5-W

5-W is an herbal combination designed to aid women during the final stages of pregnancy and childbirth. 5-W contains herbs which promote the overall toning of uterine tissues in preparation for childbirth, and the calming of false contractions. 5-W also relieves pain, relaxes uterine muscle spasms, and reduces the anxiety and irritability often associated with childbirth. 5-W is recommended especially during the last five weeks of pregnancy to facilitate an easier delivery and quicker recovery, particularly in women with difficult or prolonged labor.

5-W can also be used to help dysmenorrhea, hot flashes, menstrual cramping and spasms, and other menstrual irregularities. Women suffering from infertility or at risk for spontaneous abortion may benefit from supplementation for several months prior to conception in order to improve uterine tone and hormonal balance.

Black cohosh provides mild estrogenic activity and soothes irritation and congestion of the cervix, uterus and vagina. According to research findings, black cohosh alleviates the pain and distress associated with pregnancy, and stimulates uterine contractions, facilitating easy, quick and uncomplicated childbirth and delivery. Black cohosh also acts as an anti-inflammatory, mild sedative, smooth muscle and nerve relaxant, and mild analgesic (pain-reliever) due to the presence of salicylic acid. Black cohosh’s estrogenic effects may improve fertility in estrogen-deficient women.1-5

Butcher’s broom, often regarded as a circulatory tonic, has been shown to provide anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and vasoconstrictive (blood vessel narrowing) properties, as well as the ability to reduce capillary permeability. These combined actions help prevent formation of, as well as aid in the treatment of, hemorrhoids and varicose veins—common problems associated with pregnancy. In Europe, a standardized extract of butcher’s broom is commonly employed for treating venous pain, cramps, edema, and varicose ulcers, particularly during and after pregnancy.5-7

Dong quai helps tone a weak uterus, balances hormonal irregularities, and enhances the natural rhythm of the menstrual cycle. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, dong quai is a nutritive, warming, metabolic stimulant which clears blockages or stagnation in the reproductive organs and restores fertility. However, dong quai is also used to ensure an easy delivery, providing smooth muscle-relaxing, sedative, and analgesic qualities.1,8-10

Red raspberry leaves are a rich source of calcium, magnesium and iron—nutrients essential for female reproductive health. Raspberry leaves also have astringent properties which help tone and tighten blood vessels and tissues, especially in the uterus. Although the specific mechanisms are still unclear, researchers believe raspberry leaves promote easier labor by strengthening the longitudinal muscles of the uterus, enhancing the force of contractions and thus quickening childbirth. This effect may be attributed to the presence of the alkaloid fragarine, which exerts the ability to tonify pelvic muscles and the uterus. Furthermore, raspberry leaves help reduce uterine swelling following delivery, promoting expulsion of the placenta and decreasing postpartum bleeding.3,8

Squawvine is regarded as a female fertility and pregnancy tonic herb, known for its specific actions affecting the uterus—stimulating circulation, relieving congestion, improving tone, and relaxing spasms. Squawvine also provides diuretic and sedative effects. Squawvine has long been used to help relieve labor pain, nervous exhaustion and irritability, and is employed extensively to aid labor and childbirth. Squawvine is also believed to increase breast-milk production.3,11