Cultivated throughout the world as a culinary spice, fenugreek, or Trigonella foenum-graecum, is an annual herb that produces aromatic seeds valued in Middle Eastern cuisine. Fenugreek seeds, prepared as a tea, may be given to lactating mothers who want to produce more breast milk. Although fenugreek tea may have an effect on milk production, research in this area is lacking. Consult your pediatrician before using any herbal remedy when you're breastfeeding.
Uses
Fenugreek tea is aromatic, but some find the taste bitter and disagreeable. In addition to its historical use as a galactogogue, meaning it is a substance that enhances milk production, the tea may reduce the symptoms of respiratory conditions and may be beneficial in treating diabetes. Clinical studies confirming these benefits, however, are lacking.
Constituents/Nutrients
Fenugreek seeds contain a number of nutrients, including vitamins A, B-1 and C, and they are a good source of fiber. The seeds also contain a number of components, including flavonoids, volatile oils, sterols and trigonelline, a constituent specific to fenugreek. Trigonelline may be the component that acts as a galactogogue, The "PDR for Herbal Medicines," notes that there is no indication that fenugreek seeds have the ability to promote milk production, however.
Preparation/Dosage
Some herbal blends, sold as lactation-enhancing products, contain fenugreek, and the herb is available in bulk in health food stores or in the spice aisle of your local grocery store. Prepare an herbal tea by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of fenugreek seeds and steep for 10 minutes before straining. Drink up to 3 cups per day, but only on the advice of your doctor.
Side Effects/Considerations
The FDA does not regulate herbal remedies so there is no guarantee that the fenugreek seeds you buy are fresh and chemical or pesticide-free. Visit with your doctor or a lactation expert before using any herbal remedy to increase milk flow.
While side effects are not common, the Children's Nutrition Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine advises breastfeeding mothers that using fenugreek may cause stomach upset in infants. In addition, both mother and baby can develop an odor similar to maple syrup, which could be mistaken as a symptom of a metabolic disorder called Maple Syrup Urine disease.
References
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD, 2000
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Baylor College of Medicine: Consumer News -- Facts and Answers: Fenugreek
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