False Unicorn (Chamaelirium luteum) - Historically used for its adaptogenic effect on the ovaries, which produce reproductive hormones necessary for optimum fertility. False unicorn is often used in miscarriage prevention formulas as well for this same reason. A recent 1996 study indicated the herb may stimulate production of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin).

Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus) - Research has validated the use of this herb to normalize hormonal function in women, particularly those suffering from symptoms of PMS or menstrual irregularities. One of the "side effects" noted in the PMS studies was an increase in the number of pregnancies during the study period. Vitex is one of the best "women's herbs" safe for daily use throughout the whole month of the menstrual cycle, not just during bleeding, pre- or post-ovulation. Some women may choose to supplement their B-Fruitful formula with 1-2 capsules of standardized vitex agnus-castus each morning. Research has noted this herb sometimes takes 2-6 months to help the body achieve hormonal regulation.

Squaw vine (Mitchella repens) - High concentrations of steroidal saponins in this herb are thought to provide the basis for squaw vine's reputation for the treatment of infertility and for toning and nourishing the uterus during pregnancy. This herb is also used to treat painful, irregular menstruation.

True Unicorn root (Aletris farinosa) - This herb is primarily used in herbal therapy as a digestive stimulant and tonic. Digestive stimulants are necessary and beneficial for fertility due to the need to support digestion of other herbs taken and food for maximum nutrient absorption.

Black haw (Viburnum prunifolium) - Black haw's history for prevention of miscarriage, treatment of uterine cramps and painful menstrual cramps goes unquestioned in herb circles. King's American Dispensatory even states that "It was customary for planters to compel female slaves to drink an infusion of black haw daily whilst pregnant to prevent abortion from taking the cotton root." Slave women took cotton root for its abortifacient action, and black haw's powerful uterine relaxant effects were known to counteract the abortifacient effect of the cotton root bark. Black haw is included in this infertility formula due to a need to provide support for the tension and stress that oftentimes accompanies infertility. Tension and stress can affect all parts of the body, including the uterus. Even though the uterine relaxant effect is quite pronounced, the relaxation does not encourage increased uterine bleeding in the least.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - Ginger's warming and circulatory supportive actions are part of the reason this herb is included in this formula. Some women experience a decreased blood flow to their reproductive organs for a variety of reasons, which can affect fertility. Ginger is added to the B-Fruitful formula for aiding digestion, decreasing inflammation, antiplatelet action and serving as another antispasmodic for the uterus.

Black haw (Viburnum prunifolium) - Black haw's history for prevention of miscarriage, treatment of uterine cramps and painful menstrual cramps goes unquestioned in herb circles. King's American Dispensatory even states that "It was customary for planters to compel female slaves to drink an infusion of black haw daily whilst pregnant to prevent abortion from taking the cotton root." Slave women took cotton root for its abortifacient action, and black haw's powerful uterine relaxant effects were known to counteract the abortifacient effect of the cotton root bark. This is our primary herb in our miscarriage prevention formula to treat threatened miscarriage with uterine bleeding during pregnancy or an excitable, irritable uterus producing cramps or premature labor. 

Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) - Wild yam is an excellent uterine antispasmodic and nourishing herb to the adrenal glands, which help support healthy hormone production, particularly when the ovaries are not working "up to par." Wild yam is also known for aiding digestion and in treatment of morning sickness, making it an all around good herb for a miscarriage prevention formula. 

False unicorn (Chamaelirium luteum) - Historically used for its adaptogenic effect on the ovaries, which produce reproductive hormones necessary for sustaining pregnancy. A recent 1996 study indicated the herb may stimulate production of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), making it an appropriate addition to our miscarriage prevention formula.

Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) - This herb has recently been given a bad reputation as being embryotoxic due to one case of an infant born with acute myocardial infarction associated with congestive heart failure and shock to a mother who had taken blue cohosh during labor. This was an isolated case and flies in the face of more than a hundred years' use as a labor prep herb with no ill effects noted. I would encourage concerned mothers to read the account of this infant's birth written by the attending midwife at www.naturalchildbirth.org/natural/resources/labor/labor38.htm   One of the chemical constituents found in blue cohosh, caulosaponin, is reported to be the causative factor in this situation due to one study in 1998 that isolated caulosaponin from the whole herb, blue cohosh, and injected it into lab animals. This drug (that's what a constituent of an herb becomes when isolated from the other plant chemicals that make up the whole herb) then caused a narrowing of the arteries. As with other studies that isolate only one portion of an herb to demonstrate benefit or risk, this judgment upon the whole herb is ludicrous. What should be noted is that blue cohosh does promote uterine contractions and stimulate blood flow to the pelvic region; therefore, it should never be used prior to the last five weeks of pregnancy (use for painful menstruation or other uterine cramping apart from pregnancy would be acceptable). Certainly, each mother will have to weigh her own concerns about any possible risks to her baby in using any herb during pregnancy. For myself, I am comfortable using blue cohosh as intended for labor preparation due to its long history of safe use for this specific purpose.

