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the Apothecary.

FOUNDER, ERIN DEGER.

"Embodying a symphony of plant energetics and complex atomic arrangements."

_____

HERBAL DIRECTORY

APRICOT (Prunus armeniaca)

NUTRITIVE. BALANCING. GALACTAGOGUE. 

Apricot is praised for milk production in folk medicine due to being rich in minerals, especially calcium. Apricot oil offers a rich abundance of essential fatty acids, including oleic acid, linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and is also high in vitamins A and E. 

Apricots may increase prolactin, a crucial hormone for breast milk production. This humble stone fruit has been known to improve hormonal balance and is rich in fibre, making it one of the most effective lactation-boosting fruits.

ALFALFA (Medicago sativa)

GALACTAGOGUE. NUTRITIVE. ANTI-FUNGAL. 

Well balanced and easily absorbed by the body, alfalfa is one of the most nutrient dense herbs with a wide range of therapeutic applications that are essential for postpartum replenishment. Specific to nursing mothers, alfalfa contains estrogenic properties and supports healthy lactation in women due to its high nutritional profile.

It is also a valuable plant for helping to optimise female hormonal balance. 

Alfalfa leaf promotes the function of the pituitary gland, which is the main source of lactation hormones in breastfeeding mothers. It contains blood cleansing chlorophyll, an abundant host of minerals - calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, silicon, zinc, numerous vitamins - A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C, D, E and K, as well as essential and non essential amino acids.

ANISEED (Pimpinella anisum)

GALACTAGOGUE. AROMATIC. CARMINATIVE. 

Aniseed is a soothing aromatic herb, with a sweet culinary note. This antispasmodic herb has been used for centuries to ease infant colic, abdominal cramps, nausea, flatulence, indigestion and heartburn. 

Aniseed is a traditional natural galactagogue with hormone balancing phytoestrogen, which may support emotional depletion and irritability by mimicking oestrogen-like properties within the body.

This rich aromatic herb is effective in regulating the mothers normal menstrual cycle after childbirth.

ALPHA BISABOLOL

GALACTAGOGUE. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. CARMINATIVE. 

Chamomile imbues powerful healing capabilities and can reduce soreness and inflammation of the nipples. The antimicrobial properties are effective against many germs, like staph, epidermis, corynebacteria, and candida albicans. Chamomile may help to calm the nervous system due to its powerful anxiolytic properties, essential for postpartum recovery.

BERRY WAX (Rhus verniciflua)

MOISTURISING. NOURISHING. PROTECTIVE.

A plant derived substitute to Beeswax. Rhus verniciflua peel wax is extrated from the peel of the Japanese Rhus verniciflua anacardaceae fruit. Commonly names as Berry wax, this rare and exotic ingredient soothes, softens and heals the most sensitive and irritated skin. In addition, it can guard against harmful environmental agressors and complex dermal issues by way of its ultra soft protective layer.

BLACK SESAME (Sesamum indicum)

GALACTAGOGUE. ANTIOXIDANT. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. 

Black sesame is an ayurvedic medicine staple and thought to balance out the ‘vata’ dosha which is excessive dryness. It is known to promote stability, strength and softness due to its warming nature. This is an incredible oil for anyone who tends to run cold, experiences dry skin or living in cold climates. Black sesame oil has strong antioxidant, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties to support optimal breast health in nursing mothers.

CALENDULA (Calendula officinalis)

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. ANTI-MICROBIAL. ANTI-FUNGAL.

Calendula is a calminitive and healing herb, perfect to prevent and restore cracked, dry nipples throughout nursing. It has the ability to stimulate the lymphatic system, aiding in blocked milk ducts, water retention and pain.

Calendula is known to be effective against candida; a fungus that can cause breast and nipple thrush in breastfeeding mothers.

CARAWAY (Carum carvi)

GALACTAGOGUE. CALMINITIVE. ANTISPASMODIC. 

In ayurvedic tradition, caraway is regarded as having synergistic effects when used in combination with other plants, as it is believed to improve the absorption of herbs. 

Caraway is also regarded for having a balancing and warming effect on the tissues. When the body is in a calm and balanced state, this encourages lactation to flow with ease and abundance. 

