Many women look for herbs to help them produce more breast milk. There are a few herbs  you can use to improve breast milk supply. If you wish to produce more breast milk, try incorporating one or more of the ten breastfeeding herbs listed below into your diet. However, before including herbal galactagogues into your daily routine, speak with your midwife or a lactation specialist about your worries about low milk production. While most of these herbs are safe in the right amounts, some may interact with medicines. Many galactagogues have an impact on hormones, particularly estrogen. For patients with estrogen-sensitive malignancies or who are currently on hormone treatment, they should be used with caution or avoided altogether. The majority of galactagogues should be avoided during pregnancy.

Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are one of the most effective herbs for increasing milk supply in breastfeeding women. It also contains phytoestrogen and diosgenin. These seeds are also high in galactagogue, which makes them ideal for moms who want to increase the amount of breast milk they produce. Fenugreek is a herb that has been used to increase breast milk flow for generations. However, pregnant women should avoid using fenugreek because it has been used to induce labor. Other diabetics should also avoid fenugreek. While it has been promoted as a diabetes treatment, evidence suggests it may not be helpful.

Blessed Thistle

Blessed thistle is another herb that has been linked to increased breast milk supply. It is native to the Mediterranean and is reported to work best when paired with fenugreek or other galactagogues (substances that supports lactation). Blessed thistle is entirely safe for breastfeeding women when consumed in moderation. Taking blessed thistle while pregnant, however, is not advised. The herb also acts as a uterine stimulant, which may cause the body to begin contracting. Blessed thistle comes in a variety of forms, including capsules, tinctures, and teas.

Goat’s Rue

Goat’s rue, commonly known as French lilac, is a Middle Eastern and European plant. It is a member of the same fenugreek family as fenugreek. This herb can aid in the production of breast milk as well as the development of breast tissue. Goat’s rue can reduce blood sugar when consumed in high amounts and be a potent herb for lactation. Diabetics should exercise caution when using this product. Only use dried goat’s rue, which can be consumed in capsules or brewed into a tea.

Moringa

Moringa leaves are natural galactagogues, and scientific studies have shown that women who include Moringa in their diet have more breast milk. It is safe to take for breastfeeding and pregnant women; however, it is not recommended for women who are attempting to conceive because the characteristics in Moringa may make it more difficult to conceive. In addition, Moringa is high in iron and contains many vital vitamins and amino acids. One scoop of moringa powder is estimated to provide nearly half of your daily iron requirement.

Shatavari

Shatavari is an Ayurvedic herb that is commonly used to enhance the female reproductive system and boost breast milk production. So far, research appears to back up its historical use as a galactagogue. It’s available in powder form, capsules, and as a liquid extract. Shatavari may also aid in hormone balance following pregnancy. 

Fennel

Fennel is a sweet, licorice-flavored herb that grows wild along the Mediterranean Sea’s beaches. This aromatic plant can be used in both cooking and medicine. Fennel has been used to cure a number of ailments, including digestive disorders and menstrual irregularities. It is also thought to aid in the production of milk in breastfeeding mothers. Fennel can be eaten or used in teas. Fresh in salads or sautéed with other veggies, it’s a popular choice. 

Brewer’s Yeast

Brewer’s yeast is high in nutrients and contains protein, iron, selenium, and numerous B vitamins, which help boost energy and combat the postpartum blues. It can also nourish skin and hair, making it a two-for-one solution for nursing and beauty. Brewer’s yeast can be found in powder, flakes, liquid, or tablet form. In addition, brewer’s yeast is a favorite lactation cookie recipe.

Nettle Leaf

Stinging nettle is high in minerals, particularly iron. This herb has traditionally been used to treat anemia and as a galactagogue after childbirth. Because of its high vitamin content, nettle leaf can enhance breast milk production. 

Alfalfa

Alfalfa is one of the world’s oldest and most widely produced crops. It’s high in vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, protein, and fiber while low in saturated fat. It is one of the most important dietary sources for dairy cows because it is thought to boost milk production. If you observe the safety guidelines, you can include alfalfa in your breastfeeding diet. Alfalfa sprouts can readily become infected with germs since they are grown in warm, damp surroundings that are suitable to bacterial growth. This is why sprouts are sometimes linked to foodborne illness outbreaks, such as salmonella. As a result, anyone with a weakened immune system, such as pregnant women and children, should avoid eating raw sprouts and proceed with caution. Before eating them, make sure to thoroughly wash them and consider boiling them.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle has also been used to boost breast milk flow for ages. It contains a substance known as silymarin. In a tiny trial, silymarin was found to dramatically boost breast milk production compared to a placebo. Milk thistle also aids in liver detoxification and support. It can be taken as a pill, as an extract, or as tea.