woman Herbals which is what he sold to me) IN YOUR OPINION make sense for someone looking to get pregnant at 44. I have no known issues with fertility and have a 3 and a five year old currently, although periods seem lighter than before (when younger) and I have some spotting before it starts which I don't recall Also my premenstrual symptoms-sore breasts, irritability, etc. seem to have gotten "lighter" for lack of better word. Cycles are usually somewhere between 28 and 33 days I know you can't diagnose, treat, etc. My children took 3 (1st) and 1 mos (2nd) respectively to conceive so I'm now over that timeline but I am older!!

as I said, I do trust him very much but just remembered I had emailed you and thought I'd ask.......... any info would be helpful

Thanks

A: Hello again!

First, I am curious about the pregnenolone, after reading here:

Due to its antagonistic effects on the GABA receptor in the central nervous system, pregnenolone therapy may be contraindicated in people with a history of seizures. Pregnenolone may inhibit drugs used to increase GABA activity (i.e., neurontin); these drugs are frequently used in the treatment of epilepsy and depression.

I do not see any harm at first glance with the herbs listed in the Wise Woman Herbal product, HOWEVER myself feel odd about using things that are so vague, besides I like one herb at a time. I do not see online if these are tinctures, oils, etc. and how the are used. I myself like to know what plant, how and when harvested, exactly how prepared, etc. before even deciding if safe or not. Those products are as foreign to me as a bottle of vitamin tablets.

So you ask me if it all makes sense for someone looking to get pregnant. It makes sense understanding how some think about it, yes. To me and my approach to health, no. Especially as I see nothing "wrong" needing "fixing" as it sounds you are wonderfully fertile and healthy, just older. And even if I did feel you needed assistance this would not be at all the route I would go.

HOWEVER, part of helping one along one's path is following intuition, whether it makes sense or not. It feels good sometimes to trust someone and add things to our life, whether they make sense or not. I hear you trust this person. That means a lot in my opinion :)

I am not sure if this helps or not. I am glad you asked, and am happy to share my opinion any time. As well I am very happy to support you on the path you choose for yourself, whether or not it is the one I would choose for myself. We are all unique. Besides I will be curious to hear how you are doing.

love and blessings,
Karen Joy

 

Mixing Fertility Tinctures

Q: Hi Susun & Karen Joy,

Thank you for a wonderful website!

I've suffered 2 miscarriages in the past year, and my fertility specialist is pretty positive this is due to my endometriosis which is causing me to produce unhealthy eggs. I've begun a vegeterian diet in the past 3 weeks. I am going by Fern Reiss's "The Infertility Diet: Get Pregnant & Prevent Miscarriage", as I don't seem to be conceiving as quickly as I was before the last miscarriage, 6 mos. ago.

I've just ordered tinctures of the following herbs: nettle, rasberry leaf, false unicorn root, wild yam root, & burdock. I currently drink nettle tea every other day. I think if I can detox my liver, heal,subdue, or prevent further endometriosis, and get my total body into better health, I will successfully conceive and carry a pregnancy. I'm not sure what the dosage amounts of each tincture should be, if they should be taken together or if there are contraindications, and what other details I should know about taking these tincures. I chose these herbs because they're traditional medicine to my family's southeastern native tribes. Unfortunately, no one left in my family has much natural medicine advice.

My husband suggested these are likely to agree with my body based on genetic memory.

I welcome any advice you can give on how I should administer, and what more I can do to learn about herbalogy.

Thanks!!

 

A: Hello, so wonderful you care so deeply for your health, and being proactive about what you can do. I love your idea of finding the plants that might be more familiar to your family history, and those you mention are wonderful women's herbs. I can speak best about the herbs I am most familiar with, as well as the approach to health I most prefer - the Wise Woman Tradition.

I hear your concern, and hear you have endometriosis. My approach then at this point would be to support your health, nourish it so it works most optimally. Like you then I would look toward overall reproductive health and your liver health. And like you I love both Burdock, as well as Dandelion for liver health, though would not see it as detox, or see your liver as toxic, but moreso needing some care so it does its job wonderfully. For this I love tincture of the dandelion root, 15-25 drops in water 3 times a day, usually with meals. It does not need to be with food; I do it this way because it has the added benefit of helping with digestion. You can do the same with Burdock root tincture :)

You mention Nettle and Red Raspberry leaf. I do not use these as tinctures. I feel the value is best found in them prepared as infusions. This is a strong tea - I know you mention drinking Nettle tea so I do not know which you are preparing. I prepare infusions by putting an ounce of the dried leaves in a quart jar, filling with boiling water, capping and letting sit 4-8 hours before straining and drinking. While pregnant I love alternating these each day. Prior to pregnancy I favor more Red Clover blossom infusions.

I have heard wonderful things about False Unicorn root and Wild Yam. In Susun Weed's Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, she recommends False Unicorn root be taken as a tincture, 5-15 drops per day, prior to pregnancy. Or the infusion can be taken in sips, up to a half a cup per day. To improve fertility, Susun recommends:
"If wild yam is taken in small doses (a cup of tea or 10-20 drops of the tincture daily from onset of menses until mid-period) it increases fertility!"

