Nurtured by Nature

Dear Mama,

Plants have always been our quiet companions. Offering strength, balance, and gentle guidance through the changing seasons of our lives. From preconception to motherhood and beyond, herbs can support our bodies and spirits in profound ways. They remind us that healing is never rushed; it’s rhythmic, cyclical, and deeply rooted in nature’s timing.

The kitchen was my first apothecary, using common spices like cinnamon, cumin and fennel can help with blood sugar regulation, easing digestive discomfort and boosting milk supply. Being raised in an Iranian household, saffron was always infused into meals, unaware of its medical properties at the time, now I use it daily to help regulate my mood and hormones. My point is, herbalism is not exclusive, it is timeless, and most of you have been practicing it without realising.

Below, I’ve shared some of my favourite herbal allies for each stage of the journey. How I use them, how to connect with them, and a tea blend that everyone in the family can enjoy.

With love,
Saba

Herbal Allies

Pre-Conception

Preparing the body for conception is about creating balance—cleansing gently and nourishing deeply.

• Milk Thistle – Supports liver detoxification and hormonal harmony.

• Chaste Berry (Vitex) – Helps regulate cycles and support progesterone balance.

• Dandelion Root – A grounding herb for liver and digestive health.

• Turmeric & Ginger – Anti-inflammatory allies that awaken circulation and vitality.

How to connect: Try them as warm infusions or in tincture form to strengthen your system naturally before conception.

Pregnancy Allies

During pregnancy, herbs can provide gentle nourishment and mineral support.

• Nettle Leaf – A mineral-rich tonic for blood and tissue strength.

• Raspberry Leaf – Supports uterine tone and prepares the body for birth.

• Mallow – Soothes digestion and hydrates tissues.

How to connect: Enjoy a daily infusion of nettle tea for steady nourishment,

Postpartum Allies

The postpartum period calls for warmth, restoration, and calm.

• Fennel – Supports digestion and milk flow.

• Saffron – Uplifts mood and supports hormonal balance.

• Chamomile – Calms the nervous system and aids rest.

• Tulsi (Holy Basil) – Reduces stress and supports immune function.

• Maca root – Rebuilds energy and libido.

How to connect: Sip warming herbal infusions daily and try a few drops of tulsi tincture in warm water for grounding.

Weaning Allies

As you transition away from breastfeeding, herbs can support hormonal balance and ease discomfort.

• Sage – Helps reduce milk supply and clear congestion.

• Peppermint – Refreshing and supportive for digestion and mood.

• Saffron – Uplifts energy and hormonal support.

How to connect: Brew sage and peppermint tea in the afternoons to soothe the mind and gently balance hormones.

For Children

Introducing herbs to little ones through teas or baths can support calm and immunity.

• Chamomile – Gentle on digestion, soothing for sleep and teething discomfort.

• Lemon Balm – Calms anxiety and uplifts mood.

• Saffron – Supports emotional balance and concentration.

• Oat Straw – Nourishes the nervous system, soothes the skin.

How to connect: A mild chamomile and lemon balm infusion is a lovely evening ritual for both mama and child.

Growing Together is a community newsletter with a mission to share insights into the world of holistic maternal and infant nutrition through monthly updates. I encourage you to connect and ask me questions on the topic to help foster this online community.