Richly aromatic in flavour, this gentle calmative herb is used to ease digestive discomfort and infant colic. Bursting with antioxidants and a wide range of essential minerals, caraway seeds offer an infusion of vitamins A, E, C and B vitamins. 

COCOA SEED (Theobroma cacao)

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. ANTI-BACTERIAL. ANTIOXIDANT. 

Packed with hydrating richness, cocoa seed supports circulation, stimulates blood flow and supports healthy skin. It is extremely rich in antioxidants, and omega 6 fatty acids to soothe and rejuvenate cracked and damaged skin. It has been shown to have a positive effect on stretch marks and scars, improving the texture and quality of the skin.

COCONUT (Cocos nucifera)

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. ANTI-MICROBIAL. ANTI-FUNGAL.

Coconut oil has potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant and anti-microbial properties that help to soothe inflammation, redness and topical skin infections. Coconut oil can help with soreness, irritation and thrush on the breast and nipples. It helps to restore moisture within the skin and prevents water loss. Coconut oil can reduce the appearance of scars and supports the general appearance of the skin.

CORN STARCH (Zea mays)

A wonder ingredient. This lightweight arrowroot powder is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, C and minerals of zinc, iron and calcium which are responsible for skin cell renewal and a healthy barrier function. With antibacterial and inflammatory properties, corn starch is designed to soothe, nurture and heal sensitive and irritated skin.

ECHINACEA (Echinacea angustifolia)

ANTIBACTERIAL. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. IMMUNE STIMULANT.  

Over 400 years ago, echinacea was primarily used as a superior wound healing agent, preventing wounds from becoming infected and speeding up the cell renewal process by stimulating the production of the white blood cells which are responsible for killing unwanted bacteria.

EVENING PRIMROSE (Oenothera biennis) 

BALANCING. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. ANTIOXIDANT. 

Breast milk naturally contains both gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and linoleic acid (LA), both of which are primary elements of evening primrose oil (EPO). Consumption of EPO has been successfully used to treat Raynaud's phenomenon of the nipple in nursing mothers due to its high content of (GLA) and (LA). 

EPO has been administered for the relief of breast pain both during nursing and menstruation. Breast tenderness and engorgement is particularly common in the early stages of nursing, when the milk supply is not yet regulated. Once mama’s menstrual cycle returns, the continued use of EPO may also help to alleviate symptoms of sore premenstrual breasts. 

When used topically, evening primrose oil soothes and moisturises the skin and enhances elasticity. It has been shown to reduce redness, dryness and irritation of the skin and has a soothing effect on conditions such as eczema and dermatitis due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

FENNEL (Foeniculum vulgare)

GALACTAGOGUE. CARMINATIVE. ANTISPASMODIC. 

Fennel emulates warm, grounding qualities and aids to increase the quantity and quality of breast milk both when taken internally and when applied topically. Fennel works as a gentle carminative and has been shown to pacify symptoms of colic in infants, making it a nourishing herb for both mum and bub.

Frequently used as a lactogenic herb, fennel has been found to stimulate mammary growth, increase breast milk production and assist with the letdown reflex in nursing mothers.

Fennel's reputation for enhancing breast milk is related to the abundance of phytoestrogen (a hormone similar to oestrogen in women) that induces the production of prolactin, which in turn triggers the mammary glands to secrete a desired dosage of breast milk.

FENUGREEK (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

GALACTAGOGUE. DIAPHORETIC. DIGESTIVE.


Promoting balance, this beautiful herb nourishes the tissues and encourages the healthy flow of nutrients and warming energy throughout the body by keeping channels relaxed and open. 

Yet the most superior of which is the presence of bioactive components, diosgenin and phytoestrogen, which bestows its powerful galactagogue properties and hence makes fenugreek such an effective preparation to enhance breast milk supply in nursing mothers. 

Fenugreek is known to soothe and strengthen the lining of the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and calming the digestion in both mother and baby. 

This nutritive herb is also bursting with protein, magnesium, iron and vitamin B6.

GOATS RUE (Galega officinalis)

GALACTAGOGUE. PURIFICATION. DIAPHORETIC. 

The name Galega is derived from gala, meaning milk, and ago, meaning to bring on

A natural galactagogue, goat rue is credited to possess a lactogenic effect that increases breast milk production by up to 50% in nursing mothers and may also stimulate the development of mammary glands. 