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Dear Karen Joy,

Hoping you can help me ascertain what's going on with my body since taking the tinctures & teas. Can you let me know what you think about this result? Thanks!

I've been on a vegeterian diet for over a month, off of meat & dairy products for 3 weeks, and I took wild yam root, false unicorn, & raspberry leaf tinctures & nettle tea for 2 weeks this month before & during my period. My period was abnormally long (10 days) and since it's stopped I'm still having an unusual discharge, not blood, but not normal cervical mucus. I'm very concerned to know if this could be resulting from a detox or from something else. I need to know what's causing this discoloration (and it appears to be very small amount of clotting) a week after my period has finished. Since I observe religious laws that prohibit me from having marital relations until my period is a completely over, I am wondering if this is still part of a period or if it's something else. Do you have any idea?

Thank you so much for your wise counsel.
Blessings

 

A: I see you wrote this 5 days ago. How are you today? Is there still discharge that you are concerned about? I can not answer for sure what it is, though know myself that dramatic changes in diet can affect us. I do not consider this a detox however.

love and blessings,
Karen Joy

 

Q: Hi Karen Joy,

Somehow I missed this email from you; I'm so sorry I didnt see it and reply sooner! I did take your advice about limiting the number of herbs I take on at once. Since last cycle I just stuck with the false unicorn root tincture, since all the literature I read says that is a sure-fire way to help endo. I also started adding some Vitex tincture, according to a 'Tayler Tonic' recipe I found online. So this month my usual 27 day period switched to 31 days. But today is my 9th day of menstruation and its just as heavy as ever! I'm concerned. I just don't know what this means. I've rarely had a period longer than 7 days, esp. this heavy. Any idea what may be happening? I'm trying to continue my basically vegeterian and lactose-free diet as well. I read that a whole foods diet (and avoiding fat, fried food, caffeine & alcohol) will help ease the stress I put on my liver and the liver can help eliminate some of the endo! I don't know if that's true but it sounds good.

Would love to know what you think about if these extra long periods are health or not.

Thanks so very much,

 

A: It is great to hear from you. It is hard to know what is causing the change in what is familiar in your cycles. You have made lots of changes - the ones I know about being the use of Vitex tincture, False Unicorn root tincture, no more dairy, no more meat. Last cycle too you were working with some herbs that were new to you. Your last cycle lasted 10 days, so perhaps this did as well? So this change could be related to one or several of the above changes, other changes we are less aware of at the moment, or something else entirely, just coincidental. I can not answer this. The bleeding itself likely will not harm you, it is the cause we need to know to know of risk. When we do bleed excessively we can lose more iron, and the resulting anemia can itself allow us to bleed more. Your amount of bleeding I doubt will have yet affected this, but to be sure I would myself increase iron rich foods in your diet. You have eliminated a great source of this - red meat.

It seems originally your concern was that you had not conceived in a few months so you made changes to your diet and herbs and now are having abnormal cycles where they were once fine. Is this true? It takes time after a miscarriage for us to adjust. This may have been the only hindrance and no change was needed.

Also, lots of people have their own ideas about what is healthy for a person or not -lifestyle, foods, herbs. I can offer mine but some would contradict what you read elsewhere. It is you who have to find this out for yourself, what is best for you. One person's ideas (even my own :)) can not be right for everyone.

My feeling about endo and liver and immune health, is that the more vibrant a body is, more vital, more resilient, the better it is able to process what is normal and natural in life. Stressed livers and immune systems have a harder time and may leave one more prone to endo. However, and this is important, this does not mean that one with endo has a weaker immune system or liver health than one without!! There are many other unseen factors I am sure, due to our genes and environments we lived in. I just mean the stronger our immunity and the stronger our liver and the more vital our hormone health the better we are.

That said then I would want to nourish our liver and our immune system. If one were weak we want to encourage the person to get stronger by working and by feeding her foods that she can build with. If our liver, whose job it is to process out what is not needed in our body, is stressed, I would favor feeding the liver rather than trying to keep it from working. I do this with liver nourishing foods and herbs. To keep your herb protocol simple still I would then focus on bitter foods - greens that are bitter, dandelion is a wonderful one! Same with our immune system, I would focus on nourishing it with good foods. For healthy hormone function I am of the strong belief we most need healthy fats - to me this comes from uncooked extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, raw but soaked or sprouted nuts and seeds, and organic free ranging meats and dairy products.

I know, just another set of ideas for you to choose from. I trust in time you finding what is best for you. It would be my guess the changing cycles are more likely to be a result of your changing diet and herbs. I had distressing changes when I went vegan. However, there are some things that can cause changes in our cycle that can be harmful if they continue - fibroids or endo in some places, uterine polyp, uterine cancer. I would not guess these for you, but must acknowledge I can not know with out tests that only a doctor can do. It is up to you if you feel those tests are necessary right now. Any moment in life we may be walking with a life threatening condition. We must choose when and how often we wish to rule those possibilities out, to the best of our ability.

