EMOTIONS & MOOD SWINGS

You may experience more emotional ups and downs than usual during pregnancy. This is quite normal. This emotional roller coaster ride is due to hormonal influences. Urge those close to you to understand and to be supportive. Use exercise, relaxation, meditation, diet, and herbal therapies to improve your energy and moods, but do not neglect emotional and spiritual work.

THE PREGNANCY ROLLERCOASTER RIDE

Sometimes we feel exhilarated, and the next second we feel deeply depressed. We cry while watching bank commercials on TV and then we want to rip our partner's faces off if they say or do anything stupid. Other people are influenced as well since our mood can dampen their spirits as well and it can be nerve-wracking for them to deal with a pregnant woman on an emotional rollercoaster ride. To deal with the outbursts of anger, sadness, and almost hyperactive activity, it takes considerable effort by all the people involved.

Depression is one of the worst parts of these mood swings. Being at home alone makes this depression even more pronounced. For some reason women become very lonely and want to do something with people but just lack the energy required actually going out and doing something. Sometimes this can be caused partly because of the physical stress the pregnancy puts on the body. Watching your nutrition and possibly adding extra dietary supplements of certain vitamins and minerals can help alleviate these symptoms. Take more initiative in doing something you enjoy doing as soon as you feel depression is starting to overtake you. Having a good friend over to talk to will help you too. Some women give up hobbies while they are pregnant because they think they will hurt the baby. Before you give up any hobbies though, make sure you talk with your midwife or health care provider first - your fears might be totally without basis! Talk to your partner and let him know how you are feeling. Hopefully, he will help you carry part of the load too. Often a partner will spoil their expectant mom-to-be during the pregnancy and can help her when she needs it. However, there are those partners that do not support their pregnant wives. If you are the partner to a pregnant woman, PLEASE do not tell your partner that she looks fat. The weight gain is a necessary and natural process in the pregnancy. Your wife needs to hear that she is appreciated and still beautiful to you. Her changing body makes her feel very insecure and she needs to be assured by the person who loves her.

If your reaction is more anger and short temper then depression during your pregnancy, it could be because you feel the loss of energy and ability to do simple things such as running. Remember not to focus only on the losses you experience. You should be proud of the little baby growing inside your body. You are his/her home, his/her shelter, and his/her life. Make sure you remember that when you start to feel like you want to lash out at the world. Start a new hobby, treat yourself to manicures, and try new kinds of foods. Pamper yourself a little. Just because you cannot do some things does not mean your life has to stop! For instance, if you lack energy but you enjoy throwing parties and socializing, You could also host small potluck dinner or an afternoon tea party for a few special friends instead of a gala with a large feast for many people. Sometimes it can also be helpful to just take a nap, restore your energy and that will give you a whole new outlook on things. Being pregnant can be tiring and taking a needed nap will feel like a luxury. It really is not that bad!

Lastly, if you think in one of your mood swings you hurt some people around you, do not just blame it on the pregnancy and keep feeling bad about it. Just talk to the person and let them know your feelings. You would be surprised how often they have had the same experiences during their pregnancies. You will feel strengthened knowing that they forgive you and are happy for you and your growing family. Therefore, focus on the positive, try new things, and let your partner spoil you. After all, you deserve it! Do not worry about your changing body, it will get back to normal soon and you will have a beautiful, new baby who will look at you with love and complete trust as soon as it sees you for the first time, no matter what you look like.

SOME RECOMMENDED SUGGESTIONS

Some suggestions for feeling energetic and at peace:

Get plenty of sleep. Insomnia can be a problem with some pregnant women. Take a nap during the day if you are feeling tired. Take a break during the day to relax.

Spend time with your partner and friends. Go for a walk or to the movies for a night out. Go get a facial or a massage to help with de-stressing.

Do not be hard on yourself. Take each day a day at a time. Your pregnancy is relatively short-lived. Try to enjoy it. It will be over soon.

Regular moderate exercise combined with affirmations and creative visualizations will tone the body and the mind. Ten minutes of exercise done regularly does more to prevent fatigue and depression than an occasional intensive workout.

