(drawing by my daughter, inspired by St. Hildegard’s herbal genius)
By Daja, Contributing Writer
Easing Labor
I have had nine natural labors and births. I am blessed in that all my babies have been welcomed to our family in our own home and on our own terms. That’s not to say that natural labor and birth is easy. It’s hard work! But, we’ve learned a few things along the way and have a few tricks up our sleeves. One of them is my special labor easing oil. I blend this up sometime in the third trimester and have it ready for when the wee one decides to make his or her grand entrance.
I have found this blend to reduce pain, help me to keep a clear head, and shorten labor. I mixed it in a massage base of jojoba oil, but you could also use another carrier oil (such as almond or olive oil).
The Recipe
4 drops Helichrysum essential oil
4 drops Fennel essential oil
2 drops Peppermint essential oil
5 drops Ylang ylang essential oil
3 drops Clary sage essential oil
1 ounce massage oil base
Combine all these ingredients and keep in a small glass jar. Apply liberally to your hips, back and ankles during labor. Should not be used before the onset of labor.
No oil will ease the labour of anyone not trusting their bodies, fearful of labour or surrounded by others who are set on “saving” you!