Simple, safe remedies for pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, and newborns.
Now in its 24th printing. A confirmed favorite with pregnant women, midwives, childbirth educators, and new parents. Packed with clear, comforting, and superbly helpful information.
Beginning with the two months before pregnancy, herbs are enlisted to provide safe, effective birth control, or to help ensure pregnancy, even in the most difficult of situations. A special list of teratogens, including herbs to avoid before pregnancy, is included, as is a section on herbs to improve the father's fertility and reduce the risk of birth defects.
Once pregnancy has occurred, herbs are safe and beneficial allies in reducing the distress of pregnancy, including hemorrhoids, high blood pressure, morning sickness, emotional changes, anemia, muscle cramps, bladder infections, and preclampsia. Tasty recipes and clear directions make use easy and fun.
Herbs take a starring role in labor and delivery -- whether initiating labor, increasing energy, diminishing pain, or staunching postpartum bleeding -- and in postpartum care of the mother's perineum, breasts, and emotions, and the infants umbilicus, skin, scalp, digestive system, and immune system.
Humorous, tender, and detailed, this classic text is supported by illustrations, references, resource lists, glossary, and index.
Includes herbs for fertility and birth control. Foreword by Jeannine Parvati Baker.
Susun S. Weed has no official diplomas of any kind; she left high school in her junior year to pursue studies in mathematics and artificial intelligence at UCLA and she left college in her junior year to pursue life.
Susun began studying herbal medicine in 1965 when she was living in Manhattan while pregnant with her daughter, Justine Adelaide Swede.
She wrote her first book -- Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year (now in its 29th printing)-- in 1985 and published it as the first title of Ash Tree Publishing in 1986.
It was followed by Healing Wise (1989), New Menopausal Years the Wise Woman Way (1992 and revised in 2002), and Breast Cancer? Breast Health! The Wise Woman Way (1996).
In addition to her writing, Ms Weed trains apprentices, oversees the work of more than 300 correspondence course students, coordinates the activities of the Wise Woman Center, and is a High Priestess of Dianic Wicca, a member of the Sisterhood of the Shields, and a Peace Elder.
Susun Weed is a contributor to the Routledge International Encyclopedia of Women's Studies, peer- reviewed journals, and popular magazines, including a regular column in Sagewoman.
Her worldwide teaching schedule encompasses herbal medicine, ethnobotany, pharmacognosy, psychology of healing, ecoherbalism, nutrition, and women's health issues and her venues include medical schools, hospital wellness centers, breast cancer centers, midwifery schools, naturopathic colleges, and shamanic training centers, as well as many conferences.
Susun appears on many television and radio shows, including National Public Radio and NBC News.
I have a completely different worldview from Susan Weed and found lots of the stuff in here goggly-gook, but there was also lots of interesting and useful information about the properties of herbs. Though I believe God put plants here for our use, and we aren't to thank and revere the plants, but thank their Creator.
I really liked this book. I think the best advice, or the most used advice was the raspberry leaf tea. I've had a really healthy pregnancy and I'm approaching the point of getting my cervix ready for birth, so I'll definitely be digging this one out again. I do think she's a little too cautious, though. For instance, she recommends against flax, but gives no reason. I'm vegan, and it's essential for me to eat flax and to use flax oil for the Omegas it offers.
Very helpful book with plenty of insights for supporting all stages of pregnancy and including conception to infant care. I’d recommend this book to any woman thinking about, trying for, or experiencing pregnancy. Thx to my sister Daisy for the recommendation.
Now, if you pick up this book it's probably because you are interested in being pregnant and having a baby, right?
Now, why, pray tell, is the entire first chapter about how to herbally induce an abortion? Make it an appendix if you must include the info.
Otherwise, some useful information here. Susan Weed (amazing name for an herbalist) really loves red clover tea/infusion for many purposes, which I find interesting. Other parts felt slightly outdated.
Loved that this book had useful info regarding many topics: fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, breastfeeding, infancy and some great general info regarding nutrition and uses of herbs. While there was just a few outdated suggestions, most all of this knowledge is invaluable. Definitely will be referring back to this book many times!
Excellent resource, and for so long, one of the few for women trying to conceive, pregnant, postpartum, and/or lactating. Susun's style of herbalism is intuitive and folk, but accurate and reliable. I still refer back and recommend, although Dawn Comb's newer book is more comprehensive and I often recommend them together.
Book Review: Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year by Susun S. Weed
In “Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year,” Susun S. Weed presents a transformative guide that empowers women to navigate their health journeys through the knowledge of herbal medicine. This book serves as an invaluable resource not only for pregnant women but for anyone interested in holistic healing across all life stages. With its thoughtful approach and extensive insights, this work stands out as a beacon of wisdom in the realm of women’s health.
