What Chinese herbs should you avoid while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Risks of Chinese Herbs While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a critical period for both mother and child, and what a mother consumes can significantly impact her milk supply and the health of her baby. While many mothers may turn to herbal remedies for various ailments, it’s essential to be cautious, especially with Chinese herbs, as some can pose risks during lactation.
Key Herbs to Avoid
1. Da Huang (Rhubarb Root): This herb is particularly concerning as it can enter breast milk. It is known for its laxative properties and can potentially lead to gastrointestinal issues in infants. Therefore, nursing mothers are advised to avoid Da Huang to ensure their baby’s safety.
2. Fan Xie Ye (Senna Leaf): Similar to Da Huang, Senna Leaf is another herb that should be avoided. It contains compounds that can cause adverse effects such as difficulty in breathing and low body temperature in infants.
3. Huang Qin (Chinese Skullcap): This herb is known for its anti-inflammatory properties but contains alkaloids that may lead to negative side effects for both mother and child, including a loss of appetite.
4. Chao Mai Ya (Barley Sprouts Malt): This herb is also recommended to be avoided during breastfeeding due to its potential effects on the mother and infant.
5. Sage and Strong Peppermint: While not exclusively Chinese herbs, these common herbs can also affect milk supply. High consumption of sage or strong peppermint products may lead to a decrease in breast milk production, which is a concern for nursing mothers.
The Importance of Caution
The consumption of herbs during breastfeeding is a nuanced topic. Many herbs lack comprehensive research regarding their safety and effectiveness in lactating women. As such, mothers should be vigilant about what they ingest. The potential for herbs to enter breast milk means that even commonly used remedies can have unintended consequences for infants.
Conclusion
In summary, while herbal remedies can offer benefits, nursing mothers should exercise caution with certain Chinese herbs. Avoiding Da Huang, Fan Xie Ye, Huang Qin, Chao Mai Ya, and being mindful of sage and peppermint can help ensure the health and safety of both mother and child. Always consult with a healthcare provider before introducing any new herbs into your diet during breastfeeding to make informed decisions that prioritize your baby’s well-being.

What Chinese herbs stop lactation?

Herbs for Weaning
Mai Ya（麦芽）and Xiao Yao San（逍遥散）can help new mothers to stop breastfeeding gradually. Sometimes, just a single herb like Mai Ya is effective. You can take 60-120gms of Mai Ya and add 4 bowls of water, bring to a boil and simmer for another 20minutes. Drink it like a tea daily and continue for 3-5 days.

What herbal teas decrease milk supply?

Herbs that may decrease milk supply

• Black Walnut.
• Chickweed.
• Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum)
• Lemon Balm.
• Oregano.
• Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
• Peppermint (Mentha piperita)/Menthol.

Is fenugreek safe while breastfeeding?

Remember the study with 25 breastfeeding moms ? The good news is that no adverse effects were recorded. And fenugreek is on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) GRAS list (it’s “generally recognized as safe”).

What herbs cause lactation?

Fenugreek. Traditionally, fenugreek is used to increase milk supply. The transfer of fenugreek into breast milk is unknown and unusual side effects such as allergy, colic, abdominal discomfort and diarrhoea have been reported in babies. Also, there is the potential for fenugreek to interact with other medicines.

Can you take Chinese herbs while breastfeeding?

Researchers in Taiwan have found a new reason for consumers to be wary of certain herbal remedies: some herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine contain lead, which mothers can pass to their infants through breast milk.

What blocks lactation?

Skipping feedings or not feeding as often as usual, or. Pressure against the milk ducts. A diaper bag strap or car seat belt pressing across your chest can cause it. So can wearing a bra that is too tight.

Why is fenugreek bad for breastfeeding?

Some women have reported side effects from Fenugreek, such as diarrhoea, gas and heartburn and urine and sweat that smells like maple syrup – that smell can show up in baby’s urine too. If mum’s digestive system is upset, then this can cause similar symptoms in the baby.

Are there any herbs you shouldn’t take while breastfeeding?

Herbs to avoid while breastfeeding

• Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)
• Sage (Salvia officinalis)
• Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Yarrow

What teas are unsafe for 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.

Is dong quai safe while breastfeeding?

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
DO NOT use dong quai during pregnancy. It may cause the uterus to contract and raise the risk of miscarriage. Nursing mothers should not take dong quai because no one knows if it is safe when you are breastfeeding.