Please continue to write as you wish. I do have many opinions, but most wish to support you to find what you feel is best for you. I will be curious to hear how you are doing. I will wonder, and would love to hear back.

love and blessings,
Karen Joy

Nourishing and Letting Go

Q: Hello angel Karen Joy,

Thank you so much for taking the time to reply to me.

Also I have gone ahead and ordered Susun's Books - Menopausal, HealingWise, Childbearing Year; and Natural
Children and I am really excited to get reading.

I also have joined the wonderful forum.

Since you have asked me to go ahead and ask questions, I am going to. It seems that I need
to be told a few times before I get it, but here goes.

This is my plan for a successful pregnancy, Please advise okay.

(1) Drink my nourishing herbs. Red Raspberry Leaf, and Nettle.

(2) Drink Red Clover also as from my deduction it is a good fertility enhancer and a good
hormone balancer.

I honestly think I am not able to keep the baby because of my hormones level.

So my question to you is Red Clover the way to go until I want to conceive for balancing
both the estrogen and progesterone? Or do you think something else.

I don't want to have to beg to my doctor for a cortisone shot. He'll probably just
say no, and my time is ticking. I have read the Wild Yam, but wouldn't Red Clover
be enough.

Also hear goes, I am still lactating and I read in one of the postings that it affects
hormones and words on that.

Thanks Karen Joy.

Love and Light

PS (I had to laugh at the name GreenTit, my gosh so many like minded people out there,
I must be living under a rock)

 

A: Yes, I saw your book order, wonderful!! So glad to have you at the forum.

Based on what I have learned up to this point, I would strongly encourage you to nourish yourself in all ways that you know, including food, rest, time, friends, solitude, etc., as well as explore any (if any) emotional resistance to becoming pregnant.

From what I have learned I encourage you to nourish yourself with infusions just as you mention below. Absolutely to Nettles and Red Raspberry, regardless of what you choose with the doctor. My personal vote is to try this way for some time that you feel comfortable before considering more invasive options. I must stress from what I know at this point, since I am not thoroughly versed in possible biological more serious concerns in this situation.

I am gathering from our brief interaction, that these nourishing infusions, plus the Vitex perhaps may go far to help you. I also think Red Clover blossom infusions may be wonderful for you. I nurse and have not come to believe over the years that this has been in any way a problem for me. I do not drink this every day, though, just about once a week. on average.

Does this answer all? I suppose basically in the end it is up to you what you choose; not being you I can only make suggestions. I hear your passion and determination.

Hormone levels that can be quantified are not the end all. Your passion and focus go far. Inviting nourishing ways into your life goes far too. And maybe at some point we can research and decide and take action and want and desire, but in the end I wonder if we are best to let go, while continuing our ways, but ultimately allow what is to happen simply happen. I want for you all that you desire!!! And yes, still you may ask all that you want to!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Dearest Dear Karen Joy,

You are so wise. And you have a wonderful way of speaking or writing to people. So very gentle and elequont.

Thank you for all your words Karen Joy. I will let go and let God. I have a personality of taking the bull by its horns and I sometimes get in my own way but I know my pregnacies weren't meant to be at this point in my life.

I just want to make sure that my body is functioning better then my previous tries. I never
once considered inviting herbs into my regime though...and have to say I feel so blessed to have been
led this way.

I once again have to say "Sister Nettle" makes me feel so wonderful, and same with Red Rasberry. I am
alternating them though. And as far as Red Clover thank you for some ideas. Do you mean you
limit Red Clover once a week or all infusions? I'm addicted to my infusions now Karen Joy
because they make me feel good.

Once again God Bless you.

 

A: I am so glad you have enjoyed our interaction; I have too. Yes, it does sound like Nettle and Red Raspberry are wonderful herbs for you. And I agree to take the approach of nourishng our selves so we are "functioning better" THEN allowing what is to happen to do so. I don't limit any of my infusions, I simply don't seem to crave the Red Clover as often. Please do let us know how things go!

Blessings,
Karen Joy

Watercress in First Trimester?

Q: Hope you are having a wonderful day. I have a question for you. I have been pregnant for about a week. I have read your book, Herbal for the Childbearing Year several times and was wondering about Watercress. I have been taking this Iron Tonic tincture mixture .... The tincture has Nettle leaf, Yellow dock root, Watercress leaf, Spirulina, Burdock root, Dandylion root, Kelp and Lambsquarter's leaf. My body has been loving this tonic as I have been a little deficient in iron. I have had four miscarriages in the past for various reasons and wondered if this tonic was safe to continue taking during pregnancy. I have been taking it twice to three times a day (It says 2-4x day) this past week. It has Watercress in it and in your book you state to be aware of Watercress during the first trimester. Could you let me know what you think? I know that with alot of mixtures, the herbs and their qualities balance eachother out. Obviously, I do not want to take anything that will increase my risk. Any information would be helpful. Thank you so very much and thank you for all of your wisdom!

 

A: Hello, I am not sure if the small amount of parts of watercress (as can be extracted in a tincture) can do the harm she warns of. Susun does not have internet to be able to correspond through email and answer you direct.

