Childbirth is a beautiful natural process of bringing a new life to the world. Giving birth to a child can be highly rewarding and can bring you a lifetime of happiness. However, later stages of pregnancy can be taxing, tiring, and even frustrating at times.
From sleeping difficulties to morning sickness, every single day might feel longer than the day before. Which prompts you to look for ways to induce labor, especially if you are overdue.
There are many natural ways to induce labor. Some of the popular ways include taking Midwives Brew, eating spicy foods, and doing physical activities.
In this article, we will explore the science behind Midwives Brew and examine whether the drink would actually help in inducing labor. We will also look at the ingredients and recipe for making Midwives Brew.
What is Midwives Brew?
Midwives Brew is a paste made of natural ingredients, that has historically been given to overdue pregnant women. Usually, the midwives make the brew and the recipe and ingredients may vary.
The origin of Midwives Brew can be dated back to the 1800s and it is also referred to as the German labor cocktail.
Years of anecdotal evidence suggest that Midwives Brew can be beneficial for inducing labor in overdue pregnant women. However, there are not many scientific studies to prove its efficacy. Available studies are showing contradictory results which can be attributed to a comparatively smaller study sample.
Regardless of the science behind Midwives Brew, many still believe that the brew could be beneficial for pregnant women.
How to Make Midwives Brew?
Midwives Brew is believed to have emerged from Europe and the original ingredient list included alcohol (gin) in it. However, the modern recipe is much different than that. The recipe may vary from person to person. Talk with your midwife or your doctor to choose a recipe that would be more beneficial for you.
Midwives Brew Recipe
Common Ingredients
- Castor oil
- Almond butter
- Lemon Verbena tea
- Apricot juice
- Let 250ml of lemon verbena tea steep in a pot for 10 minutes
- Add 2tbsp of castor oil, 2tbsp almond butter, and 300ml apricot juice
- Mix through till it becomes a smooth paste
- You may take it warm or cold according to your preference
Castor oil is the major ingredient in the midwives recipe and it is thought to have labor-inducing properties. Other ingredients are mainly added to tame the taste of castor oil and to help you take it. Even with the added ingredients, you may throw up a little bit.
How does Midwives Brew Work?
Let’s examine the effects of each ingredient in the midnight brew, to determine its working principle.
1. Castor Oil
Castor oil is a natural laxative commonly used for constipation, Castor oil works by increasing the muscle movement of the intestines. This spasming of the intestine helps the bowel movement and alleviates constipation. Similarly, castor oil may cause spasming of uterine muscles, which can help to induce labor.
2. Lemon Verbena Tea
The major function of lemon verbena tea is to disguise the taste of castor oil. It also has a calming effect, which may reduce your tendency to throw up. Additionally, it can reduce inflammation, boost immunity, improve joint function, and help reduce stress and anxiety. Which can be beneficial for your overall health.
3. Almond Butter
Almond oil is used to add more fat and oily texture to the brew. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which will be beneficial for both the mother and baby. If you have nut allergies, switch to other nut-free alternatives like coconut butter.
4. Apricot Juice
Apricots are rich in vitamin A and carotenoids and they can promote eye health. However, the use of apricot juice in Midwives Brew is to just mask the taste of castor oils. You may switch them to other fruit juices such as pineapple, mango, or peach juice.
The Midwives Brew is usually safe to drink. However, just like taking coffee caffeine during pregnancy period, moderation is key. Overuse of castor oil may lead to abdominal cramps, chest pain, diarrhea, rash, and shortness of breath.
Other Ways of Inducing Pregnancy
In addition to the Midwives Brew, there are many other natural alternatives to induce pregnancy. The methods include:
- Taking a hot bath
- Light exercises like walking and doing stretches
- Using a yoga ball
- Performing sex
- Nipple stimulation
- Acupuncture
- Eating spicy food
The methods listed above are just the tip of the iceberg, you may find numerous other alternatives to induce pregnancy. However, proceed with caution and consult your doctor before exercising any activity to induce pregnancy.
When Should You Drink Midwives Brew?
Generally, Midwives Brew is recommended for consumption after the 40th week of pregnancy. It is typically suggested to drink the tea in small amounts, starting with a few ounces and gradually increasing the amount if contractions do not start in a few hours.
It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before considering the use of Midwives Brew or any other herbal remedy during pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.
Conclusion
Due to many reasons, a number of pregnant women resort to natural remedies to induce pregnancy. Midwives Brew is one such natural remedy that has been used for ages. The major ingredient of Midwives Brew is castor oil, which can lead to the spasming of uterine walls and may help to induce contractions.
Castor oil has a bland taste which can make it difficult to take in. However, other ingredients such as lemon verbena tea, almond butter, and apricot juice may help to mask its taste. You can swap the supporting ingredients as your preference.
Talk with your midwife or healthcare provider to determine what ingredients would suit you the best. Even though the Midwives Brew is generally safe, start slow and take it in moderation.
In addition to Midwives Brew, there are countless natural methods to induce pregnancy. However, consult your doctor before exercising any of those methods. So, would you give Midwives Brew a try? What is your preferred recipe?
