Breastfeeding Herbs
If you are having difficulty with your milk supply or even want to dry up your milk after weaning, you may consider breastfeeding herbs to help.
One mom who was pumping exclusively researched breastfeeding herbs extensively because she wanted to make sure that her supply would always be enough for her daughter. The best two herbs for increasing supply that she found were Blessed Thistle and Fenugreek. These two herbs are also commonly found in breastfeeding herbal combinations – capsules, teas and tinctures.
My lactation consultant recommended Blessed Thistle. She said that many mothers found a significant increase in their milk supply in a week after beginning the herb. You can buy capsules at your local health store and the recommended dose is up to 4 capsules 3 times a day.
Another popular galactagogue (also known as breastfeeding herbs) is Fenugreek. The recommended dosage for this herb is 2-4 capsules, three times a day. Some mothers find that they notice an increase in as little as 24 hours. You should be able to smell the fenugreek (smells like maple syrup) in your sweat if you’re consuming enough.
If you want to dry up your milk quickly, you might try herbs that have the opposite effect, such as those found in Earth Mama Angel Baby Organic Herbal Tea “No More Milk”
Whenever you take herbs, keep in mind that even though they are natural it doesn’t always mean they are safe. Monitor any side effects you have and watch your baby closely. If you feel there are any adverse reactions to the herb, discontinue its use immediately.
More information on using herbs while breastfeeding:
Mother Food: A Breastfeeding Diet Guide with Lactogenic Foods and Herbs
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