Deep relaxation is a powerful tool for easing emotional and physical stress. It can be done as a break in the day, just before going to sleep or just after waking up.

Meditation refreshes and centers the mind. Listen to classical music or nature-sounds on a CD or tape. Use a guided meditation tape or technique to center your mind and emotions. Hypnobirthing tapes and affirmations are wonderful to use. Consider taking Tai Chi or Yoga classes designed for pregnancy.

Affirmations and visualizations are important emotional and psychological tools. They are easy to do. There are many self help books and guides available to choose from.

Give yourself time to read a book, paint a picture, walk in the woods or any other creative and relaxing endeavor you may enjoy. Give yourself some quiet time. This helps to prevent fatigue and depression.

Do not feel guilty about not having the housework done or caught up. Believe me, it will always wait for you to do it. Enlist the help of other family members or friends to help you out. If you have the financial resources, occasionally hire someone to come in and do the work for you.

If mood changes are severe or interfering with your life, consider counseling. Make an effort to explore and understand underlying emotions can help you to cope with your feelings. Keep in mind, mood changes are usually temporary during pregnancy and are normal.

Eat well. Take care of your nutritional needs. Mood changes are thought to be caused by hormonal changes and deficiencies of the B vitamins as well as the stress of physical discomforts and psychological issues that arise as a result of bodily changes and the awareness of impending motherhood.

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index - Helpful information for pregnancy.

Increase your intake of foods rich in vitamin B's and iron, such as alfalfa, blackstrap molasses, brown rice, eggs, enriched whole-grain cereals, fish, green leafy vegetables, kidney beans, oats, poultry, soy products, and wheat germ. Inadequate iron makes you feel tired, irritable and unhappy. Focus on high protein snacks such as nuts, yogurt, popcorn with nutritional yeast, sardines and cheese.

Red Raspberry Leaf infusion calms. Add half as much Peppermint or Spearmint leaves for a lift of spirits and a renewed sense of energy. These herbs are good for pregnancy as well, adding needed nutrients to your diet.

