I never just take a bath, to take a bath. There has to be something theraputic added to the tub to make a long soak worth my while. Sometimes it is oatmeal, other times it is apple cider vinegar, or baking soda. Tonight it is TEA! And since I am very pregnant this tub tea is specific for pregnancy.
Why Magnesium?
Magnesium helps with sleep. (for everyone, not just when your pregnant) It helps with mood and avoiding morning sickness. Magnesium soothes aches and pains, helps prevent cramps, increases bone density, and much much more… Magnesium is my go-to-constant-addition to every bath.
Oh, and I use this one.
Why raspberry leaves?
Red raspberry leaves are amazing! And are a must have not only for pregnancy but for many other reasons. The big reason for using them in the bath is that they soothe smooth muscles, and aid the body in relaxation.
“Red raspberry leaves contains a rich assortment of vitamins including Vitamin B complex, calcium, iron, magnesium and fragarine. Across the world, red raspberry leaf is used to treat flu, diarrhea and acne. It is used to lower the blood sugar of diabetic women, regulate irregular menstrual cycles, decrease heavy periods and lower blood pressure.
When taken during pregnancy, red raspberry leaf is said to aid the mother’s immune system, ease morning sickness and promote better circulation. Taking raspberry leaf is said to strengthen uterine muscles and tone the pelvic floor in preparation for childbirth, as well as assist with breastmilk supply.” (source)
I used fresh raspberry leaves from my garden. You could also buy raspberry leaf tea like this one.
Raspberry Tub Tea
What you’ll need:
1 ounce loose red raspberry leaf
1 pint boiled water
magnesium oil (follow the directions on your bottle of magnesium for the amount to put in the tub)
Mix the raspberry leaves with boiling water and steep, just like a drinkable tea. Draw a bath and add the tea and magnesium oil. Great for the aches and pains of pregnancy. It will also help you sleep better, and reduce nauseau.
If using this for pregnancy, like I am, keep in mind that your internal body temperature needs to remain below 99 degrees. If you feel to hot get out for a minute and let yourself cool back down.
So, go make some tea and dump it in the tub. If your family is like mine your kids will make funny comments. As I dumped the tea in, my three year old said, “What?! TEA?!!” Which was immediately followed by my seven year old saying, “Mom, sometimes you are SO weird.” Then you can laugh at them, not care what they think, and enjoy a relaxing bath and a good nights sleep!