Squaw vine (Mitchella repens) - High concentrations of steroidal saponins in this herb are thought to provide the basis for squaw vine's reputation for the treatment of infertility and for toning and nourishing the uterus during pregnancy. This herb is also used to treat painful, irregular menstruation.

False unicorn (Chamamaelirium luteum) - The rich content of steroidal saponins in false unicorn are the reason this herb is included in our labor prep formula to support the body in adapting to the hormonal needs of the last weeks of pregnancy and increased hormonal production needs of labor and birth.

Black haw (Viburnum prunifolium) - Another herb rich in steroidal saponins that nutritionally supports the body's production of hormones necessary for the preparation for labor and delivery. Black haw also acts to gentle the powerful uterine contraction effect of blue cohosh to quiet an irritable uterus. 

Pennyroyal (Hedeoma pulegioides, Mentha pulegium) - Pennyroyal has been accused of many ills due to the dangerous use by some women of its essential oil to induce abortion. Use of ANY herbal essential oil internally is dangerous, as only a small amount of oil is necessary to produce very toxic, even fatal, effects. In contrast, pennyroyal tea in the amount of 75 gallons would be necessary to achieve the toxic effects that even a small amount of the oil would cause, thus, the amount taken in this labor induction formula for its uterine stimulant effect is considered safe and non-toxic.

Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium) - Feverfew is considered a class 2b herb, not to be used during pregnancy, due to its uterine stimulant effects. That effect makes it appropriate for use in a labor induction formula. 

Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalactroides) - Blue cohosh is used in this formula for its ability to stimulate uterine contractions. Please read the information regarding concerns in the scientific community (listed under Labor Prep ingredient list) over the use of blue cohosh during any part of pregnancy or labor in order to make an informed decision as to whether to use this formula during your labor. 

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) - When used to stimulate uterine contractions to initiate labor, black and blue cohosh are often combined together: Blue cohosh for inducing contractions, and black cohosh for its estrogenic and uterine tonic effects. 

Beth root (Trillium erectum, grandiflorum) - Beth root is a uterine stimulant that is used to induce labor and is also used to control bleeding.

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) - A female tonic herb, dong quai is used in this formula to strengthen the uterus to expel the placenta when combined with the other herbs for their own unique properties.

Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalactroides) - Used to stimulate the uterine contractions necessary to expel the placenta.

Shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa pastoris) - One of the best herb's in a midwife's repetoire to halt hemorrhage. Due to the high oxytocin content in the herb, which stimulates uterine contractions, this herb is used in this formula to arrest excessive bleeding and stimulate the uterus to expel the placenta following childbirth.

Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalactroides) - Used to stimulate the uterus to contract, thus aid in controlling bleeding due to inadequate uterine contractability.

Bayberry (Myrica cerifera) - Used in this formula for its astringent action due to tannin content of the herb.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) - The herb's tannins cause an astringent action that prevents and treats excessive bleeding.

Capsicum (Capsicum frutescens, C. annum) - The stimulating effects of capsicum are well-known to anyone who has ever placed a bit of the pepper, but capsicum is also known herbally as a styptic to halt bleeding. While too much capsicum alone, given repeatedly, could stimulate enough to possibly increase bleeding, in combination with these other excellent anti-hemorrhagic herbs, it serves as a stimulant to get the other herbs into the system quickly for efficient bleeding control.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea, E. angustifolia) - Used in this formula for immune stimulating and tissue-healing properties. Contraindicated for persons with chronic, auto-immune disease.

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, M. recutita) - We included this great herb for antiinflammatory purposes. Chamomile also has antidiabetic action, some phytoestrogenic effects that may be a cancer preventive for estrogen-dependent and estrogen-independent cancers. Exerts an antispasmodic action on the gastrointestinal tract. No known contraindications.

Red root - Red root is an excellent stimulant to get a sluggish lymphatic system moving. This is why we include it in our mastitis formula. Safe for use as intended.

