Some breast-feeding mothers may find their milk supply to be inadequate for their baby. While your doctor is able to prescribe medications designed to increase milk supply, you might prefer to go the natural route. There is some anecdotal evidence that certain herbal supplements may help nursing mothers increase their breast milk supply. Discuss your use of herbal remedies with your doctor before you begin.
How Herbal Remedies are Used
Traditionally, a few different herbal remedies have been used to help breast-feeding mothers regularly turn to boost their milk supply. These are referred to as galactogogues, or milk-makers. Herbal galactogogues are not regulated by the FDA; however, many women claim that they do work, based on their own personal experiences. Herbal remedies for milk supply can be taken in capsule form, and they are sometimes available as a tea. The tincture versions of some herbal remedies for milk supply may contain alcohol, though the amount is generally so low that it will not affect the baby. You may prefer to skip tinctures altogether if this is a concern.
Common Herbal Remedies
Fenugreek, blessed thistle and fennel are commonly used to boost breast milk supply. All three are considered safe when taken as directed. The Newman Breastfeeding Clinic and Institute recommends three capsules three times daily for both fenugreek and blessed thistle, and reports that these two herbs seem to be more effective when taken together. Fennel and fenugreek seeds may also be combined in a tea which is considered safe for breastfeeding women to drink. Other herbal remedies that may help boost milk supply include red raspberry leaf, alfalfa, motherwort, chamomile and stinging nettle, many of which are also available as a tea. Always follow the directions on the label.
Caution With Herbals
Because herbal remedies are not regulated by the FDA, there is no standardized capsule. Different brands may contain different herbal concentrations. In addition, concentrations may differ from pill to pill or bottle to bottle, even within the same brand. Fortunately, following the directions on the label is generally safe for nursing moms, as little of the herb is actually transmitted to the baby through the breast milk. Another caution: Just because mother's nursing teas are safe for breast-feeding moms does not mean that all herbal teas are OK. Nursing moms should avoid drinking teas that contain ginseng, comfrey, licorice or sassafras, as they may have harmful effects for the baby.
Other Solutions
In addition to herbal remedies, nursing mothers can boost their milk supply with a few simple changes to their diet or breastfeeding schedule. Garlic, ginger and oatmeal may all help increase breast milk supply. In addition, simply relaxing with a cup of tea, nursing blend or not, can help a woman's breast milk supply simply by reducing her stress and tension. Finally, the best thing a woman can do to increase her milk supply is to breast-feed her baby more frequently.