Did you have the miscarriages before taking this tincture? Do you know reasons for the miscarriages? I would first focus on caring for whatever needs you have for carrying the conception to term. Then if you do feel concern, perhaps you can ask for a tincture without the watercress. I hear the iron is very valuable to you! Perhaps there is a simpler form she or someone else offers, or you can make, that gives you what you need while eliminating the herb of concern, at least through the first trimester. Watercress is actually mentioned elsewhere in the book for a pregnant woman's iron needs.

I would also love to invite you to our Wise Woman Forum and Email Discussion Group for more ideas and support. If the source is who I think it is, she participates in the forum regularly. Even if not, if you feel such great benefit from this herbalist's preparation, I encourage you to also inquire her opinion on the matter :)

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

We are all Unique!

Q: Hi Karen Joy,

Are you the person to ask questions about conception to? In short, I have a four year old boy, had him at 41 and would love to have one more child. Any of your clients 46 and pregnant? Looking forward to your
reply.

 

A: I do not have "clients", but love to speak with people, and have spoken with many in their upper forties and have seen some get pregnant. Have you been working with any herbs or other lifestyle choices to help you conceive? Have you been trying for long? Each person is unique and I can't say for sure what is true for you, but I DO feel confidant a woman who is 46 can conceive, and with much nourishing support carry through a health pregnancy. Have you read this article on Fertility After Forty?

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Hi Karen,

I have been trying to 'lay to rest' the idea of having another child, but it just won't let go, in fact whenever it seems that I finally have a good grip on putting the idea of a second child to bed, up pops another 'sign'
that gently insists I pursue the matter a little further. I am not willing to take fertility drugs such as Clomid or have hormone injections, etc. since I have already proven to myself that the herbal approach works.
Let me explain...

After 5 miscarriages between the ages of 36 to 40, I was finally diagnosed (BC Woman's Hospital) with a blood clotting disorder that is only serious when I'm pregnant. In short, my body cuts off the blood supply to the developing embryo, hence the miscarriages. They were all between 6 to 8 weeks. When I was pregnant with ... (my now strawberry-blond perfectly normal 4 year old boy), I had to take injections of Heparin every 12 hours into my abdominal area as well as 1 baby aspirin per day. This was to keep my antiphospholipids down (thin my blood, so the baby would not be rejected). I delivered an 8 pound 16 oz. baby after a blissful 9 month pregnancy when I was 41 in 2002.

This past spring I became pregnant again, I was thrilled but worried because of my age. I dutifully began the Heparin and aspirin treatments as prescribed by my doctor. I had read up a little on herbs and had drank chaste-berry tea everyday for about 3 months and had taken Damiana capsules everyday to help conceive. Unfortunately, I miscarried just before 8 weeks. I know now that I can become pregnant with the help (stimulation) of herbs. My husband was taking zinc and vitamin E. My question is, I know the herbs will help me to ovulate/conceive but am I just simply ovulating 'old eggs?' At present, I am not taking any special herbs, just vitamins. I still have regular periods every 28 days. Would you be interested in working with me?

 

A: I am always happy to correspond with you through email. And I will share what I know, believe, or feel. As I said I do not take "clients" but love to support anyone in any way I am able. I am glad you feel that the plants can help you. I believe they help in more ways than we know! I am not very familiar with your condition so do not have a specific answer to offer off the top of my head. As I understand it all our eggs are made early on, so all are "old" eggs, regardless of our age. Please let me know how I can support. I would love to see you develop your trust in and desire to work with the plants to aid you toward your wishes.

Blessings,
Karen Joy

 

Q: Hi Karen,

Is your background in herbal healing? I would like to learn a little more about how or what you would be able to offer in the way of advice, etc. As I've already mentioned, I sincerely believe that I could make this happen. My husband keeps me grounded with the 'yeah but, what about...' discussions. His concerns are mainly about chromosonal complications of the embryo and concerns about my health during pregnancy. I must admit I have a very optimistic and positive belief about having another child.

 

A: I have been studying herbs and people for over a decade. This is my passion. I have been studying primarily with Susun Weed and consider myself to always be a student. I also love to learn from other repsected herbalists, as well as the plants themselves. Being a woman I focus on women's health. I learn as I go, as I am asked to answer questions. I do not know what more beyond what I have shared I will have to offer, but am open. I would not ask you to put all your faith in me or anyone for that matter. I ask you to make your decisions for your health, drawing on the wisdom and experience of those you trust, which may or may not be me, your choice. I also stongly invite you to our online forum for more ideas to draw from.

Blessings and love,
Karen Joy

Carob Safe for a Pregnant Woman

Q: I am trying to become pregnant and want to know if carob is safe. I found a website that talked about ancient Egyptian practices using carob to cause abortion. Do you know the validity of this?

 

A: Hello, I have not heard of this, though this does not mean it is not valid. In fact, it is recommended as a good source of calcium for pregnant women in this article by Susun Weed: Herbal Allies for Pregnancy. I would guess that if carob was used to abort a pregnancy, large amounts would be used, so much larger than any of us consume to snack. To be more sure, if you would like, you may post this question on our online international forum. Being pregnant there are many things that in moderation are fine, but can harm the pregnancy if taken in large unnatural doses. I would just watch to see how you feel, though in the absence of ever hearing concern before, I would guess that food amounts are fine. Doing a quick web search, I only see recommendations for carob as a snack that is rich in calcium, so needed for a pregnant woman :)

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

Holding a Pregnancy

Q: Hi Susun,

I am a 39 year old devasted mother who has just this weekend suffered my third miscarriage. I am a mother of a beautiful, healthy 3 year old son, and I thank God that at least I was able to conceive my son. All my miscarriages have been around 10 weeks, and for the first two the fetus did not make it through at 6 weeks, but I carried until the tenth week.