MOONDRAGON'S PREGNANCY TEA 2 Parts Red Raspberry Leaves 1 Part Nettle Leaves 1 Part Alfalfa Leaves 1 Part Peppermint Leaves Mix all herbs thoroughly and brew into a strong tea. Drink a few cups to a quart of tea daily. The red raspberry leaves help to balance out hormonal fluctuations and is a good all-around woman's uterine toner. Great for mood swings. The nettle and alfalfa leaves are very high in vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy pregnancy. The peppermint leaves are great for the digestive system and can help digestive upsets that are common during pregnancy. The peppermint also adds a nice minty flavor to the otherwise "green' flavor of the other herbs. You can drink it unsweetened or with a little honey added to it. It can be made into a "sun tea" and refrigerated for a pleasant tasting ice tea as well as taken hot, as a regular brewed tea. Great for summer or winter. RED RASPBERRY LEAF SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS Mountain Rose Herbs: Red Raspberry Leaf, Bulk Organic Herbs Kalyx: Red Raspberry Leaf, Cut & Sifted, Certified Organic, Frontier Herbs, 1 lb. Kalyx: Red Raspberry Leaf Powder, Certified Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Red Raspberry Leaf Tea, Traditional Medicinals, 16 Tea Bags Kalyx: Pregnancy Tea, Traditional Medicinals, 16 Tea Bags HerbsPro: Red Raspberry Leaf, Natures Answer, 950 mg, 90 Caps HerbsPro: Red Raspberry Leaf Tea, Alvita Teas, 24 Bags HerbsPro: Organic Raspberry Leaf Tea, Traditional Medicinals, 16 Bags HerbsPro: Woman's Raspberry Leaf Tea, Yogi Teas, 16 Bags HerbsPro: Red Raspberry Leaf Extract, Organic, Alcohol Free, 1 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: Red Raspberry Leaf, Natures Way, 350 mg, 100 Caps House of Nutrition: Red Raspberry Leaf Extract, Nature's Answer, Alcohol Free, 1 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: Red Raspberry Leaf Extract, Gaia Herb, 2 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Red Raspberry Leaf Extract, Alcohol Free, Nature's Answer, 1 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Red Raspberry Leaf, Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 450 mg, 500 Caps ALFALFA SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS Mountain Rose Herbs: Alfalfa Leaf, Powder & Sprouting Seed, Certified Organic, 4 oz. to 1 lb. Bulk Herbs Kalyx: Alfalfa, Thompson Nutritional, 500 mg, 180 Tabs Kalyx: Alfalfa Sprouting Seed, Certified Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 4 oz. Kalyx: Alfalfa Mint Herbal Tea Blend, Certified Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Alfalfa Leaf, Cut & Sifted, Certified Organic, Frontier Herbs, 1 lb. Kalyx: Alfalfa Juice Extract Powder, 50% Protein, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. HerbsPro: Alfalfa Leaf, Organic, Cut & Sifted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. HerbsPro: Alfalfa Leaf Powder, Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. HerbsPro: Alfalfa Leaf Tea, Alvita Teas, 30 Bags HerbsPro: Alfalco Alfalfa Tonic, Boericke & Tafel, 8 fl oz. HerbsPro: Alfalfa, Organic, Natures Answer, Alcohol Free, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Alfalfa Extract, Eclectic Institute, 2 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Alfalfa Extract, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Alfafa, Single Herb, Dr. Christophers Original Formulas, 100 Caps TakeHerb: Alfalfa Herb, NOW Foods, 10 Grain, 250 Tabs TakeHerb: Alfalfa Powder, NOW Foods, 1 lb NETTLE SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS Mountain Rose Herbs: Nettle Leaf, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Mountain Rose Herbs: Nettle Leaf Powder, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Mountain Rose Herbs: Nettle Root, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Mountain Rose Herbs: Nettle Root Powder, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Kalyx: Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica), Cut & Sifted, Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica), Cut & Sifted, Organic, Frontier Bulk Herbs, 1 lb. Kalyx: Nettle Leaf Powder (Urtica dioica), Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Nettle Root (Urtica dioica), Cut & Sifted, Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Nettle Root (Urtica dioica), Cut & Sifted, Organic, Frontier Bulk Herbs, 1 lb. Kalyx: Nettle Root Powder (Urtica dioica), Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Nettle Root Power, Natures Herbs, 60 Caps HerbsPro: Nettle Leaf Tea, Alvita, 24 Tea Bags HerbsPro: Organic Nettle Leaf Tea, Traditional Medicinals Tea, 16 Bags HerbsPro: Nettle Blend Extract, Herb Pharm, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Nettle Glycerite Extract, Alcohol Free, Herb Pharm, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Nettle Blend Extract, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Nettle Glycerite Extract, Alcohol Free, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Stinging Nettle Leaf, Enzymatic Therapy, 600 mg, 90 Caps HerbsPro: Nettle Root Extract, Now Foods, 250 mg, 90 VCaps HerbsPro: Nettle Root Power, Natures Herbs, 60 Caps House of Nutrition: Nettle Blend Extract (Urtica dioica), Herb Pharm, 8 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: Nettle Leaves, Solaray, 450 mg, 180 Caps House of Nutrition: Nettle Herb, Natures Way, 870 mg, 100Caps TakeHerb: Nettles, Freeze Dried, Allergen Exposure Support, Oregon's Wild Harvest, 90 VCaps TakeHerb: Nettles Leaf, Cut & Sifted, Wildcrafted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. PEPPERMINT SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS Mountain Rose Herbs: Peppermint Leaf, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Kalyx: Peppermint Tea, Organic, Traditional Medicinals, 16 Tea Bags Kalyx: Peppermint Herbal Tea, Organic, Equal Exchange, 20 Tea Bags Kalyx: Peppermint Tea, Certified Organic, Yogi Tea, 16 Tea Bags Kalyx: Peppermint Herb Tea, Certified Organic, Choice Organic Teas, 16 Tea Bags Kalyx: Peppermint Herb Tea, Celestial Seasonings, 20 Tea Bags Kalyx: Peppermint Herb Tea, Celestial Seasonings, 40 Tea Bags Kalyx: Peppermint Herbal Tea, Stash Tea, Foil Wrapped, 20 Tea Bags Kalyx: Peppermint Leaf Herb Tea, Certified Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. (Approximately 260 Tea Bags) Kalyx: Peppermint & Spearmint Tea, Mint Brook Meadow Teas, 20 Tea Bags / 6 Boxes Kalyx: Peppermint Leaf Powder, Certified Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Peppermint Leaf, Cut & Sifted, Certified Organic, Fair Trade Certified, Frontier Bulk Herbs, 1 lb. Kalyx: Peppermint Leaf, Cut & Sifted, Certified Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Peppermint Extract, Health & Herbs, 2 fl. oz. Kalyx: Peppermint Extract, Health & Herbs, 8 fl. oz. Kalyx: Peppermint Essential Oil, Certified Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 4 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Pepogest (Peppermint Oil), Natures Way, 0.2 ml, 60 Softgels HerbsPro: Organic Classic Peppermint Tea, Traditional Medicinals Teas, 16 Bags HerbsPro: Purely Peppermint Tea, Yogi Teas, 16 Bags HerbsPro: Organic Peppermint Leaf, Cut & Sifted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 Lb HerbsPro: Peppermint Spirits, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Peppermint Herb Extract, Alcohol Free, Natures Answer, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Peppermint Leaves, Natures Way, 800 mg, 100 Caps HerbPro: Peppermint Oil, 100% Pure, Now Foods, 4 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: Thompson's Nutritional Peppermint Oil, 250 mg, 60 Softgels House of Nutrition: Peppermint Gels, Enteric Coated, Now Foods, 90 Softgels TakeHerb: Oil of Peppermint, Calmative Oil, Good'n Natural, 50 mg, 90 Softgels

