Labour and birthing tonic recipe
Staying hydrated during labour is essential, and many women find that standard sports drinks are either too sweet or contain unnecessary additives. This simple, naturopathic labour support drink offers balanced electrolytes, gentle energy and targeted botanicals to support the body through the intensity of birth.
Ingredients
1 cup coconut water (potassium - supports muscle contraction/relaxation and muscular energy)
1 cup strong ginger + raspberry leaf tea, cooled (supports circulation & uterine contractions)
1 scoop magnesium powder (as tolerated) (supports muscle contraction/relaxation, & muscular energy)
Juice of ½ lemon and ½ lime (to taste)
Pinch of high-quality sea salt (sodium - electrolyte)
1–2 tsp raw honey (provides natural energy via the sugars)
**If you are struggling with taste and smell aversions, the mag powder and tea brews may be too offensive or create an odd taste. Feel free to skip these and replace with water. Alternatively, I find adding ice or sipping via a straw helps to reduce the taste sensation.
Method
Brew the ginger and raspberry leaf tea together and allow to cool.
Combine with coconut water in a large bottle or jug.
Add magnesium powder, citrus juice, salt, and honey.
Stir or shake well until everything is dissolved.
Chill in the fridge or serve over ice for labour.
Sip small amounts regularly throughout labour to maintain hydration, energy and electrolyte balance. Many women find it especially helpful during active labour or in the hours leading up to birth.
Some actually find they can’t sip or drink anything due to stomach heaviness. If this is the case, make batches up in your final weeks of pregnancy and keep in the freezer, and then just suck on them when in labour.
In clinical and naturopathic practice, supporting the body through hydration, minerals and uterine-toning herbs is a cornerstone of birth prep. For more information around naturopathic birth prep, hit contact to submit any questions around how I can support you.
Love,
Liz
