Embracing a natural lifestyle and making choices that bring you closer to nature can be incredibly rewarding, especially during pregnancy. One way to support your health and well-being is by making your own NORA tea. NORA tea, a blend of nettle, oatstraw, red raspberry leaf, and alfalfa, is renowned for its nutritional benefits during pregnancy. Let’s explore how to make this tea, the benefits it offers, and the joy of growing or foraging your own herbs.
What is NORA Tea?
NORA tea is an herbal blend that provides essential vitamins and minerals beneficial during pregnancy. Each herb contributes unique properties:
- Nettle (Urtica dioica): Rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. It supports overall health and helps with energy levels.
- Oatstraw (Avena sativa): Contains calcium and magnesium, supporting the nervous system and promoting relaxation.
- Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus): High in iron, it helps tone the uterus, easing labor and postpartum recovery.
- Alfalfa (Medicago sativa): Packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, it supports blood clotting and overall health.
Recommended Ratio for NORA Tea
To make your own NORA tea blend, use the following ratio:
- 1 part Nettle
- 1 part Oatstraw
- 1 part Red Raspberry Leaf
- 1 part Alfalfa
For example, if you use 1 cup of each herb, you will have a balanced blend ready for brewing.
How to Make NORA Tea
- Mix the Herbs:
- Combine equal parts of dried nettle, oatstraw, red raspberry leaf, and alfalfa in a large bowl.
- Store the blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
- Brew the Tea:
- Use 1-2 tablespoons of the herbal blend per cup of boiling water.
- Steep for 15-20 minutes, strain, and enjoy.
- For a convenient and eco-friendly option, use a Mason Jar Tea Infuser from Mountain Rose Herbs.
- Daily Intake:
- Drink 1-3 cups of NORA tea daily to enjoy its benefits throughout your pregnancy.
Where to Buy Herbs
You can purchase high-quality dried herbs from reputable suppliers like Mountain Rose Herbs and Starwest Botanicals. These companies offer organic and sustainably sourced herbs:
Growing and Foraging Your Own Herbs
For those who love living close to nature and making natural choices, growing your own herbs or wild foraging can be incredibly fulfilling.
Growing Your Own Herbs:
- Nettle: Prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Be cautious of its stinging hairs when harvesting.
- Oatstraw: Plant oats in full sun with well-drained soil. Harvest the green tops before they flower.
- Red Raspberry Leaf: Grow raspberry bushes in well-drained soil with full sun. Harvest the leaves in the spring or early summer.
- Alfalfa: Needs full sun and well-drained soil. Harvest when the plant is in full bloom.
Wild Foraging:
- Foraging is an excellent way to connect with nature, but it requires proper plant identification to ensure safety.
- Use reputable foraging guides or consult with experienced foragers to correctly identify and harvest edible plants.
- Always forage sustainably, taking only what you need and leaving enough for the ecosystem to thrive.
Benefits of NORA Tea
- Nutrient-Rich: Provides essential vitamins and minerals that support pregnancy health.
- Uterine Tonic: Red raspberry leaf helps tone the uterus, potentially easing labor and improving postpartum recovery.
- Energy Boost: Nettle and oatstraw can help boost energy levels and reduce fatigue.
- Relaxation: Oatstraw supports the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Living close to nature and making natural choices can significantly enhance your pregnancy journey. Whether you decide to purchase your herbs from trusted suppliers or grow and forage your own, making NORA tea is a wonderful way to support your health and well-being naturally. Enjoy the process and the many benefits this nourishing tea brings to you and your baby.
Your midwife, Patricia
Disclaimer
Always consult with your midwife or healthcare provider before adding any new herbal teas or supplements to your diet, especially during pregnancy. While NORA tea is generally considered safe, it’s essential to ensure it’s appropriate for your individual health needs.
Love & Root Homebirth Midwifery and Apothecary 