Burdock, Blessed Thistle, and Sarsaparilla are considered bitter tonics. Occasional use helps keep your emotions on an even keel and makes a nice change from your daily Nettle and/or Raspberry leaf teas.

BURDOCK ROOT PRODUCTS Burdock root is used as an infusion, decoction, extract, tincture and ointment. For skin problems, the decoction is used both internally and externally. Burdock is also used as a skin ointment. The presence of high amounts of inulin and mucilage may explain Burdock's soothing effects on the skin and gastrointestinal tract. It has been particularly praised in treating psoriasis, its use being long-continued to produce good results. Bitter constituents in the root may also explain the traditional use of burdock to improve appetite and digestion. The herb seems to act by encouraging bile secretion, an hepatoprotective action that helps the body process water-insoluble fats. Burdock has been shown to reduce liver damage in animal studies. It also contains polyacetylenes that have been shown to have anti-microbial activity. Burdock root and fruit also have the ability to mildly lower blood sugar (hypoglycemic effect). The root is principally employed, but the leaves and seeds are equally valuable. An infusion of the leaves is useful to impart strength and tone to the stomach, for some forms of long-standing indigestion. Burdock is one of the best blood purifiers, it can reduce swelling around joints and helps rid calcification deposits. It cleans kidney function to help clear the blood of harmful acids. it contains inulin, a form of starch, which is the source of most of its curative powers, it is a substance that is important in the metabolism of carbohydrates. Burdock also aids the pituitary gland in releasing an ample supply of protein to help adjust hormone balance in the body. Sometimes it is said that poorly nourished pituitary gland is responsible for overweight. Burdock contains a lot of vitamin C and iron, protein. carbohydrate vitamin A, P, E, PABA, silicon, copper, iodine, zinc and B, complex. Mountain Rose Herbs: Burdock Root & Powder, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Kalyx: Burdock Root Powder (Arctium lappa), Certified Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. Kalyx: Burdock Root Powder (Arctium lappa), Certified Organic, Frontier Bulk Herbs, 1 lb. Kalyx: Burdock Root Extract (Arctium lappa), Health & Herbs, 2 fl. oz. Kalyx: Burdock Blend Extract (Root & Seed), Herb Pharm, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Burdock Root Tea, Alvita Teas, 24 Bags HerbsPro: Burdock Blend Extract (Root & Seed), Herb Pharm, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Burdock Blend Extract (Root & Seed), Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Burdock Root, Now Foods, 430 mg, 100 Caps House of Nutrition: Burdock Root, Natures Way, 425 mg, 100 Caps House of Nutrition: Burdock Root, Solaray, Organic, 540 mg, 100 Caps House of Nutrition: Burdock Blend Extract (Arctium lappa Root & Seed), Herb Pharm, 8 fl. oz.

