Many supplements have been studied for lactation, including fenugreek seed, Coleus amboinicus (torbangun) extract, and moringa leaves. However, there is no robust or consistent data to support the effectiveness of supplements in increasing milk supply for lactating parents. Some trials examining single or multi-ingredient supplements and teas have reported positive findings, like increased milk volume and higher infant weight. However, other trials have found no effect on lactation, and the evidence is too limited to make strong conclusions about efficacy.[1][2][3]
It is important for lactating parents to speak with a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about lactation medicine before using a supplement while breastfeeding. Some herbal supplements may suppress lactation, including jasmine, licorice extracts in high doses, peppermint, and sage, although the evidence for this is limited and sometimes anecdotal.[4]. It is also possible for supplements to pass into human milk and change its taste, color, and/or composition.[5][6] Some of these changes may affect the infant.
References
- ^Vida Ghasemi, Masoomeh Kheirkhah, Mohsen VahediThe Effect of Herbal Tea Containing Fenugreek Seed on the Signs of Breast Milk Sufficiency in Iranian Girl InfantsIran Red Crescent Med J.(2015 Aug 15)
- ^Siew Cheng Foong, May Loong Tan, Wai Cheng Foong, Lisa A Marasco, Jacqueline J Ho, Joo Howe OngOral galactagogues (natural therapies or drugs) for increasing breast milk production in mothers of non-hospitalised term infantsCochrane Database Syst Rev.(2020 May 18)
- ^Ravi, R et alEffect of fenugreek on breast milk production and weight gain among Infants in the first week of lifeClinical Epidemiology and Global Health.
- ^Anderson PODrugs that Suppress Lactation, Part 2.Breastfeed Med.(2017-May)
- ^Naor N, Fridman E, Kouadio F, Merlob P, Linder NGreen Breast Milk Following Ingestion of Blue-Green Algae: A Case Report.Breastfeed Med.(2019-Apr)
- ^Yazgan H, Demirdöven M, Yazgan Z, Toraman AR, Gürel AA mother with green breastmilk due to multivitamin and mineral intake: a case report.Breastfeed Med.(2012-Aug)