Rasayana Chikitsa, one of the eight branches of Ayurveda, is a specialized therapy designed for rejuvenation, longevity, and disease prevention. When we caring for a new born we might forget to care mother but that’s important too. The postnatal period, or Sutika Kala, is a crucial phase for a new mother. According to Ayurveda, the first 42 days after childbirth determine a woman’s long-term health. This period requires specialized care to help the mother recover from delivery, regain strength, and restore hormonal balance.
Why is postpartum care being important?
It’s natural to feel aches and pains as your body is recovering from giving birth. Lack of quality sleep and higher anxiety levels hamper the immune system. Pregnancy and childbirth cause significant vata aggravation, leading to fatigue, digestive issues, body pain, and emotional imbalances. If proper care is not taken, it can lead to long-term complications like weakened immunity, hormonal imbalances, and joint pain.
Ayurvedic herbs for postpartum recovery
Shatavari – The Queen of herbs
Shatavari, or Asparagus racemosus, is more than just a plant—it’s a symbol of resilience and vitality deeply rooted in Indian culture. Shatavari boasts a sweet (madhura) and slightly bitter (tikta) taste, known as rasa. Its energy, or virya, is cooling, which helps soothe the body, while its after-taste, or vipaka, remains sweet, nourishing your system long after consumption. These qualities work together to balance the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—the fundamental energies that govern your physical and mental health according to Ayurveda.
For new mothers, Shatavari’s benefits extend into lactation and postpartum recovery. Known as a galactagogue, it supports milk production, ensuring you can nourish your baby effectively. In India, where breastfeeding is a cornerstone of early childcare, this herb is a trusted companion for nursing moms. After childbirth, Shatavari aids recovery by replenishing your energy, bolstering immunity, and stabilizing emotions during a transformative time.
Ashwagandha
Childbirth can leave new mothers feeling exhausted due to hormonal shifts and sleepless nights. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) replenishes energy levels, reduces physical fatigue, and enhances stamina, helping mothers regain their strength. Ashwagandha a revered adaptogenic herb in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, has garnered global attention for its stress-reducing, mood-enhancing, and immune-boosting properties. It is a powerful adaptogen that helps in reducing stress and anxiety, common issues faced by new mothers. It supports overall energy levels and helps in rebuilding strength and stamina. Ashwagandha is a real potent regenerative tonic (Rasayana of Ayurveda), due to its multiple pharmacological actions like anti-stress, neuroprotective, analgesic and anti-inflammatory etc.
Dashmoola
Dashmoola is a prominent Ayurvedic formulation that consists of ten medicinal roots, commonly utilized in the treatment of various gynecological issues, collectively referred to as Stri Roga. Dashmoola is primarily used for balancing the Vata dosha. It also helps with reducing inflammation and helps with postpartum recovery as well. It has various pharmacological properties, which include anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and adaptogenic effects. Research has validated the historical applications of Dashmoola, showing its effectiveness in regulating hormones, managing pain, and modulating the immune system. Its ability to balance estrogen levels makes it useful for alleviating menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, and the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, its properties as a uterine tonic contribute to overall reproductive health, aiding in fertility improvements and recovery after childbirth.
Turmeric
Turmeric, known as the king of superfoods, has been used for centuries in India as both a spice and medicinal herb. Its healing properties make it especially beneficial during the postpartum period. It aids in healing internal wounds and reducing postpartum inflammation. Turmeric also boosts immunity and helps in detoxifying the body, promoting overall well-being. Turmeric contains various antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties and is rich in immune boosting magnesium that can help you fight off infections. With its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-depressant qualities, modern science is recognizing the amazing benefits of turmeric for new moms. Ayurveda recommends using turmeric to increase milk supply, heal wounds, minimize blemishes, and reduce pain and fatigue. Turmeric can also provide nourishing and comforting support to new moms, making it an essential part of their postpartum routine.
Moringa (Moringa Oleifera)
Moringa is a nutritional powerhouse, providing essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial for postnatal recovery. It helps in enhancing lactation, improving energy levels, and boosting the immune system. Moringa is also beneficial for mental health, helping to reduce symptoms of postpartum depression. Moringa oleifera is an herbal galactagogue that is used to increase the volume of breast milk.
Additional tips for new mothers
Nutrient-rich diet (Pathya Ahara)-
- Moong dal khichdi– Easy to digest and rich in protein.
- Warm ghee with rice– Supports digestion and prevents constipation
- Dates & almonds– Provide iron and energy
- Ajwain (carom seeds) water – Helps cleanse the uterus and improve lactation.
- Daily oil massages and warm baths-Daily oil massageis extremely important for both the mother and baby after birth. It is recommended to start 5 to 10 days after the baby is born. It will help rejuvenate mind, body and spirit as well as help calm Vata dosha. The best oil for a new mother and baby is Maha Bala Oil which greatly balances vata dosha. The main herb bala nourishes and supports female reproductive health, postpartum care, and nourishes bones, muscles and nerves.
- Home life– New moms needs to rest as much as possible, so family members should be cleaning the house and cooking all the meals for about the first six weeks. The house should be kept warm, quiet, clean and comfortable in temperature and smell.
- Rest and exercise– Some mild walking is encouraged but heavy lifting and rigorous work or exercise is not beneficial because it can weaken tendons and uterine muscles and leave the mother exhausted.
- Mental and emotional well-being support
New mothers need to prioritize their health and protect themselves from infections. Ayurvedic postnatal care is focused on restoring balance, supporting physical and emotional recovery, and enhancing bonding and nurturing motherhood.
