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What teas dry up breast milk?

Understanding the Role of Herbal Teas in Drying Up Breast Milk
For mothers looking to reduce or stop their breast milk supply, certain herbal teas have been noted for their potential effectiveness. Among these, sage tea stands out as a prominent option. This herbal remedy has been traditionally used to help decrease milk production, largely due to its natural estrogen-like properties.
The Science Behind Sage Tea
Sage, particularly in its dried form, is often consumed as a tea to aid in lactation suppression. Research suggests that sage contains compounds that may mimic estrogen, which can play a role in reducing breast milk supply. Mothers have reported varying degrees of success with sage tea, with some finding it beneficial in their efforts to dry up milk production .
To prepare sage tea, it is recommended to use about 1 to 3 grams of dried sage leaves, steeped in hot water. This method allows the active compounds in sage to infuse into the water, making it easier for the body to absorb them.
Other Herbal Options
While sage is the most commonly mentioned herb for this purpose, other herbal teas may also contribute to reducing milk supply, although they are less frequently discussed. The effectiveness of these alternatives can vary widely among individuals, and scientific backing is often limited.
It’s important to note that while herbal remedies can be helpful, they are not universally effective and should be approached with caution. Many herbal supplements, including those used for lactation suppression, are not regulated by the FDA, which raises concerns about their safety and efficacy.
Considerations and Recommendations
When considering the use of herbal teas to dry up breast milk, it is crucial for mothers to consult with healthcare professionals. This ensures that any approach taken is safe and appropriate for their specific circumstances. Additionally, while some mothers may find relief through herbal teas, others may experience discomfort or other side effects, making professional guidance essential.
In summary, sage tea is a well-known herbal option for mothers seeking to reduce their breast milk supply, supported by anecdotal evidence and some scientific rationale. However, as with any herbal remedy, individual experiences may vary, and professional advice is recommended to navigate this process safely.

How can I stop breast milk naturally?

To stop making milk you will need to limit how much you remove from your breasts. This will send a message to your body to make less milk. It may be more comfortable for you to suppress your milk supply gradually. Your hormone levels will reduce and your breasts will return to ‘normal’ more slowly.

Does peppermint tea affect breastfeeding?

Peppermint and spearmint can adversely affect milk supply. Drinking an occasional cup of peppermint tea should not be a problem. You’d have to drink very large amounts daily (think quarts!) to decrease your supply. Altoids and other candies made from peppermint oil are a different story.

What to drink to reduce breast milk?

Herbs. Sage may help with weaning or oversupply issues. However, there are no studies that examine sage’s specific effect on excess milk production. Not much is known about the safety of using sage if your infant consumes your breastmilk after you’ve consumed sage.

Does peppermint tea stop lactation?

Peppermint contains compounds that have a drying effect on the body, including the mammary glands. It is believed that these compounds may interfere with the production of prolactin, which can lead to a decrease in milk production. Avoid consuming peppermint tea, mints, or any other products that contain peppermint.

What is the best drink to hydrate for breastfeeding?

Water is an excellent drink while breastfeeding. Milk is also very good — it provides much-needed calcium, protein, and other nutrients. Fruit juices without added flavoring, sugar, and colors are healthy choices for staying hydrated while breastfeeding. Avoid drinks with caffeine.

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.

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.

How do I get rid of breast milk 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.

What dries up breast milk?

Key takeaways: Birth control methods with estrogen, cold medications with pseudoephedrine, and the fertility medication clomiphene can all dry up your breast milk supply. Some people have suggested that diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may affect breast milk supply, too.

What vitamin dries up breast milk?

PIP: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) is contained in most prenatal and multivitamin preparations. Available research states that pyridoxine blocks lactation and inhibits the secretion of breast milk in nursing mothers by suppressing the normally elevated prolactin hormone levels encountered during puerperium.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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