I have decided to take matters in my own hands as the doctors at emergency has basically said that I really cannot do anything about my miscarriages, and will have to suffer more losses than gains, and that my eggs are probably damaged. I cannot except that, and the next pregnancy I am going to try all that I can to produce a healthy sibling for my son.

I have read your website and have come up with this plan. I would really really appreciate any advise you can give me, as all the healthcare givers have really been discouraging to me.

I am Susun brokenhearted and I really need some hope right about now.

This son is my first son, he was a healthy normal pregnancy. I have been breastfeeding him from the get go, and am doing so right now at 3 1/2 years of age until he self weans. I have done some research and will continue to breastfeed him throughout my next pregnancy if he so wishes.

I am healthy, except since birth I have had very heavy bleeding and super painful menses, and very very painful mettleshmertz. I am constantly constipated, and this is extremely painful during moontime, and ovulation. I have talked to my physician who told me to take the laxative Prodiem for the rest of my life, which in fact I am doing right now. I was shocked that it was constipation as I have a movement everyday. I include lots of fibre in my diet still, drink lots of water and have gone through colon irrigation, but really I have noticed its during moontime its the worst especially painful in my lower right hand side. I also have a uterine fibroid growing outside my uterus at the side, and my doctor doesn't feel we need to do anything about this.

I am telling you all this because I don't know if this has a link to my miscarriages at all.

After this third miscarriage my intuition is telling me that really I was supposed to have this baby, and maybe it was the level of my hormones. Can extended breastfeeding have anything to do with this?

Also prior to this miscarriage I had gone to a Chinese doctor who had prescribed herbs and performed acupuncture for this pregnancy to stay.....obviously did not work.

After reading your website, I have come to the conclusion that I need to include the following in my diet:

(1) Vitex -
Firstly to shrink my fibroids. Is taking this for a long period harmful to my son? If it produces progesterone will I be able to conceive? Is this what I need to up my hormones or should I also take Wild Yam closer to conception? Am I able to take this in a herbal pill form? How much?

(2) Wheat Germ Oil -
For the Vitamin E content as I am aging. Is taking this everyday the right thing to do? I am taking Udos oil also. Is this okay for my son? How much?

(3) Red Rasperry Leaf
Should I be taking this for post miscarriage? Should I keep on taking this until my next pregnancy in November and throughout? Is this going to affect my son? How much?

(4) Wild Yam -
This on top of Vitex? - I read only during ovulation until the next menses, is this now until November? - Is this bad for my son? - How much?

(5) Stinging Nettle -
Should I start now and continue to my next pregnancy? - Is this going to affect my son? - How much?

(6) Is there anything I can take beside Prodiem to help cleanse my colon and safe enough for breastfeeding and pregnancy?

(7) Should I be taking anything else for getting ready for a healthy pregnany and then during, which will not be bad for my son.

Honestly what a long list of questions, and I am sorry to burden you with such a terribly long list. I am compelled to ask you these questions though and hope you will be able to advise me.

I thank you again for your time Susun, and God Bless You.

Love
A.

 

A: Hello A., I hear your sadness AND your determination to have a successful pregnancy and birth. I also hear you have really been reading at the websites, and have many informed questions.

I am a student of Susun's and help with her correspondence. I can comment on some of your questions below:

After reading your website, I have come to the conclusion that I need to include the following in my diet:

(1) Vitex -
Firstly to shrink my fibroids. Is taking this for a long period harmful to my son? If it produces progesterone will I be able to conceive? Is this what I need to up my hormones or should I also take Wild Yam closer to conception? Am I able to take this in a herbal pill form? How much?

This sounds excellent; what I would have first recommended. You may have already read about this in this article by Susun about Fibroids. You will also see mention of the benefits of Vitex tincture in this article on Fertility After Forty - which answers your other questions about this herb as well.

Another important herbal ally for women over forty who desire a child is chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castii). It has been used in Africa and parts of Europe for several thousand years to discourage the male libido. In women, the effects seem to be the opposite! It may also be a fertility enhancer. Most importantly, chaste tree is a strengthening tonic for the pituitary gland, the master control gland for the endocrine system. Daily use of the tincture of the berries (1 dropperful/1 ml 2-3 times daily) had been shown to increase progesterone--the hormone of pregnancy--and luteinizing hormone--which promotes conception. Because it can lower prolactin levels, chaste tree is best discontinued during the last trimester of pregnancy.

(2) Wheat Germ Oil -
For the Vitamin E content as I am aging. Is taking this everyday the right thing to do? I am taking Udos oil also. Is this okay for my son? How much?

