Does anise pass through breast milk?

Does Anise Pass Through Breast Milk?
Anise, scientifically known as *Pimpinella anisum*, is a herb commonly used for its flavor and potential health benefits. One of the concerns for breastfeeding mothers is whether substances they consume, such as anise, can pass into breast milk and affect their infants.
Composition and Effects of Anise
Anise seeds contain several compounds, most notably anethole, which is a phytoestrogen. This compound is responsible for the characteristic flavor of anise and is believed to have various effects on the body, including potential galactagogue properties, which may help increase milk production in lactating mothers.
Transmission to Breast Milk
Research indicates that when a mother consumes anise, anethole can indeed be excreted into breast milk. This transmission may impart a distinct odor to the milk, which some studies have noted. The presence of anethole in breast milk suggests that while moderate consumption of anise is generally considered safe, it can influence the sensory characteristics of the milk that the infant consumes.
Safety and Recommendations
The consensus among health professionals is that anise is “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for breastfeeding mothers when consumed in moderation. However, it is essential for mothers to be mindful of their overall diet and consult healthcare providers regarding any concerns about specific foods or herbs. While anise may help alleviate colic symptoms in some infants, its effects can vary, and not all babies may respond positively.
In summary, anise does pass through breast milk, primarily in the form of anethole, which can alter the milk’s odor. While moderate consumption is deemed safe, mothers should always consider their individual circumstances and seek guidance from healthcare professionals when incorporating new foods into their diets during breastfeeding.

Is anise safe during breastfeeding?

You can use anise seed to make a tea which you would want to drink a few times a day or there are capsules, too. It is important to note that you should only use anise seed (sometimes called aniseed). It is not the same as star anise. Star anise is not safe for breastfeeding.

Can herbs pass through breastmilk?

Like conventional medicines, certain herbal and traditional medicines, can transfer into your breast milk. Some herbal and traditional medicines may be harmful to your baby, while others can affect your breast milk production.

What spices affect breast milk?

There’s no evidence to suggest that spicy foods should be avoided for your baby’s sake, either during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Does anise affect pregnancy?

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Anise is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn’t enough reliable information to know if anise is safe to use in larger amounts as medicine while pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts. Children: Anise is commonly consumed in foods.

How long does spice stay in breastmilk?

Through extensive mass spectrometric analyses, the team has shown that already one hour after consumption of a standardized curry dish, piperine is detectable in breast milk for several hours.

What herbs and spices decrease milk supply?

Other herbs that can decrease milk supply: Peppermint (Mentha piperita), Spearmint, Parsley (Petroselinum crispum), Chickweed, Black Walnut, stinging nettles (not nettle – that increases milk supply), Yarrow, Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), Lemon Balm, Oregano, Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor), Sorrel (Rumex acetosa).

What can pass into breast milk?

Serious Illnesses and Breastfeeding

• COVID-19. A parent who tests positive for COVID-19 can breastfeed their infant.
• HIV.
• Hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis C.
• Tuberculosis.
• Other infections.
• Cancer.
• More information.

What flavors pass through breast milk?

Eight of ten studies provide evidence that flavor volatiles found in alcohol, anise, caraway, carrots, eucalyptus, garlic, and mint originating from the maternal diet during lactation, transfer and flavor breast milk.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

How long does it take for flavors to get into breastmilk?

These studies have shown that flavor compounds from caraway, anise, mint, garlic, carrots, and alcohol are detectable in breast milk through chemical and sensory analyses. These were perceptible as early as 30 minutes after alcohol ingestion and 2-3 hours after ingestion of other foods.