BLESSED THISTLE PRODUCTS Modern uses of Blessed Thistle (Cnicus benedictus) include increasing milk supply for nursing mothers, memory improvement, increasing appetite and generally preventing sickness. Four different ways of using Blessed Thistle have been recommended. Helps nursing mothers by stimulating the mammary glands and helps to increase breast milk supply. Mountain Rose Herbs: Blessed Thistle, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Kalyx: Blessed Thistle Herb, Cut & Sifted, Certified Organic, Frontier Bulk Herbs, 1 lb TakeHerb: Blessed Thistle Herb, Organic, Cut & Sifted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb TakeHerb: Blessed Thistle Extract, Health Herbs, 2 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Blessed Thistle Extract, Eclectic Herb, 2 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Blessed Thistle Extract, Eclectic Herb, 1 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Blessed Thistle Extract, Nature's Answer, 1 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Blessed Thistle Herb, Nature's Way, 780 mg, 100 Caps TakeHerb: Mothers Milk Herb Tea For Women, Traditional Medicinals, 16 Bags HerbsPro: Blessed Thistle Extract, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: Blessed Thistle Extract (Cnicus benedictus), Herb Pharm, 8 fl. oz.

SARSAPARILLA ROOT PRODUCTS Sarsaparilla root is a tropical herb from Central America brought to Europe by Spanish Conquistadors for use in herbal medicines. The tropical root is harvested from its natural environment in Mexico. Sarsaparilla, long valued for its large roots, was once widely used in root beer, and is still used today to flavor beverages, candies and baked goods. It has been used by athletes as a nutritional supplement, for sexual impotence, rheumatism, skin ailment, and a tonic for physical weakness. Mountain Rose Herbs: Sarsaparilla (Indian) Root & Powder, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Mountain Rose Herbs: Sarsaparilla (Jamaican) Root, Wildharvested, Bulk Herbs Kalyx: Sarsaparilla Root, Natures Way, 100 Caps Kalyx: Sarsaparilla Root, Natures Herbs, 100 Caps HerbsPro: Sarsaparilla Extract, Herb Pharm, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Sarsaparilla Extract, Alcohol Free, Natures Answer, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Sarsaparilla Extract, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: Sarsaparilla, Natures Way, 425 mg, 100 Caps House of Nutrition: Sarsaparilla Root, Solaray, 450 mg, 100 Caps TakeHerb: Sarsaparilla Root, Mexican Wildcrafted, Cut & Sifted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. TakeHerb: Sarsaparilla Root Powder, Mexican Wildcrafted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. TakeHerb: Sarsaparilla Root Extract, Sustains Healthy Phytoestrogen Levels, Natures Answer, 2 fl. oz.

Motherwort tincture calms without causing drowsiness. It helps to relieve stress when you are feeling overwhelmed. Try 5 drops in a small glass of water to restore emotional balance. Allow 15 minutes for the full effect to occur. Repeat, if necessary, as frequently as every two hours during times of particular upset or stress. Motherwort tincture works best when combined with a short break in the day's activities to be able to stretch, breathe, and relax, centering one's body and mind. Caution should be taken with Motherwort as it can be psychologically habit forming. Limit it's use to only those times when you absolutely need to calm down.

MOTHERWORT SUPPLEMENT Motherwort has been known to reduce palpitations of the heart, especially when associated with anxiety. It is especially beneficial for the anxiety after childbirth and for menopausal anxiety. It is thought that it has a short-term ability to lower blood pressure due to its glycosides. It is an excellent herb to use for amenorrhea or dysmenorrhea, especially when there is scanty menstrual flow. It is a menstrual regulator and may be used to treat functional infertility. The Chinese use this herb also for its diuretic properties. CAUTION: Do not use during pregnancy. For anxiety, amenorrhea, dysmennorhea, and regulating the menstrual cycle. Use 6-12 drops in juice, water, under the tongue or as desired. May be taken 3 times daily. Mountain Rose Herbs: Motherwort, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs TakeHerb: Motherwort Extract, For Anxiety & Menses, Health Herbs, 2 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Motherwort Extract, Eclectic Herb, 2 fl. oz.

