Why is the ayurvedic compound, triphala and other laxatives contraindicated in early postpartum?  Mothers already have a strong downward energetic created from a vaginal birth and the natural body cleansing of the womb with bleeding after birth.  This downward flow we know in Ayurveda as apana vayu, which governs elimination, menstruation, birth, ejaculation, postpartum lochia, and urination.  Enhancing apana vayu increases the risk of excess blood loss, even hemmorage.  (So does doing too much).   What can we do for the all too common constipation at this time?  Bran, ground flax and other moisture sucking items will compound the problem in other ways.

Mothers need fiber, yes, but in very slippery, soft and gentle not rough or distinctively laxative forms.  Stewed iron rich dried fruits are a great start, and contrary to common iron pills, do the reverse of constipating.   Spice them with cinnamon, clove, ginger and simlar digestives, and serve freshly cooked, at warm temperature for the best effects.  Also add extra fats in the diet – there is a special postpartum oleation therapy which begins with panchakola ghee if possible, as soon as baby is delivered, and continues really for first 3 months.

We will explore more about the basic first 6 weeks herbal foods and their preparation in the Postnatal Herbal foods hands on class.  If you want to expand your studies, use this link to explore our A-Z listings .