The presence of phytoestrogens in the goat’s rue plant mimics the action of oestrogen that binds to the oestrogen receptors and increases prolactin secretion, which is primarily responsible for the secretion of breast milk in lactating mothers.

JOJOBA (Simmondsia chinensis)

HYPO-ALLERGENIC. ANTI-BACTERIAL. ANTIOXIDANT.  

Soothe your sore breastfeeding nipples with the pure and healing properties of jojoba esters. Jojoba shares the same molecular structure as the natural wax esters within our skin.

This organic intelligence supports the skin to recognise jojoba as its own, allowing its receptor to receive the vital nutrients and antioxidants on a deeper layer, restoring balance and harmony to irritated, dry and inflamed skin.

Jojoba’s long chain straight fatty acids means it is a beautifully nourishing botanical used topically to soothe sore nipples, promote wound healing, and restore moisture loss from the demands of breastfeeding.

LECITHIN

EMOLLIENT. SOOTHING. MOISTURISING. 

Lecithin has strong emollient properties,  meaning that it directly soothes and hydrates the skin. It assists in adding an indulgent cushioning layer of protection to the skin. Due to its high oleic and linoleic acid levels, it can help to repair dry, cracked and damaged skin.

LEMON BALM (Melissa Officinalis)

CARMINATIVE. ANXIOLYTIC. ANTISPASMODIC.  

Stress and anxiety is a known inhibitor of milk supply in nursing mothers; lemon balm embodies a gentle function that relaxes and repairs tension on the nervous system through its carminative and anxiolytic actions, providing a sense of balance to the mind and body connection. 

Equally soothing and uplifting, lemon balm imbues antiviral, anti-bacterial and aromatic properties that has a tonic effect on the heart and circulatory system. Balm can relieve nervous indigestion, anxiety, mild depression and plays an important role in optimising sleep for tired mamas.

This nervine herb is specifically useful in mothers who may experience digestive upset worsened by the stress, exhaustion and anxiety of navigating early motherhood and thereafter.

LEMONGRASS (Cymbopogon)

DIGESTIVE. ANTI-FUNGAL. ANTI-DEPRESSANT. 

Lemongrass is a refreshing aromatic herb that has been extensively used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat numerous ailments, including digestive discomfort, poor circulation, low concentration, menstrual cramps, nausea, weak connective tissues, and as an effective antidepressant. 

Infused with an arrangement of rich antioxidants, lemongrass imbues a refreshing and cooling energy, beautifully beneficial and uplifting for new breastfeeding mothers. 

Lemongrass is widely used for its antibacterial, antimicrobial and lactogenic properties and may also help to improve blood circulation. 

MILK THISTLE (Silybum marianum)

GALACTAGOGUE. HEPATO-PROTECTIVE. ANTIOXIDANT. 

Anecdotally, milk thistle has long been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and healing practices for centuries, primarily to support milk supply in nursing mothers through stimulating the flow of blood to the mammary glands.

This purple flowering herb is believed to be beneficial for lactation due to its powerful oestrogen properties. Prolactin is a necessary hormone for breastfeeding mothers and its production is regulated in part by oestrogen. As a result, milk thistle’s oestrogen properties may increase prolactin secretions, making it a highly efficient lactation ritual. 

Aside from its milk enhancing properties, milk thistle is believed to have a wide range of health benefits both topically and orally, which include, strengthening the function of both the liver and spleen, reducing inflammation, supporting toxin elimination, increasing the diversity of gut microbiome; easing flatulence, constipation and stomach pains. 

Milk Thistle may also possess some beneficial anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

MORINGA (Moringa oleifera)

GALACTAGOGUE. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. NUTRITIVE.  

Traditionally known as the  "Miracle Tree", moringa has been used for thousands of years to support breastfeeding, providing an abundant source of nourishment for mum and bub. Rich in minerals, vitamins and antioxidants, moringa leaves are a natural galactagogue source, scientifically proven to increase milk supply and the flow of a mama’s milk.  Moringa also works wonders to calm skin inflammation, with potent healing abilities. 

NETTLE (Urtica dioica)

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. MINERALISER. BLOOD-BUILDING.

