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BirthRite Labor Support
Training, Education and Services
September 2006 - Vol 1, Issue 4
Herbal Healing
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Learn more about
chana luba

As some of you might know, herbal healing was my passion for many years and the first step I took towards working with women. I learned the art of working with botanicals in order to learn about women's bodies and healing. Herbs can play a very important role in reproductive health and can be great allies during labor, birth and postpartum. I always enjoy sharing herbal wisdoms with women and look forward to having opportunities to use herbs often....Many blessings Chana Luba

Herbal Healing
cle field
There are many forms that herbal healing takes; simple teas, tinctures, soaks, baths, ointments, massage oils, honey infusions, burning, smoking.... The list is long, colorful and fun. Using herbs is unique to each person and the art of using herbs safely and effectively is something that takes time and hands on practice. Experimenting with herbs in your own life will help you and give you the confidence and knowledge to help others.
Cultivating Tools...
skullcap
Tinctures can be made for sleep aids during later pregnancy, some herbs that can be used are Skullcap, Valerian, Hops, Chamomile, and Catnip. Each person is different so as you get to know the plants and the people you will begin to feel what is appropriate for each situation.

Nutrative teas can be made for pregnancy to help women absorb more iron, tone the uterus and increase in minerals. Some common plants used safely throughout pregnancy are Red Raspberry, Oats, Nettles, and Alfalfa.

Stronger herbs can also be used for women that experience bleeding during pregnancy, have a sluggish labor pattern, or have heavy blood loss or hemorrhage after birth. These herbs and their usage are a bit more complicated due to there increase strength. Learning about them in a more detailed way during a class is appropriate.
Learning tools...
herrbs
A wonderful time honored herbal is the Wise Women Herbal Childbearing Year by Susun Weed. It is a small book packed with information you can trust. The book will inspire you to take healing into your own hands. Susun Weed is a herbalist with lots of experience and knowledge, it is the first book I look to. It gives me a clear and simple starting point in choosing a remedy or herb.

You can by this book and other books at the BirthRite Store. All profits made through BirthRite's affiliate store will be made into contributions to local charities.
Fall Training & Herbal Class
group at hampshire
During my training I share my experiences of using plants to aid women during the childbearing year. Many useful and simple remedies are shared. Please join me at the next Five College Area Training that will start in October ! Registration is happening now and can be done online...

A good friend of mine and past training participant (pictured left, holding a baby) will be teaching a six week herbal class focused on women's health and reproductive herbs. This hands on class will start September 18 th at Hampshire College. Registration is happening now. Don't miss your opportunity to learn from Chana Zambias of EarthWise Medicinals. She is a seasoned herbalist with a great love and knowledge of plants and women's health. She can be contacted at chanalaila@earthlink.net or 413-549-0166

Please feel free to forward this newsletter, enjoy the winds of change and be well

In peace,
Chana Luba Ertel, CD (DONA), CLD, CCCE, CAPPA Labor Doula Trainer of MA
BirthRite Labor Support

413-253-9618