(3) Red Rasperry Leaf
Should I be taking this for post miscarriage? Should I keep on taking this until my next pregnancy in November and throughout? Is this going to affect my son? How much?

Red Raspberry leaf infusions are wonderful uterine tonics, both post miscarriage and before and during pregnancy to help strengthen your uterus. Drinking them is like eating nourishing foods, in fact, many of us find that this infusion is one of the first favorites of our young ones. My son began drinking infusions with me before one year old! You can sweeten (or not) and ice this for a summer iced tea, or in winter I like to add honey and milk to this warmed infusion (but didn't give honey to my son before 9 months old -some say wait a year).

(4) Wild Yam -
This on top of Vitex? - I read only during ovulation until the next menses, is this now until November? - Is this bad for my son? - How much?

(5) Stinging Nettle -
Should I start now and continue to my next pregnancy? - Is this going to affect my son - How much?

Nettle infusions, another wonderful infusion, so nourishing for people of all ages. Like above, drinking this is like eating healthful foods. I highly recommend it though pregnancy as well, even daily, especially in the last trimester for its vitamin K's blood-clotting assistance.

(6) Is there anything I can take beside Prodiem to help cleanse my colon and safe enough for breastfeeding and pregnancy?

I personally do not have any reason to believe that a colon ever needs to be cleansed. I hear you are concerned about constipation, and I do understand this. I find for myself and family that eating less refined products, drinking more infusions, like those mentioned above, and increasing cooked greens, all really help keep things flowing smoothly. I have also noticed that we each have our own rhythm, and rarely are our bowel movements daily, except when ill in the stomach.

(7) Should I be taking anything else for getting ready for a healthy pregnany and then during, which will not be bad for my son.

Comfrey leaf infusions might be very helpful! From the article "Fertility After Forty" mentioned above:

The single most important herb for pregnant women over forty is comfrey (Symphytum uplandica hybrids). The leaves of the mature plant contain an abundance of constituents beneficial to mother and babe, including generous amounts of minerals, alantoin, proteins, and many vitamins. The minerals in comfrey help insure healthy nervous system growth; the fetus's developing brain uses the proteins. And the alantoin helps the mother's tissues become stretchy and elastic... Regular use of the leaf infusion, at least a quart a week, promotes a safe delivery by:
~ strengthening uterine muscles and preparing them to work easily and well.
~ strengthening perineal tissues so they become resistant to tearing.
~ strengthening uterine ligaments so the uterus does not prolapse
~ strengthening the bladder and increasing resistance to bacterial infection.
~ strengthening the vagina and helping to promote an environment hostile to infection. ~ providing easily assimilated minerals to prevent eclampsia and other complications.
~ helping the bones of the pelvis flex and open during birth.
~ increasing iron in the blood and thus forestalling post-partum hemorrhage.

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Hi Karen Joy,

Its me again. I had a conversation with Susun and it was great talking to her, but I got so nervous and my brain turned off that I forgot to ask her for clarification so I am hoping you can help me out.

I would like to take Vitex (for a twofold reason, one to up my hormone level and two to shrink the fibroids) BUT I read in one of Susun's articles that too much progesterone (ie. in the Wild Yam form can prevent me from getting pregnant), is this then true for taking Vitex from now until I get pregnant in November? Too much Vitex can stop me from getting pregnant?

I am now drinking my infusions daily, alternating weekly from Red Rasperry Leaf and Nettle. Is this the way to do it?

I haven't started drinking Comfrey Leafs as the lady at the health food store scared me with its controversy in that is known to promote liver cancer? Is this true? Yikes, please if you can advise me and tell me how safe it is really.

Also should I take Red Clover infusion also? I'm not having trouble getting pregnant my problem is staying pregnant, and if Red Clover is a fertility enhancer do I need to?

Also Susun was telling me something about a miscarriage prevention tonicor recipe that she had in one of her books but since I got nervous and dumb at the same time I forgot which book or is it on the website?

Thank you Karen Joy for sending me all the information that you have to date. You can't possibly know how much you have helped me through this rough time.

Love and Light
A.

 

A: Hello A., I am so glad you are feeling cared for, and you were able to talk with Susun!

About Vitex and progesterone, it is my understanding that ultimately what Vitex really does is help nourish the endocrine system so we can produce the hormones we most need in the amounts we need them. Since it has been recommended, and used for long periods of time, for those with trouble conceiving, I would not feel concern it could decrease your chance of getting pregnant; instead I understand the opposite.

So wonderful you are drinking such nourishing herbal infusions! I generally encourage people to drink one infusion of one herb at a time, which you are doing. As far as how often you alternate them, this is up to your preferences. I generally alternate each day or couple days, depending on how fast I finish my quart or 1/2 gallon jar of it. Alternating every week is completely fine too.

