Is spearmint good for milk supply?

The Impact of Spearmint on Milk Supply
When it comes to breastfeeding, many mothers are keenly aware of how various foods and herbs can influence their milk supply. Among these, spearmint has garnered attention, particularly in contrast to its more potent cousin, peppermint. The question arises: Is spearmint good for milk supply?
Understanding Spearmint and Its Components
Spearmint, known scientifically as *Mentha spicata*, is often enjoyed in teas and as a flavoring in various products. It contains a compound called menthol, which is also present in peppermint. While peppermint has been associated with a potential decrease in milk supply due to its higher menthol content, spearmint appears to have a different profile.
Research indicates that menthol can negatively impact milk production in some breastfeeding individuals. Specifically, it has been shown that menthol may harm milk supply, leading to concerns for nursing mothers who consume peppermint or high-menthol products. However, spearmint is considered to be safer for breastfeeding mothers, as it contains lower levels of menthol compared to peppermint.
The Evidence on Spearmint’s Effects
While there is limited direct research on spearmint’s effects on milk supply, anecdotal evidence suggests that it does not have the same suppressive effects as peppermint. In fact, some sources indicate that spearmint may not adversely affect milk production at all. A 2017 study noted that spearmint extract does not produce adverse effects when consumed in moderate amounts, although the safety of higher doses during breastfeeding remains unclear.
Conclusion: A Cautious Approach
In summary, while spearmint is generally regarded as safer for breastfeeding mothers compared to peppermint, its effects on milk supply are not fully understood. Mothers should approach the consumption of spearmint with caution, particularly if they have concerns about their milk production. As always, it is advisable for nursing mothers to consult with healthcare professionals regarding dietary choices that may impact breastfeeding.

What teas help with lactation?

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.

Can I drink chai tea while breastfeeding?

Yes, a chai latte is typically safe while breastfeeding in moderation. It does contain caffeine, which can pass into breast milk (5), so limiting intake to one cup a day is generally best to avoid potential sleep disturbances in your baby.

What kind of tea dries up breast milk?

To help dry up your milk supply: Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma.

Do thin mints affect milk supply?

Or what about thin mints while breastfeeding or chestfeeding? The possibly concerning ingredient in both mint chocolate chip ice cream and thin mints, is the mint which has been known to decrease supply though it isn’t otherwise dangerous for babies who ingest the human milk.

Is spearmint tea safe during pregnancy?

Pregnancy: Spearmint and spearmint oil are commonly consumed in foods. But spearmint is possibly unsafe when taken by mouth in large amounts during pregnancy. Very large doses of spearmint tea might damage the uterus. Avoid using large amounts of spearmint during pregnancy.

Does spearmint affect fertility?

Conclusion: We concluded that spearmint has no significant toxic effect on the reproductive system, fertility and number of offspring in adult male rats at the above mentioned dose levels. However high levels of this extract may have adverse effects on male fertility.

Does spearmint affect milk supply?

Common herbs that decrease milk production:
Parsley (in large amounts) Spearmint. Thyme. Rosemary.

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.

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.

What teas should I avoid when 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.