Does menthol pass through breast milk?

Understanding Menthol and Breast Milk
The question of whether menthol passes through breast milk is a pertinent one for breastfeeding mothers who may be using menthol-containing products for various reasons, such as soothing sore nipples or alleviating cold symptoms.
Menthol’s Composition and Use
Menthol, a compound derived from peppermint oil, is commonly used in topical applications and medicinal products due to its cooling and soothing properties. It is often found in ointments, creams, and even some oral medications. While menthol is generally considered safe for topical use, its effects on breastfeeding and its potential transfer into breast milk are less clear.
Research Insights
Current research indicates that menthol does not significantly accumulate in breast milk. A study highlighted the use of menthol essence for improving nipple fissures in breastfeeding women, suggesting that while menthol can be beneficial for certain conditions, its systemic absorption and subsequent transfer into breast milk are minimal. This implies that the use of menthol in topical applications is unlikely to pose a risk to nursing infants.
Moreover, the LactMed database, which provides information on drugs and lactation, notes that while menthol is present in peppermint oil, there is limited evidence to suggest that it poses a risk when used by breastfeeding mothers. This aligns with the general understanding that many substances, including certain medications and herbal products, can pass into breast milk, but menthol appears to be an exception.
Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
While menthol is not known to adversely affect breast milk or nursing infants, mothers should still exercise caution. It is advisable to use menthol-containing products sparingly and to monitor any potential reactions in their babies. Additionally, consulting with healthcare providers can provide personalized guidance based on individual circumstances.
In conclusion, while menthol is a common ingredient in various products, its passage into breast milk is minimal, making it generally safe for breastfeeding mothers when used appropriately. However, as with any substance, moderation and awareness are key to ensuring the well-being of both mother and child.

Is menthol safe during pregnancy?

There is limited data on the safety of menthol during pregnancy. Other medications with more data for safety during pregnancy may be preferred. Menthol should only be used if benefits are greater than the potential risk to the fetus. Phenol: Phenol may be found in cough drops and lozenges.

Is it safe to use Vicks vapor rub while breastfeeding?

However, camphor can cause miscarriage when swallowed. Because of this, pregnant people should wash their hands after using Vicks VapoRub to avoid accidentally swallowing the product. To avoid accidental consumption by nursing infants, this product should not be applied to the chest during lactation.

Can I use icy hot if I’m breastfeeding?

You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

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.

What does peppermint do to breastmilk?

[8,9] However, peppermint is also used to suppress milk production. [10] Menthol and 1,-cineol are excreted into breastmilk in small quantities; the excretion of other components has not been studied. Peppermint is “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) as a food by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Can I use icy hot while breastfeeding?

Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant.

Can menthol affect pregnancy?

There is limited data on the safety of menthol during pregnancy. Other medications with more data for safety during pregnancy may be preferred. Menthol should only be used if benefits are greater than the potential risk to the fetus. Phenol: Phenol may be found in cough drops and lozenges.

How to get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

Is it OK to have menthol while breastfeeding?

Sore throat sprays, lozenges or cough drops are usually considered safe. Avoid taking large amounts of cough drops containing menthol as this may decrease milk production.

Is a menthol patch safe while breastfeeding?

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.