Motherhood & Herbal Support

Written by Jacky Hiscoe Barlow, Co-Owner of Barlow Roots

At Barlow Roots Farm, I cultivate, harvest and have worked with plant medicine for over 6 years. What I’ve found working with plant medicine during pregnancy and postpartum was truly transformative. As a mother, you are always thinking how you can gain energy, nutrients and feel good while looking after your babies.

I started making floral balms and infused oils in 2020 to help nourish my skin during pregnancy. I made herbal teas, infusions, supplements and tinctures for herbal support. The herbal oils were intuitive and felt as though my skin loved me for it. It has been known for centuries that healing herbs and botanicals have been used to support healthy skin, enhance the skin’s appearance, heal skin problems, and improve skin elasticity.

I lathered up with Calendula serum almost daily. It felt good, absorbing the benefits from an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidating flower powerhouse. Calendula balm quite literally saved me during breastfeeding and when I ran out of my own supply I always bought locally from Tilia Botanicals Store. Our skin creates a barrier from the outside world as it is our first line and defence against everyday pollutants, which is why I believe it is so important to nourish the skin with herbs. My go-to diaper rash formula was simply calendula infused oil and for teething rashes I used calendula balm. It was magical to see the rashes on their bodies/faces disappear within minutes.

I am so grateful to have found refuge during post-partum with teas, decoctions, cold infusions and cooking. I particularly enjoyed teas with lemon balm, chamomile and nettle. I love making cold infusions of our marshmallow root that cools inflammation and also making marshmallows for my children is a favourite.

The plants I grew, I used daily, and the gratification was felt every time I made a remedy or a meal. I know how loved the herbs that we grow are and I am happy to know what I put into myself, my children and my family is undeniably healthy.

I was able to witness how I felt with certain plants in my life, the smell of lavender, sage, thyme, oregano, lemon balm was uplifting. In the winter months, I need herbs and garlic to support my immunity and my family’s. We often use garlic powder in eggs, sauces, butter and dressings as it is easier for our littles to consume.

One beautiful discovery from my herbal journey is the amount of pollinators, birds and bugs that have gathered on Barlow Roots Farm. The plants have brought more nature into our lives and have been a garden of solace. My love of herbs, biodiversity, and sustainable growing has opened so many doors, from nourishing my body to my friend’s and my family’s.

Please note that this blog does not constitute as medical advice and is from personal experience only. It is not intended and should not be construed as medical advice to diagnose, treat, or cure, or prevent diseases. Always consult a health care professional if you have health concerns and take medications before using medicinal herbs.