Breast milk is the most nutritionally dense and safest food for new born babies. It is advised to feed them solely with mother’s milk for up to six months and later introduce some other semi solid foods. Many times it is only mis assessed by mothers that their feed is not enough but it is not the case. They are producing an abundant amount which is adequate for their baby. However, if the milk supply is inadequate or low then it is something to worry about. Mothers usually get overstressed due to this, as they start blaming themselves for not producing sufficient milk to feed their little ones. Newly turned mothers have a hard time getting a hang on breastfeeding. A general rule of thumb is to latch more to produce more. The more you pump it or the baby sucks it, the more your milk flow gets better.
Don’t worry mothers! There are many herbal lactation supplements available, which can tackle this issue smartly. These herbs are also referred to as galactagogue, a substance that improves lactation in feeding mothers. The source could be synthetic or plant-based but it addresses low milk supply problems. You could also visit a lactation consultant to know about milk supply supplements which stimulates milk production. They could suggest you the suitable herb with the right amount of doses required. Here are a few suggestions for the top most herbs used worldwide to increase milk flow and its quantity.
1- Fenugreek
A very popular Asian herb known for many reasons. It has significant importance in the ayurvedic world. It is used in many cooking recipes, deals with health issues and is also considered as a booster to milk supply for nursing mothers. It smells like maple syrup, many times it is reported that mothers sweat and baby’s pee start smelling the same but not to worry about. This herbal lactation supplement is a vital ingredient in many lactation teas, consuming two to three cups a day can lead to significant increase in milk supply. Don’t use it if you are pregnant and feeding simultaneously, because it could be a high risk for the mother.
2- Fennel seeds
Another famous aromatic herb often used to relieve the symptoms of gas, bloating and digestion issues. It is also widely used in kitchens for many cooking recipes. Many studies suggest that consuming fennel seeds while lactating can increase the volume and fat content of milk and thus improves the quality of the milk. This herbal lactation supplement increases the milk productivity of feeding mothers by working on the hormones of the female body that are estrogen and prolactin. Adding in teas, in your daily meals or even sprinkling on salads is a good way to include it in your diets.
3- Brewer’s yeast
Brewer’s yeast is a fungus that is produced to make beer and bread. Another common use of this herb is to utilize it as a probiotic which encourages a healthy gut and better immunity. It contains a rich source of proteins, B-vitamins, iron and many trace minerals too. It is a galactagogue, a substance that promotes lactation. It is considered safe and beneficial as it is a nutritional dense supplement and increases energy levels of feeding mothers. Similarly, it also prevents fatigue and postpartum depression commonly known as baby blues.
4- Milk thistle
A purple flowered plant with prickly spines on it, also has another name Mary thistle. A mediterranean herb which has a long history in medicine, healing and also being linked up with lactation from decades. It is a well known milk supply supplement which helps mothers to make more milk. The white veins of milk appearing on the plant resembles just like veins in the breast. Plant estrogens present in the herb boosts milk supply because many mothers need this jump start for feeding their infants. Plant seeds are boiled and consumed like tea, normally two to three times a day.
5- Blessed thistle
Blessed thistle commonly known as holy thistle is another effective herb used to stimulate breast milk production in mothers. This herb is different from milk thistle, so it shouldn’t be mixed together. It works on the prolactin and oxytocin levels of women, both of these are responsible for milk production. This is an effective ingredient commercially added in herbal lactation supplements and milk supply booster for nursing mothers. Many times it is advised to combine it with fenugreek seeds like in a tea to treat the issue of low milk supply. just remember not to exceed the recommended dose suggested by your consultant.
6- Cumin seeds
Cumin is a flowering plant, each one contained within a fruit that is dried. Very familiar in Asian recipes, it has lots of benefits, for instance, it aids in digestion, helps in weight loss, stimulates bowel movements, treats gastric issues and yes for increasing milk supply too. It can be taken in teas, in capsules form or even many lactation cookies have it as a major ingredient. Its intake can certainly improve your milk flow.
7- Moringa
While moringa oleifera has gained a lot of fame in the past few years, the plant has been considered as a super food for decades. All parts of plants are beneficial in terms of nutrition and natural remedies. Studies suggest that taking moringa could almost double the milk supply. Many lactation consultants recommend moringa to boost milk supply and similarly, it is nutrient dense food for the mothers as well. You can add in your daily teas, latte or smoothies also.
Summing up
Breast milk provides a perfect blend of nutrients to your newborn. Mothers are suggested to consume a balanced diet for better quality milk and to keep themselves healthy and active. Not all mothers naturally produce sufficient milk, so they need help to kick start their feeding system. They then use different herbs, lactation cookies and supplements to improve it. Herbs have milk boosting effects for many women. It is advised to always ask a doctor before you start adding any herb in your diet. Herbs may work effectively on some but may not produce the same results with others so you need to be patient about it