Herbal Birth Control: A Brief History with Ancient and Modern Herbal Recipes

by R.R. McGregor

Herbal Birth Control is a fascinating introduction to the ancient practice of using natural plant mixtures for contraception and abortion. It outlines the history of herbal contraception and abortion from the ancient Greeks, through the suppression of the Medieval Church, to the skeptical attitudes of modern doctors and bureaucrats. It identifies the particular plants that have been used for centuries, provides recipes gleaned from ancient and modern texts, and contains an amazing amount of information regarding the effectiveness and dangers of both ancient and modern forms of birth control. It is a short but important work that will shake up the medical and pharmaceutical establishment and give women more options in their quest to control their own fertility.

A gently feminist viewpoint, the book emphasizes the democratization of female medicine. It argues that women should have complete control of their own reproductive functions and for an end to medical and political prejudice against informed self-medication. It calls for further investigation of herbal contraception so that women might someday grow safe, effective herbs in their own gardens to control their own fertility with privacy and confidence.

54 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1993