I know there is much controversy over the comfrey issue and lots of fear around it now. What I have learned from Susun is that the comfrey that is sold is usually a hybrid comfrey and the leaves are free of the alkaloid that is of concern, pyrrolizidine alkaloid. This is in the roots though, so this is why we only drink infusions of the leaves. There are a couple instances where people had liver problems from too much pyrrolizidine alkaloid, though none that we know are from drinking the infusions of the leaves. There was consequently a test of the leaves of various comfreys across the country finding little or none of it in them. The popularized proof of this danger, as I understand, came from injecting rats with pure alkaloid that came from a different source even, one that had more of the alkaloid in it (http://www.greentit.com/comfrey.shtm). This is vastly different from drinking an infusion of the leaves. Susun has been recommending and drinking these infusions for many years with no ill effect, and none ever reported from her many students around the world who have done the same for years. I totally understand the concern, and encourage you to research as long as you feel you need to, and do what feels right. Certainly don't make yourself drink something if you are concerned it may harm you. As well, trust yourself if you feel drawn to comfrey leaf infusions and trusting of their health benefits.

You don't need to drink any infusions, just whatever you are drawn to. The four mentioned are the four Susun most recommends for anyone regardless of situation for general nourishing. Then some are encouraged more than others and/or in greater quantities, depending on the specific situation. Red Clover blossom infusions have benefit for most anyone, though as you point out may not be as needed in your situation as Red Raspberry, Comfrey or Nettle leaves. If you don't feel so drawn to them, and prefer to stick to the two or three, then I support you in doing just that.

Susun does have a miscarriage prevention brew recipe in her Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year. I am on the road working until the end of next week. I will save your email and send this recipe when I return to my library of books :)

You are welcome to continue to ask as you have questions, here and/or at the forum!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Hello Karen Joy,

So nice of you to reply to me even though you are so busy.

I have to say I SIMPLY LOVE THE INFUSIONS. THEY MAKE ME FEEL GOOD. To my surprise my little picky 3 year old loves his iced nettle and rasberry leaf infusions, and so does my hubby.

Looking through the website I have come to the understanding that nettle everyday is a super good thing, but rasberry leaf is tonifying and I would probably use it now until through my next pregnancy.

I am hoping you can suggest more great infusions for me to share with my family everyday besides nettle? Is Red Clover a great everyday forever infusion for all? Since my little guy is so picky I have the satisfaction knowing he is getting so nourished.

Should I keep on the rasperry with them for the next year or so?

Since I am lactating any other great infusions for me, or is nettle and raspberry the thing for me?

Also I have noticed my hormones are all over the place, are any of these infusions going to help me balance me back? Or are we back to Vitex with that?

Thank you for saving the email and taking the time to send me the miscarriage brew.

I have noticed some great books with Ash Tree and am saving my pennies to stock up my library.

Karen Joy you are an angel, and god bless you.

Love and Light
A.

 

A: Hello again A., I hadn't realized these two emails were both from you! So wonderful you all are enjoying the infusions! The top herbs most often recommended for regular infusions as Nettle leaf, Oatstraw, Red Clover blossoms, Comfrey leaf, Mullein leaf, Red Raspberry leaf, and Linden blossoms. Though they strengthen us through time, they are all nourishing herbs. We often, though, alternate them for variety. This may help to with your child too.

The nourishing infusions will nourish you deeply over time, no doubt affecting change in the healthy functioning all around, hormones included :)

And now finally that I am home, the promised...

... from Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year by Susun Weed...

Threatened Miscarriage Brew
1 Tbsp. dried Black Haw root bark -OR- cramp bark
3 Tbsp. dried Raspberry leaves
10 drops Wild Yam root tincture
10 drops False Unicorn root tincture
60 drops Lobelia herb tincture

Put the dried herbs in a quart jar or four cup teapot and fill vessel to the top with boiling water. Steep until cool enough to drink. Add Wild Yam and False Unicorn tinctures to one cupful of tea and drink. If contractions continue for more than 30 minutes, add 60 drops of Lobelia tincture to a second cup of tea. Drink a cup of tea every three hours, adding tinctures as needed, until miscarriage no longer threatens.

Black Haw (and Cramp bark) sedates the uterus and can stop contractions and pain; its astringent, antispasmodic and tonic actions are best extracted in water, but you may substitute a teaspoon of the tincture in each cup of brew. Raspberry leaves are also best used in a water base, providing calcium to ease the uterine muscles and astringency to slow bleeding.

Wild Yam root contains hormonal precursors which assist the body in creating the hormones needed to hold a pregnancy; it is also an antispasmodic. False Unicorn is the herbalist's standard for dealing with threatened miscarriage; it is reported to have been successful even when hemorrhage and regular contractions have begun.

Lobelia tincture can cause profound relaxation of the uterus and the whole body if the dose is large enough. If the 60 drops recommended here does not have a relaxing effect, increase the dose; the action of Lobelia varies widely according to the preparation used and the individual using it. Burning in the throat and a mild, but exceedingly brief, nausea accompany use of Lobelia.

Increase the effectiveness of this brew by resting in bed and taking 500 IU of vitamin E every six hours.

You are welcome to ask all that you want. I am happy to help!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

Completing a Miscarriage

Q: Dear Susun,

I've spend quite a bit of time researching this on the web and many times your name has popped up onto my screen. I am hoping you are willing to confirm what I have read to be true about completing a miscarriage with herbs.

