Does peppermint affect breast milk supply?

The Impact of Peppermint on Breast Milk Supply
As new mothers navigate the complexities of breastfeeding, many are concerned about how their diet might affect milk production. One herb that has garnered attention is peppermint. While it is widely enjoyed for its flavor and potential health benefits, there are conflicting opinions regarding its impact on breast milk supply.
Historical Perspectives and Anecdotal Evidence
Historically, the consensus among lactation experts has been somewhat ambiguous. Robert Tisserand, a noted authority on essential oils, previously stated that there was no definitive research linking peppermint oil to reduced milk supply. He expressed openness to exploring the topic further, indicating a lack of concrete evidence either way. However, anecdotal reports from breastfeeding mothers suggest that even small amounts of peppermint—found in teas, candies, or cough drops—can lead to a noticeable decrease in milk production.
Scientific Insights
The scientific community has not extensively studied peppermint’s effects on lactation. However, some sources indicate that peppermint is commonly perceived as detrimental to milk supply. This perception has led many breastfeeding mothers to avoid peppermint altogether, fearing it might hinder their ability to produce sufficient milk.
Interestingly, while peppermint is often cited as a potential milk supply reducer, other studies have highlighted its benefits in alleviating nipple pain, which can indirectly support breastfeeding duration and, consequently, milk production. This duality presents a complex picture: while peppermint may pose risks to milk supply, it could also enhance the breastfeeding experience by addressing discomfort.
Conclusion: A Cautious Approach
In conclusion, while there is no definitive scientific consensus on peppermint’s effect on breast milk supply, many breastfeeding mothers choose to err on the side of caution. The anecdotal evidence suggests that peppermint may indeed reduce milk production for some women. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding and enjoy peppermint, it may be wise to monitor your milk supply closely and consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns. As with many aspects of motherhood, individual experiences can vary widely, and what works for one mother may not work for another.

What teas should you 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.

Can I have a peppermint mocha while breastfeeding?

If you’re really craving that cup of peppermint tea or perhaps a peppermint mocha, you can enjoy it without having to worry about a dip in your milk production. If, however, supply does become an issue, it’s best to avoid peppermint and sage until your supply returns.

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.

Can peppermint lower your milk supply?

Sage, Parsley, and Peppermint
Either way, you’d likely need to ingest a large quantity of the herb for any noticeable difference in milk supply. You don’t need to avoid each of these herbs altogether, but be mindful of dishes that contain large amounts.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

What food dries up breast milk?

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

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.

Is peppermint candy safe while breastfeeding?

Cinnamon and nutmeg are also safe during breastfeeding, but peppermint should be avoided as it is known to decrease a mother’s milk supply. Typically you’d have to ingest a LOT of candy canes or peppermint tea in order to affect milk supply, but some women do notice a drop in production even with moderate use.

Will thin mints hurt my milk supply?

That night I noticed I was pumping only about half my normal volume, then I realized that thin mints of course have peppermint in them. Peppermint is known to decrease milk supply and that is exactly what happened. Now I’m into my second night after my cookie binge and my supply is still tanked.

How can I dry up my milk supply ASAP?

One of the main things a person can do to dry up breast milk is avoid nursing or pumping. The supply of breast milk increases with demand. Avoiding nursing or pumping, even if a person feels uncomfortable, tells the body to produce less milk.