Skullcap tincture provides deep, refreshing sleep. Take up to 30 drops of commercial tincture (from dried plants) or 5-15 drops of fresh plant tincture half an hour before going to bed. An infusion of the dried plant nourishes and strengthens the nerves. Drink two cups daily for several months if your nerves feel frayed and you are easily upset.

SKULLCAP SUPPLEMENT Mountain Rose Herbs: Skullcap, Certified Organic, Bulk Herbs Kalyx: Skullcap Extract, Glycerite, Alcohol Free, Herb Pharm, Fresh Flowering Plant, 1 fl. oz. Kalyx: Skullcap Extract, Herb Pharm, Fresh Flowering Plant, 1 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Skullcap Extract, Glycerite, Alcohol Free, Herb Pharm, Fresh Flowering Plant, 4 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Skullcap Extract, Herb Pharm, Fresh Flowering Plant, 4 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Scullcap (Skullcap) Herb, Organic, Cut & Sifted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. TakeHerb: Scullcap (Skullcap) Herb Powder, Organic, Starwest Botanicals, 4 oz. TakeHerb: Scullcap (Skullcap), Certified Organic, Bazaar of India, 100 VCaps

PREGNANCY MOOD SUPPLEMENTS

RELAXING BABY & MOMMY MASSAGE OIL The benefits of massage are numerous including relaxation, release of tension and the relief of discomfort during labor and delivery as it releases both oxytocin and endorphins and therefore can assist in relieving discomfort. Baby massage provides relief from teething, congestion, colic and emotional stress for both the baby and mom. House of Nutrition: Organic Calming Baby Oil, Aura Cacia, 4 fl. oz. HerbsPro: Calming Baby Oil, Certified Organic, 4 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Massage Oil, Relaxing Lemongrass & Coconut Aromatherapy, Intimate Organics, 4 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Massage Oil, Relaxing Citrus, Aura Cacia, 4 fl. oz. TakeHerb: Calm Wellness Oil, Organic, Natures Inventory, Rid Anxiety & Nerves, 2 fl. oz.

KAVA ROOT Kava root is used as an effective natural herbal remedy that may help reduce anxiety, stress, and muscle tensions, promote friendliness and sociability, and produce relaxing physical as well as mental sensations. HerbsPro: Kava Kava Extract, Herb Pharm, 4 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: Kava Kava Root Extract, Gaia Herbs, 2 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: Kava Kava Root Extract, Extra Strength, Gaia Herbs, 4 fl. oz.

MOON CYCLE TEA When PMS, mild mood changes, cramps and edema associated with the menstrual cycle arise, it's time for Woman's Moon Cycle Tea. This helpful blend is formulated with two main herbs, Dong Quai and Black Cohosh Root, which alleviate menstrual discomfort and regulate menstruation. Yogis recommend light, easily digestible foods when a woman feels out of her center. Long deep breathing and regular exercise can also provide additional support and comfort. Pour one cup of boiling water over tea bag, steep 4 to 6 minutes. For stronger flavor, steep longer. For best results drink Woman's Moon Cycle Tea daily. TakeHerb: Woman's Moon Cycle Tea, Yogi Teas, 16 Tea Bags

WOMANS NURSING MOM TEA Breastfeeding can create such a wonderful and essential connection with your baby. Thats why we created Womans Nursing Support. Our all organic blend includes refreshing fennel, fenugreek and anise, three herbs that have a long history of use by herbalists to help promote lactation. Fragrant and calming lavender aids relaxation, while chamomile, with its sweet, apple-like fragrance, helps ease the minor stomach upset that sometimes accompanies nursing. Take care of yourself and your baby one delicious sip at a time. HerbsPro: Woman's Nursing Mom Support Tea, Yogi Teas, 16 Bags House of Nutrition: Woman's Nursing Mom Support Tea, Yogi Teas, 16 Tea Bags TakeHerb: Woman's Nursing Mom Support Tea, Yogi Teas, 16 Tea Bags