Nettle is a gentle milk boosting herb, embodying rich levels of chlorophyll, calcium, magnesium, protein and other rich nutrients. A replenishing blood builder, nettle contains high levels in iron, greatly needed to restore blood loss during childbirth and prevent iron deficiency anaemia. 

Nettle preparations may increase lymphatic drainage, encouraging the detoxification process, eliminating dense metabolic blockages. 

Strengthening and supportive to whole body health, nettle is a nourishing herb that may help to combat adrenal fatigue. An anti-diabetic herb, nettle may also improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin; this plays an important role in the onset of milk production. 

The nettle leaf is a potent anti-inflammatory herb and may prevent or improve many of the typical “bumps in the road'' that mothers experience in the early weeks postpartum.

OLIVE OIL (Olea europaea)

ANALGESIC. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. ANTIOXIDANT.

Olive oil is a hydrating and soothing oil which may help to prevent cracked and sore nipples while breastfeeding due to its strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil works to restore moisture, and can clear and loosen any white milk blebs that may form on the nipples and help to unplug ducts.

ROSEHIP (Rosa canina)

ANTIOXIDANT. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. ANTI-AGEING.

Rich in essential fatty acids (Omegas 3,6 and 9), vitamins A, C & E and antioxidants, rosehip oil is easily absorbed, helping to repair and regenerate damaged skin tissue, soothing mama’s sore nipples and tender breasts. 

Rosehip oil has been proven beneficial and highly effective in the treatment of scars, dry skin, stretch marks, burns and wrinkles. It is further known to be an effective anti-inflammatory and may assist with accelerating wound healing of sore cracked nipples and reducing common skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

ROSEMARY LEAF (Salvia rosmarinus)

ANTIOXIDANT. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. ANTI-MICROBIAL.

Rosemary activates the ‘rasa’ or the lymph, which may lead to higher milk production.  It is a potent antioxidant, it protects the skin and has powerful calming effects when applied topically.

Rosemary also imbues anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties, which can be used to treat breast and nipple thrush, and soothe redness, inflammation and pain. Rosemary's antioxidant effects help to reduce the signs of ageing and help to tighten and plump the skin.

SHATAVARI (Asparagus racemosus)

GALACTAGOGUE. ADAPTOGEN. TONIC.

Shatavari is highly regarded as one of the most effective female tonics. Considered the ‘Queen of women’s herbs’, Shatavari imbues an abundance in phytoestrogenic properties; an essential preparation to support nursing mothers and postpartum wellness.

Placing it in good company with many traditional galactagogues, this restorative whole-body tonic herb gently elevates vitality and balances the mind, body and spirit connection, promoting emotional wellbeing, and a sense of calm within.

VITAMIN E (Tocopherol)

ANTIOXIDANT. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. MOISTURISING.

Vitamin E is synthesized by plant origin and is found naturally occurring in the skin. This wondrous ingredient forms an integral part of the skin's antioxidant defences. It remains a popular dermatology treatment for a number of skin disorders owing to its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and rich moisturising properties. Topical application of natural vitamin e offers the most consistent data of safety and efficacy with the ability to permeate both the epidermis and dermis layers.

SOYBEAN (Glycine soja)

ANTIOXIDANT. EMOLLIENT. MOISTURISING.

Soybean oil is a non-fragrant profile plant oil harnessing a multitude of skin conditioning benefits. As with many plant oils, it imbues skin-smoothing emollient properties, with a rich source of antioxidants and replenishing fatty acids such as palmitic, stearic, oleic and linoleic. In oil form, these powerful properties are responsible for the soothing and conditioning effect that soy carries in the presence of external agressors. 

SUNFLOWER SEED (Helianthus annuus seed)

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY. EMOLLIENT. REGENERATIVE.

Linoleic and oleic acids present in sunflower seeds help in the formation of collagen and elastin, making it an optimal natural remedy for wound-healing and preventing the formation of scar tissue. Both vital fatty acids are found naturally occurring in breast milk. The oils protecive barrier creates a shield around the wound to keep moisture and antioxidants locked into the skin while preventing germs and other pollutants from infecting the vulnurable area. Our Bosom Ritual Balm utilises the powerful moisture-retaining and protective benefits to aid in the damage and discomfort associated with early breastfeeding in particular.

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