Does fennel tea help breast milk supply?

The Role of Fennel Tea in Breast Milk Supply
Fennel tea, derived from the seeds of the fennel plant (Foeniculum vulgare), has been a traditional remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues. However, its potential role as a galactagogue—substances believed to promote breast milk production—has garnered attention among breastfeeding mothers.
Historical Use and Composition
Fennel has been utilized for centuries in various cultures to support lactation. The seeds contain anethole, a compound classified as a phytoestrogen, which mimics estrogen in the body. This property is thought to contribute to fennel’s reputation as a natural enhancer of breast milk supply. Additionally, fennel seeds are rich in other beneficial compounds such as fenchone and estragole, which may also play a role in promoting lactation.
Scientific Insights and Anecdotal Evidence
While anecdotal evidence supports the use of fennel tea for increasing milk production, scientific studies provide a more nuanced view. Research indicates that fennel can aid digestion, which is beneficial for new mothers who may experience digestive discomfort postpartum. Some studies suggest that consuming fennel tea may help mothers produce more milk, although the exact mechanisms remain unclear.
A study highlighted in the Shiraz E-Medical Journal examined the effects of herbal tea containing fennel on breastfeeding mothers and their infants. The findings suggested that such herbal teas could positively influence breast milk sufficiency and infant growth parameters. However, it is essential to note that while fennel tea may support lactation, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid potential side effects.
Practical Recommendations
For mothers looking to incorporate fennel tea into their routine, it is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts. Drinking fennel tea between meals can not only aid digestion but may also contribute to an increase in milk production. Other methods of consuming fennel, such as chewing raw seeds or using fennel in cooking, can also be effective.
Conclusion
In summary, fennel tea appears to be a promising option for mothers seeking to enhance their breast milk supply. While historical and anecdotal evidence supports its use, scientific research is still evolving. As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare professionals before making significant changes to their diet. This ensures that they can safely enjoy the potential benefits of fennel while maintaining their health and that of their infants.

What teas should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Some types of tea can affect breastmilk production and cause side effects in the baby. Teas that should be avoided include lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, kava andillicium verum. They should be avoided whenever possible, or consumed only under the supervision of a doctor.

How much fennel tea to increase milk supply?

Fennel for breastfeeding
To prepare fennel tea, The Nursing Mother’s Herbal recommends combining 1-3 teaspoons of freshly crushed seeds with 8 ounces of boiling water, covering, and steeping for 10-20 minutes. It can be drunk up to 5-6 times per day.

What herb dries up milk?

Consume herbs and teas

• Sage: Many anecdotal sources recommend using sage teas to reduce or eliminate breast milk supply.
• Jasmine: Jasmine may lower levels of prolactin, a hormone that helps produce breast milk.
• Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil may reduce milk supply when a person applies it directly to the breasts.

What should I drink to increase breast milk supply?

Water. Plain water tops the list because not getting enough of it can directly reduce your milk supply. Breast milk is almost 90% water, so you need additional fluids to keep up your supply.

How can I increase my milk supply in 30 minutes?

Hands-on pumping to increase expressed milk. If your baby is not breastfeeding directly at all, or you can’t yet pump enough milk for her, a technique called ‘hands-on pumping’ can be useful. It has been shown to increase the amount of milk mums can express in a session. The whole process takes around 25 to 30 minutes.

Can fennel increase breast milk?

1) Fennel (Saunf) seeds
Fennel seeds can boost breast milk really well. It has been used for centuries as a galactagogue. Fennel is known to have properties similar to that of estrogen (the female sex hormone) and is used to increase the supply of breast milk.

Who should not drink fennel tea?

However, most studies on fennel have largely been conducted on animals and may not apply to humans. The herb is generally safe to consume and drink, but can cause allergic reactions and is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding people.

How do I increase my milk supply ASAP?

Breastfeeding frequently—especially in the first hours, days, and weeks—is the main way to increase your milk supply. Your body will make milk to meet your baby’s demand.

What teas promote breast milk?

Some of the common herbs found in lactation teas are fenugreek, blessed thistle, fennel, stinging nettle, goat’s rue, moringa, and milk thistle. Fenugreek is an herb with a taste similar to maple syrup.

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.