If you’re nearing your due date, the wait for labor can feel endless. If you’re full-term and eager to meet your baby, you might have heard of a powerful home remedy called Midwives Brew. Known for its potent combination of natural ingredients, this age-old concoction is said to jumpstart labor — sometimes within hours. But is it safe? What exactly is in it, and are there natural alternatives?
In this article, we’ll explore what Midwives Brew is, its recipe, potential risks, expert insights, and other gentle ways to help labor along naturally.
What Is Midwives Brew?
Midwives Brew is a herbal labor-inducing drink traditionally used by midwives in Europe, especially Germany. It combines castor oil, lemon verbena tea, almond butter, and apricot juice. These ingredients aren’t random—they each serve a specific purpose in helping your body gear up for labor.
“It’s a very strong mixture,” says Dr. Amanda Kelly, a certified nurse-midwife. “We typically only discuss it with patients who are full-term and under close medical supervision.”
Midwives Brew Ingredients and Why They’re Used
Ingredient |
Purpose |
|---|---|
| Castor Oil (2 tbsp) | Stimulates the bowels, which may trigger uterine contractions. |
| Lemon Verbena Tea (250 ml) | Calms the digestive system and improves taste. |
| Almond Butter (2 tbsp) | Slows digestion, allowing longer absorption of castor oil. |
| Apricot Juice (250 ml) | Enhances flavor and adds nutrients. |
How to Make Midwives Brew (Classic Recipe)
Important: Only attempt this under the guidance of your midwife or OB-GYN.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp castor oil (cold-pressed)
- 2 tbsp almond butter (natural)
- 250 ml apricot juice
- 250 ml lemon verbena tea (cooled)
Instructions:
- Brew and cool the lemon verbena tea.
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Drink it on an empty stomach, ideally in the morning.
- Rest and monitor for signs of labor within the next 6–12 hours.
Is Midwives Brew Safe?
While many women report success, Midwives Brew is not risk-free. The primary concern is castor oil, which can cause intense cramping, diarrhea, and dehydration.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), castor oil has been linked to the onset of labor in some clinical studies, but its use should always be supervised.
“The risk of dehydration or fetal distress makes it unsuitable for unsupervised home use,” says Dr. Leigh Roberts, OB-GYN and maternal health specialist.
Who should avoid Midwives Brew:
- Those under 40 weeks pregnant
- Anyone with a high-risk pregnancy
- Individuals with GI issues or allergies to ingredients
Safer, Natural Alternatives to Induce Labor
If you’re looking for gentler ways to Encourage the onset of labor, consider these natural labor induction methods that are generally safer:
- Walking or light exercise – Gravity helps encourage baby into position.
- Nipple stimulation – Can release oxytocin, which triggers contractions.
- Acupuncture or acupressure – Some studies show it may promote labor naturally.
- Dates (from 36 weeks onward) – May help soften the cervix. Source: Study
- Membrane stripping – Performed by a healthcare provider to help stimulate labor.
Real Experiences: Does It Really Work?
Always consult a healthcare provider before trying Midwives Brew or any labor induction method
Some moms report going into labor within hours after drinking Midwives Brew. Others experience only stomach upset — or nothing at all.
Emily, 39 weeks pregnant, shared her experience:
“It tasted awful, but six hours later, contractions began. I gave birth the next morning!”
However, remember that every body responds differently. Some moms swear by it, while others feel nothing at all—just like many things in pregnancy, your experience may vary.
Expert Recommendations & Evidence
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends avoiding unregulated induction methods unless medically necessary.
A 2013 review published in the Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine found that castor oil increased the likelihood of labor onset within 24 hours, but only in full-term pregnancies.
Also read:
- Why Am I Craving Watermelon?
- Why Am I Craving Corn? Here’s What It Really Means and How to Respond Smartly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Midwives Brew guaranteed to work?
No. While some women experience labor soon after drinking it, others don’t respond at all.
2. Can I take it before 40 weeks?
It’s strongly discouraged unless directed by your healthcare provider. Inducing labor too early can pose risks for the baby.
3. What does Midwives Brew taste like?
Most people describe it as unpleasant, oily, and hard to swallow due to the castor oil and almond butter.
4. How long after drinking Midwives Brew will labor start?
If effective, labor may begin within 4–12 hours. However, it’s not predictable.
5. Are there any side effects?
Yes. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and strong cramping are common due to castor oil.
✅ Final Thoughts: Should You Try Midwives Brew?
Midwives Brew may work for some, but it carries real risks and should only be considered after careful discussion with your doctor or midwife. If you’re seeking natural ways to encourage labor, try safer alternatives first, and always prioritize your baby’s safety and your own comfort.
Ready to Talk About Induction?
Before you try anything to speed things up, have a quick chat with your provider, including Midwives Brew—you and your baby deserve the safest path.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider, such as your midwife or obstetrician, before trying any labor induction methods, including Midwives Brew. Individual health conditions vary, and what works for one person may not be safe or effective for another. The use of castor oil and other ingredients should only be done under medical supervision.
