There are several herbs which have been famous throughout history for preparing mothers for childbirth. Herbs can shorten labor and lessen the likelihood of complications both throughout pregnancy and in childbirth. The most used of these is in Europe is Raspberry (Rubus idaeus). A doctor writing in the Lancet (a British medical journal) said of raspberry leaf tea; `Somewhat shamefacedly I have encouraged expectant mothers to drink this infusion. In a great many cases labor has been free and easy from muscular spasm.'

Rubus idaeus leaves have a mildly soothing, astringent and tonic action. They help to quell nausea and are slightly sedative. Most importantly, they have a particular affinity for the uterus, and act to strengthen the uterine and pelvic muscles and help to prevent miscarriages. In addition they tone the mucous membranes throughout the body, soothe the kidneys and urinary tract and help to prevent hemorrhage. They have been principally used to encourage a safe, easy and speedy childbirth, and afterwards to help milk production and speed recovery from the birth. In the uterus the action of raspberry leaves is both relaxant and astringent. The relaxant properties tend to predominate and bring about tonic relaxation of the smooth muscle of the uterus, which acts to reduce the pain of uterine contractions at labor.

All the partus preparator herbs described at the beginning of this chapter will help.