top of page
Search

Shepherd’s Purse in the Birth Space

ree

The Right Herb, The Right Time, The Right Understanding


There are herbs that invite the uterus to release, and others that help the uterus seal. Confusing those roles can mean misunderstanding the delicate sequence of the third and fourth stages of labor.


One of the most misunderstood herbs in this sacred space is Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris); a small, humble plant with heart-shaped seed pods and a mighty reputation for stopping bleeding.


In this article, we’ll walk through the right role and timing for Shepherd’s Purse, clear up its confusion with Angelica archangelica, and look at how this simple herb works in the body when used wisely, prayerfully, and in alignment with birth’s natural design.


The Confusion: Angelica vs. Shepherd’s Purse

In the herbal birth world, these two plants are sometimes mentioned side by side; and that’s where much of the misunderstanding begins.


Angelica archangelica is known as a uterine stimulant (emmenagogue). It is said to help the uterus release the placenta, encouraging separation and expulsion.


Shepherd’s Purse, on the other hand, is a hemostatic and uterotonic. It helps the uterus contract down firmly after the placenta is already born, sealing vessels, reducing bleeding, and restoring tone.


Using them in the wrong order can disrupt the sacred rhythm of the body:

  • Angelica (if used) would belong before the placenta is expelled; though, as we’ve learned, it carries bleeding risks and should be used with discernment or not at all.

  • Shepherd’s Purse, however, belongs after the placenta is delivered; when the uterus needs to firm up and bleeding needs to stop.


How Shepherd’s Purse Works

Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) is a small, wild plant in the mustard family. For centuries, it has been used by midwives and herbalists to help manage postpartum bleeding and restore uterine tone.


Here’s how it supports the birth process after the placenta is born:

  • Astringent Action:

    Shepherd’s Purse contains tannins and peptides that tighten and constrict tissues, helping close off small blood vessels in the uterus.

  • Uterotonic Properties:

    The herb stimulates gentle uterine contractions that help the uterus clamp down; the natural safeguard against excessive postpartum bleeding.

  • Vascular Regulation:

    It helps the uterus transition from an open, expansive organ during labor to a firm, sealed vessel after the placenta’s separation, assisting the body’s clotting response.

  • Nervine and Balancing Support:

    It’s sometimes described as grounding and toning to the pelvic region; helping the body re-center after the intense work of birth.


Shepherd’s Purse should not be used to help deliver the placenta.

Instead, it is intended after the placenta has already detached and been born.


Here’s why:

Shepherd’s Purse works by encouraging the uterus to clamp down. If given before the placenta is out, it can cause the uterus to tighten prematurely, trapping the placenta inside and potentially increasing bleeding or causing retained fragments.


Once the placenta has separated and the uterus is ready to close, Shepherd’s Purse becomes a powerful ally, helping the body finish the process God designed it to do naturally.


In short:

"Angelica opens and releases. Shepherd’s Purse seals and restores."

How to Use Shepherd’s Purse in the Birth Space

(For educational and informational purposes only — not medical advice.)


When: After the placenta has been completely delivered.

How:

Tincture form: 1–2 dropperfuls (approx. 30–60 drops) in a small amount of water or juice, or directly under the tongue, may be repeated as needed under guidance of an experienced birthworker or herbalist.

Tea form: Not commonly used immediately postpartum (tincture is preferred for rapid absorption).

Observation: Always continue to monitor bleeding and uterine tone closely. If bleeding persists despite proper use, initiate standard postpartum hemorrhage management protocols immediately, herbs are supportive, not substitutes for emergency care.


In every stage of birth, we honor God’s perfect sequence, the body opens, releases, and then restores. Shepherd’s Purse is one of those gentle tools in situations that ask of our obedient assistance, that mirrors that divine design. It doesn’t rush the process; it helps complete it.


When used at the right time and circumstance, with prayer and partnership, it can be a beautiful bridge between tradition and modern wisdom, a reminder that the earth holds resources that echo God’s care for mothers.


Let every mother and birth worker be guided not by fear or confusion, but by discernment and reverence.


A Note of Caution

While Shepherd’s Purse is widely considered safe when used appropriately, a few notes of care are important:

  • Avoid use before the placenta is born.

  • Avoid use in pregnancy (it can stimulate the uterus).

  • Use caution with clotting disorders or blood-thinning medications.

  • Quality matters, always use tinctures from trusted, organic herbal sources.



⚠️ Disclaimer

The information is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is meant to equip birth workers and families with knowledge to support informed decision-making in collaboration with their chosen care providers.


Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbs, essential oils, or natural remedies during pregnancy, labor, or postpartum.




Join our Virtual Doula Training program here:



 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page