Everyday Herbs...Not Just a Garnish!

When we think of everyday herbs, we often picture a delicate sprinkle of parsley on a finished dish or a few leaves of basil tossed into a salad. But herbs are far more than just a pretty garnish—they are nutritional powerhouses packed with healing properties, making them an essential addition to any postpartum diet. From aiding digestion to balancing hormones, herbs have been used for centuries in traditional healing practices to support recovery and vitality.

Herbs and Postpartum Recovery

For new mothers, the postpartum period is a time of healing, nourishment, and replenishment. Herbs can play a vital role in this journey by supporting lactation, reducing inflammation, easing digestion, and even improving mood. Below are some of the best culinary herbs to include in a postpartum diet:

1. Parsley – Rich in Vitamins and Iron

Parsley is more than just a garnish—it’s packed with vitamin C, iron, and folate, all of which are crucial for postpartum recovery. It supports blood health, helps replenish lost nutrients, and provides a fresh, mild flavor to meals. It’s also a diuretic ie. helps flush out extra liquid so it’s perfect for helping with water retention!

2. Thyme – Supports Immunity and Digestion

Thyme is an antimicrobial powerhouse that helps support immune function, which is especially important during postpartum recovery. It also aids digestion and can help alleviate bloating and gas. A sprig of thyme steeped in hot water with honey in lemon is such a gorgeous tea. 

3. Rosemary – Enhances Circulation and Mood

Rosemary is known for its ability to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and even support cognitive function. It has been linked to mood enhancement, making it a great addition to postpartum meals & teas. 

4. Oregano – Antibacterial and Anti-Inflammatory

Oregano is packed with antioxidants and has natural antibacterial properties. It supports immune function and digestion, making it a valuable and under used herb for postpartum recovery. We love to add oregano to a brothy tomato soup, such a comforting favourite. 

5. Basil – Hormonal Balance and Stress Relief

Basil contains adaptogenic properties that can help reduce stress and promote hormonal balance. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and adds a delicious, fresh flavour to dishes. The smell of basil alone makes us feel like we’re on holiday! 

6. Dill – Eases Digestion and Supports Lactation

Dill is a fantastic herb for digestion, helping to relieve bloating and gas. It also supports lactation, making it a great choice for new mothers. We love dill with anything fishy and yoghurt based. Adds an extra taste layer and element of freshness! 

How to Incorporate Herbs into Your Diet

The good news is that adding herbs to your postpartum diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few easy ways to incorporate them into your meals and drinks:

• Broths and Soups – When making your bone broths, add a bunch of any herbs to add some extra nutritional support.

• Seasoning Blends – Mix fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, basil, and oregano into stews, sauces, and salads.

• Herb Teas – Steep thyme, sage, rosemary or basil in hot water for a refreshing, nutrient-packed tea.

• Bulk Oven-Roasted Vegetables – Sprinkle chopped herbs like rosemary and oregano over roasted vegetables for added flavour and benefits.

  
  

The Power of Culinary Herbs

Culinary herbs are nature’s way of offering gentle yet powerful nourishment, especially during the postpartum period. Beyond their vibrant flavours and aromas, they bring centuries of healing wisdom to the table, offering new mothers natural ways to support their recovery, lactation, and overall well-being. The use of herbs can flip a base soup recipe of onions, garlic & oil from asian when using coriander to mediterranean when using rosemary. The herbs that are indigenous to different parts of the world are often one of the defining tastes of the dish.

At The Mama Menu, we love to harness the power of herbs in our meals, snacks, and teas—ensuring every bite and sip works in harmony with your body’s healing journey. Because herbs are not just a garnish; they are powerful (and yummy) gifts from nature.