I miscarried at 7 weeks, and bled for aprox 25 days. About a month passed and I began what I thought to be a period and am still bleeding. I began researching and asking questions last week after my midwife suggested an ultrasound which showed some "leftover" material in my uterus (which is didelphic). They are recommending a D&C which I do not wish to have. I fear that it will further compromise my already small uterus and possibly cause further miscarriage.

I began inquiring with a doula and another midwife who recommended I look into using Black and Blue Cohosh 20 drops each/hour. I started the Black on Sat, and will get the blue today, as no stores near me carry it. After 24 hours of cohosh, last night I suddenly soaked a pad and passed 2 large clots followed by another clot within 30 minutes. I haven't soaked but one pad, so fear of hemorrhage is not seeming eminent. I've felt okay, no fever, very little dizziness, etc. in this entire experience. I take Juice plus, cell forte, Carlson's fish oil, and immune support with folic acid daily.

My question is: since only one incident of heavy bleeding and clotting occurred with the use of Black Cohosh, do you feel that I may have emptied all of the leftover material in my uterus? Do you feel I need to begin the Blue Cohosh at this point? Is there anything else I might look into using?

I hope you will have a few moments to answer my questions. I am trying desperately to handle this holistically and my husband is getting  impatient and worried (poor guy!). I look forward to getting and reading some of you books after reading of you. I'm kind of in an emergent situation now and am hoping for some immediate advice; I understand that I'm asking a lot and hope you feel comfortable with assisting.

With gratitude,
G.

 

A: Hello G., thank you for writing. I understand the urgency of your situation and imagine a lot has happened between now and when you wrote this. Please let us know how you are doing.

Susun does not have internet in her home to be able to correspond through email, but offers free Tuesday night phone consultations from spring through fall.

At our online forum we have a section called "Wise Woman Birth Control." I have heard of others there talking about needing to complete a miscarriage before. Even if you wish not to post, you may benefit from reading through past posts.

I personally do not feel experienced enough to tell you through email if you have gotten all you need to get out. I do however favor at least trying to do so at home before a D&C, this depending of course on the urgency of the situation. It sounds like you know the signs to be looking for. I strongly encourage you, if you aren't already, to be increasing your iron intake for a while. I would not wait until symptoms arise to start this.

I feel for you and your husband and imagine this has been quite a journey. Please do let us know how you are doing and if there is any other way we can help!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Dear Karen,

Thank you so much for getting back to me. I will look into the groups you mentioned to soak in more experiences and wisdom from those of us who have been there. This experience, as difficult as it has been, has also been a gift in it's own right. I've come to know so much more about myself and how to heal. I've noticed some signs of possible anemia, so I purchased lots of celery and spinach to juice for the next weeks. Looking forward to re-gaining my energy and balance.

I came across some Pennyroyal essential oils today and began using that. The gentleman who sold it to me suggested i begin only with 1 drop twice/day. I understand this is very strong, yet has been known to be the most effective herb to assist a miscarriage completion. I will look on the groups for info, but if you happen to know of any resources that I may look at, please forward them at your convenience. I'll also try to call Susun on Tuesday.

Again, thank you so very much for your encouragement and information.

Kindest regards,
G.

 

A: Hi G., I am glad you will make use of all those resources and that your are attending to your nutrition needs. In Susun's book Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, she writes a little about "Completing a Miscarriage":

"To complete a miscarriage, 1) have an experienced and skilled assistant with you, 2) have herbs which control bleeding on hand, and 3) use 20 drops each of Blue and Black Cohosh tinctures every hour to empty the uterus. Do not exceed five doses.

"To control bleeding, use 10-20 drops of Shepherd's Purse tincture or Witch Hazel tincture (not drugstore variety) under the tongue as often as > needed."

If you wish to share I would love to hear how things are going for you! All my best wishes.

Blessings,
Karen Joy

 

 

Q: Dear Karen, Thank you so much for your genuine interest. It feels so good to be surrounded by the many wonderful women in my life...even those who I've never met face to face.

I'm okay, but things are not moving. I've been taking the black and blue cohosh about 4 times /day. I will try doing it hourly on Tuesday. I unfortunately will attend my grandmother's funeral tomorrow, so I would rather not be focused on herbs and my uterus tomorrow.

I'm doing a great deal of juicing to try to keep my health in tact. Spinach and celery will rebuild my iron, which I suspect is low.

I'll write you again later in the week, and again, please accept my deep gratitude for your interest and assistance.

Best, G.

 

A: I look forward to hearing from you later this week G. I am thinking of you today and hope things are well. My condolences on your loss of your grandmother. I wish I were more experienced on the effectiveness and safety of using herbs for completing a miscarriage. I do feel concern always, and set back to trust your wisdom. All I can do is pass on book knowledge on this, and of course offer my care.

love,
Karen Joy
[email protected]

 

Q: Hi Karen,
I wanted to let you know that all of the herbs worked and the last "spot" in my uterus is gone! I had agreed with my doctor a few weeks ago that if it didn't show clear that I would get the D&C to avoid calcification and infection, but obviously didn't need it. Thanks again for all of your support and guidance. I am greatly appreciative you.

Best, G.

 

A: Thank you SO much for the update Gwen. I am so happy to hear you are doing well.... All my best!!!

Blessings,
Karen Joy