Is goats rue good for breastfeeding?

Understanding Goat’s Rue and Its Role in Breastfeeding
Goat’s rue, scientifically known as *Galega officinalis*, has garnered attention as a potential natural remedy for breastfeeding mothers seeking to enhance their milk supply. This herb has a long history of use as a galactagogue—substances believed to promote lactation. While many mothers have reported positive experiences with goat’s rue, the scientific backing for its efficacy remains a topic of discussion.
Historical and Traditional Use
Historically, goat’s rue has been utilized in various cultures as a means to support breastfeeding. It is often recommended by lactation consultants, particularly for mothers who may not have experienced an increase in breast size during pregnancy or those looking to relactate or adopt a child. The herb is thought to stimulate mammary tissue growth, which is essential for milk production.
Survey Insights and Anecdotal Evidence
A survey involving 238 mothers indicated that a significant portion—67%—felt an increase in milk production after using goat’s rue, with 88% reporting an overall improvement in their breastfeeding experience. These findings suggest that many mothers find goat’s rue beneficial, although they are largely based on personal testimonies rather than rigorous scientific studies.
Scientific Perspective
From a scientific standpoint, goat’s rue contains guanidine derivatives, including galegine, which may influence metabolic processes such as blood sugar levels. However, it is important to note that there are no robust clinical trials that conclusively support the use of goat’s rue as a galactagogue. The existing studies are often described as outdated or poorly designed, leaving a gap in high-quality evidence to firmly establish its effectiveness.
Practical Considerations
For mothers considering goat’s rue, it is available in various forms, including capsules and liquid extracts. Some products are designed to minimize unpleasant taste, which can be a deterrent for some users. Additionally, goat’s rue is often suggested as an alternative to fenugreek, another popular lactation supplement.
Conclusion
In summary, goat’s rue appears to be a promising option for breastfeeding mothers looking to boost their milk supply, supported by anecdotal evidence and some survey data. However, the lack of strong scientific validation means that mothers should approach its use with caution and ideally consult healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement. As with any herbal remedy, individual responses can vary, and what works for one mother may not work for another.

Does goat milk increase breast milk supply?

Results: Breast milk production after giving goat milk in the intervention group (Mean= 121.5; SD= 12.81) was higher than control group (Mean= 97.06; SD= 13.59), and it was statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusion: Goat milk is effective to increase quantity of breast milk in lactating mothers.

Is Rue safe for babies?

Safety / Precautions
Never use internally in pregnancy or lactation. Rue’s active principles are toxic to the embryo or fetus. Some people have employed this herb to end unplanned pregnancies, but this is a very dangerous practice, which may cause death to the mother as well as the baby.

How does blessed thistle increase milk supply?

It is thought that blessed thistle increases prolactin levels, which in turn increases breast milk production. Blessed thistle is thought to be a galactagogue which is a food, herb, or medication that increases the production of breast milk. The use of blessed thistle is not limited to breastfeeding.

What is the best herb for lactation?

Some of the most commonly used herbs for lactation support include Moringa, Torbangun, fenugreek, blessed thistle, shatavari, fennel, and goat’s rue.

What hormones are in goat’s rue?

The presence of phytoestrogens in goat’s rue plant mimics the action of estrogen that binds to the estrogen receptors and increases prolactin secretion, which is mainly responsible for the secretion of breast milk in lactating women.

What is goat rue good for?

In combination with other herbs, goat’s rue is used to stimulate the adrenal gland and pancreas; to protect the liver; for digestion problems; and to start the flow of breast milk.

What are the side effects of goat’s rue?

Bleeding conditions: Goat’s rue might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. In theory, goat’s rue might make bleeding disorders worse. Surgery: Goat’s rue might affect blood sugar levels. There is concern that it might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery.

Is goat rue safe during pregnancy?

Pregnancy/Lactation
Avoid use. Information regarding safety and efficacy in pregnancy is lacking. Silymarin in combination with galega enhances milk production in breast-feeding mothers.

Is goat’s rue good for breastfeeding?

Potent galactagogue: Goat’s Rue is one of the most effective herbs for increasing breast milk production in lactating mothers. Alternative to fenugreek: A good option for mothers who are sensitive to blessed thistle, fenugreek, or other lactation blends.

How quickly does goat’s rue work?

Goat’s Rue is a concentrated liquid extract that gives you breastfeeding support in an easily absorbed liquid capsule. Please allow two weeks of consistent use to see results. Only the best for you: YES: Non-GMO Project Verified, Kosher Certified by Kof-K, vegan, and made with organic herbs.