Baptisia root (Baptisia tinctoria) - This herb is also called Wild indigo and is used for its potent antimicrobial and lymphatic cleansing properties. Baptisia also reduced phlegm and is good for persistent infections not responding to other milder herbs. Do not exceed 3 teaspoons of a single of baptisia daily, as high doses can cause vomiting. In the amount in this formula at the recommended dosage, this should not pose a problem.

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) - Boneset has been studied for its ability to increase both granulocytes and macrophages (white cells) in our immune system. When combined with echinacea and baptisia, boneset also can increase phagocytosis (the process by which our white cells literally "eat up" the invading pathogen). This herb should only be used for short periods of times of acute infections, definitely not on a daily basis for long-term use. Persons with liver problems should not consume this herb.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) - Useful for loss of appetite, dyspeptic ailments such as mild, spastic discomforts of the GI tract. We use it in this formula for its astringent properties and usefulness in fighting infections when combined with echinacea and elderflowers. Contraindicated in persons with allergies to members of Compositae family.

Elderflower (Sambucus nigra) - Although elder is best known for use in treating cold and flu, we use it here for the general achiness associated with breast infections. No known contraindications.

Usnea (Usnea spp.) - Antimicrobial and antiinflammatory, although primarily used in mouth and throat infections. No known contrindications.

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) - While most of the research and medicinal use of milk thistle centers on it potent liver protective and liver supportive properties, milk thistle is also showing promise as a kidney protective herb and certainly is traditionally use to increase mother's milk. No known contraindications.

Chastetree berries (Vitex agnus-castus) - While primarily used for irregularities of the menstrual cycle and PMS symptoms, chastetree berries are also used for tension and swelling in the breasts and to increase breastmilk. While chastetree is used to lower prolactin levels in women experiencing amenorrhea due to excessive levels, this does not seem to be the case for breastfeeding moms. Chastetree's action is more of one adapting to the current needs of the body, as clear evidence of increased lactation was observed in research. No known contraindications. 

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) - Used primarily for mild, spastic gastrointestinal ailments, sense of fullness and flatulence as well as excess mucus conditions of the respiratory tract. Fennel has reported uses to increase breast milk and increase libido. Contraindicated for pregnancy.

Borage (Borage officinalis) - Borage is reported as an herb to use primarily to increase breastmilk. The oils in borage have anti-inflammatory and antihypertensive actions. Research continues to try to ascertain whether borage contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which would make it unsuitable for pregnancy, lactation, the very young and anyone with liver compromise on a long-term, daily basis.

Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) - Traditionally used to support a healthy pregnancy. Used in this formula to continue to help mom's uterus recover from childbirth. No known contraindications.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) - Lemon balm's actions as an antimicrobial, antiviral and sedative are utilized in this formula to calm mother and avoid breast infections. No known contraindications.

Bilberry (Myrtilli fructus) - Bilberry has been specifically studied for its beneficial effect on varicose veins during pregnancy. It has also been studied for treating general circulatory disorders, glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, poor night vision and diabetic/hypertensive retinopathy. Some studies have even indicated an effect similar to that of insulin due to the anthocyanoside components of the herb. No known contraindications for this herb for pregnancy, nursing, children under 2 or persons over 65.

Rosehips (Rosa canina, R. psudofructus) - The high vitamin C content of this herb makes it ideal for aiding circulatory health since vitamin C increases capillary strength. No known contraindications.

Cleavers (Galium aparine) - Used in this formula primarily for its astringent effect to tone the circulatory system. Cleavers are also used as a mild diuretic and lymphatic cleanser. Since this herb is commonly used for children's herbal medicine, there are no known contraindications.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) - This highly valued herb is included in this formula due to its documented protective effects on the vascular system. Research has shown an ability to relax blood vessels, to protect against capillary permeability, to inhibit platelet aggregation, and to decrease ischemia and edema. Other effects of ginkgo include: cognitive enhancement, relief of altitude sickness, antiarthritic and analgesic effects and relief of pain in intermittent claudication.

Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus) - The relaxing effect on the uterus combined with a high tannin content make this herb very useful for cramping and bleeding during menstrual periods or following childbirth. While promoting pain relief by relieving excessive cramps, the tannins prevent excessive bleeding. No known contraindications.

Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) - Used in this formula for its antispasmodic effect, with particular affinity for the pelvic region. Considered safe for use for use as directed.

Black haw (Viburnum prunifolium) - Relaxant and pain-reliever due to salicin content.

Scullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia, S. Baicalensis) - Used for its sedative and calming effects. Considered safe for use as directed.

Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) - A fine antispasmodic herb, also known for treating insomnia. Interestingly, valerian has also been studied in the treatment of angina, where it decreases the frequency and shortens the duration of anginal attacks. Contrary to some popular herbals, valerian is non-habit-forming and does not cause unpleasant grogginess. No known contraindications.