Weed’s exploration of well-known herbs such as Red Clover, Nettle, and Raspberry is particularly relevant, as she connects their properties to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and overall reproductive health. Each herb is discussed with a focus on its traditional uses, benefits, and potential applications, opening a dialogue about natural remedies that have stood the test of time. This careful examination of herbs establishes a solid foundation for understanding how herbal medicine can complement women’s health practices, encouraging readers to consider the importance of natural solutions in contemporary healthcare.
The book is particularly commendable for its comprehensive coverage of various conditions that women may face, including menstrual issues, bladder infections, fertility challenges, and birth control methods. By providing insight into both common and lesser-known issues, Weed invites readers to widen their perspective on women’s health and recognize the vast potential of herbs as a source of healing. Her accessible writing style makes complex concepts easier to grasp, empowering readers to engage with the material and make informed choices that resonate with their individual needs.
One of the more controversial aspects of “Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year” is its candid discussion of herbs that may lead to miscarriages. Weed’s decision to include this information highlights the delicate balance between empowerment and ethical responsibility in herbal utilization. By sharing such knowledge, she emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, urging women to educate themselves thoroughly before employing herbal remedies in sensitive situations. Rather than shying away from difficult topics, Weed confronts them head-on, encouraging open conversations about risks and benefits—a refreshing approach in a field that can often lean toward romanticization.
The overarching message of the book is one of empowerment. Weed firmly believes in the capacity of women to take control of their health and futures through informed herbal use. This philosophy resonates throughout the text, as she encourages readers to embrace their roles as active participants in their health journeys. By equipping women with the tools and knowledge to make informed choices, Weed fosters a sense of agency that is often lacking in conventional healthcare narratives.
However, while the book serves as a powerful guide, it may still face skepticism from those who prefer traditional medical practices or who are unfamiliar with herbal remedies. It is essential for readers to approach the material with an open mind and a critical lens, recognizing that herbal medicine does not replace conventional care but can complement it when used knowledgeably.
In conclusion, “Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year” by Susun S. Weed is a thought-provoking and informative resource that stands as a testament to the potential of herbal medicine in women’s health. By addressing both the benefits and risks of various herbs, Weed presents a holistic approach that empowers women to take charge of their bodies and decisions. This book is not just a guide to herbs; it is an invitation to reclaim health and well-being through knowledge and personal agency. Whether you are a seasoned herbalist or a newcomer to the realm of natural healing, Weed’s insightful writing will inspire you to explore the rich tapestry of herbal wisdom available to women throughout their childbearing years and beyond.
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A great resource for any woman who is interested in herbal medicines and holistic healing regardless of if they are pregnant or not. If you've read up on some herbal allies specifically for women then some of the main herbs in this book won't surprise you- Red Clover, Nettle, and Rasberry are, of course, the most common when reading about menstral cycles and pregnancy. But despite the title this book delves into herbal allies for women in any time of her life. Herbs for menstral cycles, herbs for bladder infections, herbs for fertility and pregnancy of course, but also herbs for birth control, and even herbs that are known to cause miscarriages- a brave and controversial addition, but one I think is necessary.. this is knowledge that has been lost to us, but it is not lost forever, and whether or not you use that knowledge to avoid certain herbs during pregnancy or you use them specifically for their intended purposes it is still knowledge that should be shared. We have power when we are able to take our health and our futures into our own hands.
This book was something of a hangover, having appeared on a reading list, slightly incongruously, and then not got round to. It was a curious read - taken as a 'classic' it was interesting and engaging, especially as there was little chance of personal or professional use (although I shall try the recipe for Dandelions Italiano)
Some will have a big problem with the book's inclusion of emmenagogues (as even the writer of the foreword does) I found it salutary. Generally I liked the tone of the book which seemed to lack the frankly bossy air of many US childbirth professional works, and it offended my sensibilities about not messing less than I feared - mainly it addresses actual challenges women may face rather than medicating, however naturally, normality. But not entirely. There are some downright fey bits in it (references to fairies...)
It's more of a book to whet the appetite, or perhaps to use alongside an expert herbalist.
Was recommended this book to help work through some hormonal issues. I know it is older and so some of the suggestions are no longer deemed best course of treatment (cutting cord immediately and such). While there were some good take aways in it- especially about some of the teas or infusions to take for their nutritional properties, or options for helping during L&D, I felt like I had to read it in a very discerning manner. Some suggestions were straight up contrary to what other books written by midwives and herbalists have said were safe and appropriate. It also had a section on how to get rid of an unwanted pregnancy which didn’t jive well with me personally. I skimmed past all the fae bits too. I would recommend looking into Aviva Romm or Dawn Combs book ‘conceiving healthy babies’ more.
I debated pretty hard about rating this 3 or 4 stars, ultimately I had to go with 3, due to the abortifacient recipes. I also took a star away simply due to the fact that the book is so old many of the things have been proven to not be best practices (such as cutting the cord immediately). There's a lot of stuff I just don't jive with (faeries and divas), but I suppose I'm fine overlooking those. As far as the recipes and the entire last chapter about building your herbal pharmacy, I would rate it 5 stars based on that alone. All of this taken into consideration, I certainly think any alternative minded woman (within birthing season) should own this book.
