Can I use peppermint to dry up breast milk?

Understanding the Impact of Peppermint on Breast Milk Supply
The question of whether peppermint can effectively dry up breast milk is a nuanced one, steeped in both traditional beliefs and emerging research. While many have heard anecdotal claims about peppermint’s ability to reduce milk supply, the scientific evidence remains inconclusive.
Traditional Uses and Anecdotal Evidence
Historically, peppermint (Mentha x piperita) has been associated with various health benefits, including digestive relief and soothing headaches. In the context of breastfeeding, it has been suggested that peppermint may help decrease milk supply. Some sources indicate that peppermint oil, when applied topically, might have a more pronounced effect than peppermint tea, which is considered a much weaker form of the herb.
However, the effectiveness of peppermint in this regard is not universally accepted. A poll conducted by the Tisserand Institute revealed that there is a lack of definitive research supporting the claim that peppermint can reliably reduce milk supply. This sentiment is echoed by other experts who caution against assuming that peppermint will have a significant impact on lactation.
Scientific Insights and Cautions
The Lactation Database (LactMed) notes that while peppermint oil has been traditionally used to decrease milk supply, the exact mechanisms and safe dosages remain unclear. Some studies suggest that large quantities of peppermint tea would be necessary to observe any effect, indicating that casual consumption—such as enjoying a peppermint latte—should not pose a risk to breastfeeding mothers.
Moreover, the application of peppermint oil directly to the breasts has been mentioned as a method that could potentially reduce milk supply, but again, the lack of comprehensive studies means that this practice should be approached with caution.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
In summary, while peppermint is often cited in discussions about reducing breast milk supply, the evidence is not robust enough to make definitive claims. If a breastfeeding mother is considering using peppermint for this purpose, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to weigh the potential benefits and risks. Ultimately, moderation appears to be key; occasional use of peppermint in food or tea is unlikely to have a significant impact on milk supply, while more concentrated forms, like essential oils, should be used judiciously.

Does peppermint dry up breast milk?

Peppermint and sage have properties that decrease milk supply. It’s not the only effective route to decrease supply but supplementing with other methods eating some can be really helpful.

Is peppermint candy safe while breastfeeding?

“You can’t have candy canes, or it will kill your supply!” There are no published studies linking peppermint/menthol with loss of breastmilk supply. While there is anecdotal evidence that high doses of peppermint essential oils may affect nursing, no scientific research has been done.

Does mint dry breast milk?

Other herbs that have the potential to dry up breast milk include: peppermint.

Is mint the same as peppermint?

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a hybrid species of mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint. Indigenous to Europe and the Middle East, the plant is now widely spread and cultivated in many regions of the world. It is occasionally found in the wild with its parent species.

What to apply to stop breastfeeding?

Several factors will affect how long it takes for your milk to dry up, including your baby’s age and how much milk your body is making.

1. 7 ways to dry your breast milk supply quickly.
2. Cold turkey.
3. Herbs.
4. Cabbage.
5. Birth control.
6. Sudafed.
7. Vitamin B.
8. Other drugs.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

How do I dry up breast milk asap?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

1. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
2. Put cold packs on your breasts.
3. Use cold cabbage leaves (wash fresh cabbage and refrigerate; pull off one leaf at a time and lay them over your breasts; keep the leaves on your skin until they get soft).

Will thin mints decrease my milk supply?

The possibly concerning ingredient in both mint chocolate chip ice cream and thin mints, is the mint which has been known to decrease supply though it isn’t otherwise dangerous for babies who ingest the human milk.

How to stop lactation naturally?

To utilize herbs for lactation suppression:

1. Drink sage tea made with 1 to 3 grams of dried sage leaves.
2. Appy jasmine flowers to your breasts.
3. Take chaste berry orally.
4. Eat parsley.
5. Use peppermint oil topically only if you’ve completely stopped breastfeeding — it can be toxic to your baby.

How long does engorgement last when drying up?

Breast engorgement often occurs around three to four days after giving birth and can last about 48 hours. If your breasts do become engorged, they may feel hard, tight and painful. We have included some tips below to help minimise any discomfort you may experience when drying up your milk supply.