Hops (Humulus lupulus) - The oils in this herb have been shown to have sedative/hypnotic effects as well as antispasticity effects. Hops are also believed to be phytoestrogenic in activity as well as a mild antimicrobial.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, M. recutita) - Used in this combination for its antispasmodic as well as antianxiety effects. Chamomile also has antidiabetic action, some phytoestrogenic effects that may be a cancer preventive for estrogen-dependent and estrogen-independent cancers. Exerts an antispasmodic action on the gastrointestinal tract. Safe for use in pregnant and nursing mothers, children under 2 and persons over 65.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) - Used to increase breastmilk, has antimicrobial action against Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enteritidis, and a stimulant to the gastrointestinal tract in cases of dyspepsia, such as mild GI afflictions, fullness and flatulence. Considered safe for use as directed.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) - Has a sedative, calming effect similar to valerian and is also useful for treating anxiety, digestive disorders, colic and for its anti-inflammatory effect in arthritis and joint conditions.

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) - Excellent antimicrobial herb with antiulcer action on gastrointestinal mucus membrane. Other known uses for meadowsweet include supportive therapy for colds, antioxidant activity, and some anticancer action on cervical dysplasia or carcinoma of the vagina. Three studies have found an anticoagulant effect similar to heparin exhibited by oral administration of the herb. No known contraindications.

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, M. recutita) - Used in this combination for its antispasmodic effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Chamomile also has antidiabetic action, some phytoestrogenic effects that may be a cancer preventive for estrogen-dependent and estrogen-independent cancers. Exerts a general antispasmodic action and antianxiety effect. Safe for use in pregnant and nursing mothers, children under 2 and persons over 65.

Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra, U. fulva) - Used traditionally to treat gastritis and gastric and duodenal ulcers, as well as useful for coughs and skin wounds or inflammation. Use in our formula for soothing effect on GI mucus membrane as well as bulking agent for loose, watery stools. Safe for use as directed.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - Excellent antispasmodic for the gastrointestinal tract. I've found nothing better to promptly quiet intestinal cramps and relieve nausea and vomiting. Ginger is also anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, antiulcer, antiplatelet, fever-reducer, antimicrobial and an all-around wonderful antioxidant. Contraindicated in persons with gallstones.

Blackberry (Rubi fruticosi folium) and Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) - Both of these herbs are used for their astringent action that has a spec ific medicinal effect on nonspecific, acute diarrhea and mild inflammation of the mucosa of the mouth and throat. No known contraindications.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.) - Used for loss of appetite, dyspeptic complaints such as mild, spastic condition of the gastrointestinal tract, bloating and flatulence. While there is a contraindication during pregnancy, the very minute amount in this formula would be less than one would get on a piece of cinnamon toast, which is not contraindicated for pregnancy. Persons with allergy to cinnamon or Peruvian balsam should not use this formula.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - Excellent antispasmodic for the gastrointestinal tract. I've found nothing better to promptly quiet intestinal cramps and relieve nausea and vomiting. Ginger is also anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, antiulcer, antiplatelet, fever-reducer, antimicrobial and an all-around wonderful antioxidant. Contraindicated in persons with gallstones. Ginger has actually been studied to provide improvement or relief from hyperemesis gravidum, a condition in pregnancy in which mom can keep nothing down.

Lemon balm (Melissa folium) - Soothes the gastrointestinal tract, relieving functional complaints as well as improves nervous sleeping disorders. No known contraindications.

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, M. recutita) - - Used in this combination for its antispasmodic effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Chamomile also has antidiabetic action, some phytoestrogenic effects that may be a cancer preventive for estrogen-dependent and estrogen-independent cancers. Exerts a general antispasmodic action and antianxiety effect. Safe for use in pregnant and nursing mothers, children under 2 and persons over 65.

Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) - Used traditionally to relieve morning sickness, and that's our use here.

Peach leaf (Prunus persica) - Traditionally used for relieving morning sickness in pregnancy. 

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale, T. Laevigatum) - Dandelion provides liver support by stimulating bile flow, stimulating appetite, relieving dyspepsia and providing a mild diuretic effect. Contraindicated in cases of bile duct obstruction gallbladder empyema, ileus. Should only be used in the presence of gallstones in consultation with a physician.