SUSUN WEED IS A TRANSPHOBE. She’s been causing harm in the herbalism world for years. Go look it up and for the love of earth, do do not support her work. A much better resource on the topic of herbs for women and people with uteruses is Aviva Romm who is a doctor, renowned herbalist and has decades of experience as a midwife. Also look at local herbalists, midwives and doulas in your area who use inclusive language and practices and are involved in anti oppression work. And remember folks, if it’s not intersectional, it’s not feminist.
Sincerely, A queer indigenous herbalist and full spectrum doula
While there is some good information in this book, I did not find it something I referred to a lot during pregnancy. When I did look, I didn't feel confident enough with what I read to make use of it due to conflicting information elsewhere. This author is known for her strong opinions. Not everyone shares her opinions so it can be awkward trusting someone you do not personally know with something so important. It is worth a read for those learning herbs and considering use during the childbearing years, but I feel it would be wise to look for other sources of information also.
The moment I read this book, my life was forever changed. After reading the first chapter it became apparent that the wise woman tradition Susun writes of was the call to return to myself, the healer within. I am forever grateful for the knowledge imparted within this book regarding the plant allies one can access during the childbearing year. Susun’s knowledge has supported my many healthy pregnancies in addition to the many pregnancies that I have been witness to as a result of this book.
This book was ... interesting. I learned a lot from it and believe I will use some of it this knowledge in the future. But there were times I felt I had to suspend my disbelief, even though this is a nonfiction guide. There were times I had to pretend I was reading a fantasy novel to feel comfortable with the suggestions of going into nature and asking grandmother plants to use their grandchildren. The information was useful but I needed more science to comfort my lack of understanding.
Herbal for the Childbearing Year was my definitive "go-to" for my pregnancies and infant years!
SO. MUCH. WISDOM. 💚
After that, my path was set and Healing Wise was next. So foundational to approaching healing and wellness. Now I have quite the collection of Susan Weed books! Looking forward to the upcoming one as well 💚🍃🌿
Very interesting book for those of us who are interested in medecine by plants and who want to go on using plants during pregnancy and afterwards. It comes with a lot of interesting uses for plants (be careful with some suggestions though, they need a bit on knowledge on the subject of plants to be used properly!).
I forgot I read this book, so I’m adding it now. Was definitely not my favorite, but I’ll give credit where it’s due. She seems very learned on the topic, and there’s a lot of information about herbs that is very helpful. To be honest, the cover image and new age woo-woo left a bad taste in my mouth, and I wouldn’t read it again.
I loved the information in this book. I did feel there were a few things that have been proven to be not as helpful but alot of time has passed since this book has been written. But the good information was super helpful and I definitely felt like that outweighed the outdated information.
I loved this book. It really appealed to my emotional roots in the semi-counter-culture of the 80's, where I spent a lot of time as a child absorbing the cool differentness of my parents and their friends.
It's also actually a useful resource :-) It describes the properties and uses of a variety of herbs in a variety of forms for a variety of problems and/or needs during the time just before, during, and just after pregnancy. While I have read other books which include herbal remedies for childbearing, I felt this book gave me a better sense of herbs as medicine and how to use them as such in a way that respects their potency and potential for benefit . . . and harm. I also appreciated the detailed instructions on how to find, prepare, and store herbs for medicinal use.
One thing I did notice was that there is not a lot of explanation of why herbs work. That is a little off-putting to the scholar-huntress in me. I want to understand why and how things work, and I like it when people experiment and find empirical evidence for what they think and what they think works. That is not the place the author of this book is coming from. The herbalist tradition, at least as she presents it, is one of inherited wisdom which can be added to by an herbalist's personal experience, but which does not really need to be skeptically verified. I respect this perspective, but it's not one I choose for myself very often.
The Childbearing Year contains a wide range of resources for woman pertaining to their reproductive health. This information includes activities, foods, and herbal supplements that can benefit woman hoping to conceive, who are pregnant, or who have a newborn child. These topics range from increasing fertility health for better odds of becoming pregnant and things to stay away from to reduce the likelihood of miscarriage through safe remedies for morning sickness and ways to alleviate late pregnancy back ache to herbs that will reduce the intensity of post partum depression and safe remedies for colic.
I recommend this book to any woman who is thinking of having a child, is pregnant, or has a newborn. Not only does this book give the reader a clear idea of activities, foods, and herbs that she can use for common reproductive related ailments but the author also explains the safest ways to use these remedies. Moreover, the author also includes foods and herbs that can actually make the situation worse or that can even be hazardous to the baby's health so that the reader is forewarned about such potential dangers.