ST. JOHNS WORT SUPPLEMENT St. John's Wort is mainly used for the treatment of mild to moderate depression. It has been proven in many European clinical studies to be a natural antidepressant and is widely used for this reason. St. John's Wort is the most popular anti-depressant in Germany, where one brand alone outsells Prozac seven to one. In 1996, the British Medical Journal summarized the results of over 20 studies on the herb which compared it to placebos and anti-depressant drugs. St. John's Wort not only outdid the placebos, it showed similar results to the drugs, but with fewer side effects. St. John's Wort contains the compound Hypericin which has been used as an anti-depressant since 1942. The tranquilizing quality of this compound increases blood flow to stressed tissue. This sedative effect relieves pain, anxiety and nervous tension. Among the uses for St. John's Wort are a variety of conditions such as chronic fatigue and mental burnout. Some research also suggests that St. John's Wort may reduce the growth of tumors. Consult with your health care provider if you are using anti-depressant medication before using this herb. Mountain Rose Herbs: St. Johns Wort, Organic Bulk Herbs Kalyx: St. John's Wort Herb Super Extract, Standardized, Natures Answer, Wildcrafted, 60 VCaps Kalyx: St. John's Wort Herb Extract, Standardized, Natures Answer, 50 VCaps HerbsPro: St. Johns Wort Tea, Alvita Teas, 24 Bags HerbsPro: St. Johns Wort Tea, Health King, 20 Tea Bags HerbsPro: Mood Support With St Johns Wort, Now Foods, 90 VCaps HerbsPro: St. Johns Wort Extract, Standardized 3% Hypericin, Planetary Herbals, 300 mg, 180 Tabs HerbsPro: Full Spectrum St. Johns Wort Liquid Extract, Support Emotional Well-Being, Planetary Herbals, 2 fl. oz. HerbsPro: St. Johns Wort Young Flowering Tops Extract, Natures Answer, 2 fl. oz. HerbsPro: St. Johns Wort Extract, Alcohol Free, Nature's Answer, 1 fl. oz. House of Nutrition: One Daily St. Johns Wort, Solarays, 900 mg, 60 Caps TakeHerb: St. Johns Wort Tea, Yogi Teas, 16 Tea Bags TakeHerb: St. Johns Wort Herb Powder, Wildcrafted, Starwest Botanicals, 1 lb. TakeHerb: PZ 100 Mood Enhancement, 60 Caps Stress can be combated with several ingredients such as DHEA and St. John’s Wort. Clinical research has shown that DHEA can significantly improve the well being of an individual, giving them greater confidence and the ability to deal with whatever life has to offer. St. John’s Wort has been used since ancient times to relieve anxiety and depression. PZ 100 combines these two powerful stress relievers with a variety of other ingredients to promote well being, such as 5-HTP, making PZ 100 one of the strongest over the counter pills for stress relief. PZ 100 mood enhancement pills use St. John’s Wort to lessen anxiety and reduce aggressive behavior. The benefits of stress relief found in St. John’s Worts have been known for centuries but it is by combining St. John’s Wort with other strong stress relievers that makes PZ 100 much more effective than other stress relievers. This powerful formula makes it easier to concentrate without distractions, instills self-confidence, and moderates mood swings to give a better frame of mind with which to deal with life’s other concerns. It is time to feel good about yourself and put your life back in order and with PZ 100 you will have the control you need to do it.