Yellow dock (Rumex crispus) - Mild laxative action, but the tannin's astringent effect prevents it from causing an "explosive" laxative action. Considered safe when used as directed.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - Excellent antispasmodic for the gastrointestinal tract, which is why we've included it to offset any cramping that might possibly occur when using yellow dock, an anthraquinone-containg herb (stimulates peristaltic activity of the intestinal tract). I've found nothing better to promptly quiet intestinal cramps and relieve nausea and vomiting. Ginger is also anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, antiulcer, antiplatelet, fever-reducer, antimicrobial and an all-around wonderful antioxidant. Contraindicated in persons with gallstones.

Dark plum - Fiber encourages regular bowel movements, and plums are known for their bowel-stimulating effects.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea, E. angustifolia) - Used as immuno-supportive therapy for colds, chronic infections of the respiratory tract and lower urinary tract as well as external use for poorly healing wounds and chronic ulcerations. Contraindicated in persons with systemic auto-immune disease.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - Ginger is anti-inflammatory, digestive aid, antiulcer, antiplatelet, fever-reducer, antimicrobial and an all-around wonderful antioxidant. Serves as an excellent antispasmodic for the GI tract and anti-nausea herbal medicine. Contraindicated in persons with gallstones.

Elderberries (Sambucus nigra) - Elderberry syrup (or TincTracts) can provide excellent prevention for colds and flu. No known contraindications.

Mullein (Verbascum flos) - Used for mucous conditions (catarrhs) of the respiratory tract. No known contraindications. 

Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia, S. baicalensis) - Traditionally used to treat seizure disorders, inflammation, spastic disorders and high cholesterol as well as sleep disorders.

German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, M. recutita) - - Used in this combination for its antianxiety effect. Chamomile also has antidiabetic action, some phytoestrogenic effects that may be a cancer preventive for estrogen-dependent and estrogen-independent cancers. Exerts a general antispasmodic action and a particular antispasmodic effect on the GI tract.. Safe for use in pregnant and nursing mothers, children under 2 and persons over 65.

Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) - This herb is used for its antianxiety and mild sedative effects. Passionflower makes a good addition to our formula due to its primary use for sleep disorders due to a feeling of nervous restlessness. No known contraindications.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) - Medicinal uses are primarily for restlessness and sleeping disorders based on nervous conditions. No known contraindications. Although some herbals state that valerian should not be used daily long-term; there is actually no research to support this caution.

Oatstraw (Avena stramentum) - Although this herb is used mostly for external inflammation or scaly skin with itching, the traditional internal use is for mild sedative purposes, thus we include it in our formula.

Linden flower (Tilia europaea) - Reduces nervous tension and helps prevent atherosclerosis. The German Commission E Monographs list linden as a medicinal treatment for colds and cold-related coughs.
Snooze-EZ may be taken 1/2 teaspoon 30 minutes before bedtime.

Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica) - Nettles are medicinally used for their anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties (for allergies and joint and arthritic pain) as well as showing promise in slowing progression of prostate cancer. We include them in this formula because of the high chlorophyll content which traditionally is used to boost the body's absorption of iron.

Yellow dock (Rumex crispus) - This herb is high in iron and is commonly used by midwives to aid in bringing pregnant mother's hemoglobin levels up to optimal ranges before childbirth.

Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) - Another herb high in iron that also helps offset the mild bowel stimulating aspect of yellow dock.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) - Excellent mild liver support that shows effectiveness in the treatment of colitis and urinary disorders due to its mild diuretic effect. This herb has a good iron content, making it a helpful addition to the Tri Iron formula.

Anise (Pimpinella anisum) - Anise has been shown to increase the body's uptake of iron. It is also used for dyspeptic tummy conditions as well as an expectorant for mucus conditions of the respiratory tract. Other actions include: mildly antispasmodic and antibacterial.
Tri Iron may be taken by anyone desiring to support healthy hemoglobin levels in the body by taking 1/2 to 1 teaspoon twice daily. 

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) - Excellent mild liver support that shows effectiveness in the treatment of colitis and urinary disorders due to its mild diuretic effect. This herb has also been used in the treatment of kidney stones, although this is not our purpose with this formula.

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) and Cornsilk (Zea Mays) - Both of these herbs are mucilaginous, thus they are used in this formula to soothe inflamed mucus membranes and tissue in the urinary tract. Cornsilk works extremely well to soothe the burning often associated with cystitis.

Cleavers (Galium aparine) - Diuretic in properties as well as serving as a lymphatic cleanser and mild astringent.

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon, V. oxycoccus, V. erythrocarpum) - Cranberry is primarily used to prevent urinary tract infections and prevent recurrence of kidney stones due to its ability to decrease ionized calcium in urine by 50%.