WOMANS - DONG QUAI TEA Organic Woman's Dong Quai Herbal Tea is an effective and organic way to lessen fatigue, restore your energy and balance a woman's hormones. House of Nutrition: Womans Dong Quai Tonic Tea, Hormone Balance, Certified Organic, Yogi Teas, 16 Tea Bags Organic Woman’s Dong Quai Tonic is an effective and organic way to lessen fatigue, restore your energy and balance a woman’s hormones. This healing tonic is formulated to ease what traditional Chinese medicine practitioners refer to as "blood deficiency," resulting from stress, poor digestion, or improper eating and health habits. We’ve included in our tonic the potent "Queen of Herbs" Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis), shown to be effective in supporting the reproductive organs, addressing common female hormone imbalances, helping to regulate the menstrual cycle and building all-around health. HerbsPro: Dong Quai Lady's Tea, Health King, 20 Tea Bags Dong Quai Lady's Herb Tea is an excellent drink flavored with jasmine flower, is made of the famous Chinese Dong Quai (Angelica chinensis) grown on the pollution-free high plateau of northwest China. Dong Quai contains fatty acids, succinic acid, various amino acids, volatile oil, B12, etc., and as a blood builder and circulator, helps in Chinese medicine for maintaining normal gynecological functions, to regulate female hormone, cycles, alleviate cramps and mid-life hot flashes, to avoid hair loss, and to maintain youthfulness.

POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION SUPPLEMENTS Supplement blends to help with recuperating postpartum moms, to relieve anxiety, and depression. TakeHerb: Monthly Comfort Tea, Helps Relax & Ease Cramping, Earth Mama Angel Baby, 16 Tea Bags Formerly known as Postpartum Tea, Organic Monthly Comfort Tea is a calming, soothing, USDA Certified 100% Organic and Certified Kosher blend created to jumpstart recovery immediately after childbirth, and for "that time of the month" when hormones are raging and your uterus and you could use some extra care! Formulated especially for women, with a Cinnamon delicious combination of nutrient rich, 100% organic herbs, Organic Monthly Comfort Tea blends astringent Lady's Mantle with balancing Lemon Balm, mineral rich Nettles and Alfalfa, and rejuvenating Ginger to help ease cramping. Organic Monthly Comfort Tea is a natural for our menstruating mates and perimenopausal pals, and perfect for recuperating postpartum mamas. Sip a cup within an hour after childbirth and then 3-4 times a day for a week. For monthly discomfort, sip as often as needed! TakeHerb: Childbirth Extract, Pain After, Sedative, Soothing, Depression Relief, Health Herbs, 2 fl. oz. Acts as a sedative for pain, helps to soothe the nervous system, and relieve depression. Use 6-12 drops in juice, water, under the tongue, or as desired. May be taken 3 times daily. TakeHerb: Depression Extract, Alleviate Depression & Strengthen Nerves, Health Herbs, 2 fl. oz. Helps to alleviate depression and strengthen the nervous system. TakeHerb: MindSoothe, Depression & Anxiety Treatment, Native Remedies, 60 Caps Immediate and long term relief from depression, insomnia, OCD, panic disorder, and anxiety without side effects of psychiatric drugs. Relieves symptoms of low self-esteem, fearfulness, fatigue, irritability, anger, disturbed appetite. TakeHerb: Lithium Orotate, Dr. Hans Nieper, 200 Tabs Lithium is the most common element used for stabilizing mood swings, mania and depression. Lithium orotate (the lithium salt of orotic acid) is 20 times more bio-active than other lithium salts, allowing a reduction in dosage greatly reducing the likelihood and severity of potential side effects. Each 120 mg capsule provides 4.8 elemental lithium. Lithium Orotate may be effective in treating manic-depressive and bi-polar illness but best avoided by those on a sodium free diet or who are diabetic.

NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...

You or a family member has questions about pregnancy, emotional issues and mood swings.

If your mood swings last more than two weeks and do not seem to get better, you may want to ask your health care provider or midwife for a referral to a counselor. More than 11 million American women are affected by depression each year. Depression is most prevalent in women during childbearing years but can occur at any age.

Some symptoms of depression include:

• Recurrent anxiety and increased irritability.


• Sleep disturbances.


• Change in eating habits.


• Inability to concentrate on anything for very long.


• Short-term memory loss.

If your mood swings become more frequent and intense, it is crucial that you speak with your health care provider or midwife about options in dealing with severe mood swings, anxiety or depression.

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MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Pregnancy Concerns

MoonDragon's ObGyn Womens Health Information: Depression

MoonDragon's ObGyn Womens Health Information: Insomnia

MoonDragon's ObGyn Womens Health Information: Stress

MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Postpartum Depression

MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Prenatal Exercise

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