In this article Yvette examines whether or not Herbal Preparations Increase Breastmilk Supply.

The health advantages of breastfeeding for both mothers and infants are clinically proven. For babies, breastfeeding reduces the risk of obesity and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In addition, breastfeeding increases IQ, brain development and immunity to childhood illnesses.

For mothers, breastfeeding significantly reduces the likelihood of developing breast cancer. Lastly, breastfeeding supports the development of a deep emotional bond that can positively impact the emotional and psycho-social development of mother and child. Yet, despite all these benefits, encouraging women to start and continue breastfeeding remains challenging.

Using herbal preparations to increase breastmilk supply

For many women, the motivation to stop breastfeeding centres on their belief that they have insufficient milk to feed their babies adequately. Whether this perception is accurate aside, many women turn to herbal preparations to boost their supply. Midwives and lactation consultants may recommend some herbal preparations. Several manufacturers have created breastfeeding teas to combine the perceived milk building properties of multiple herbs. Some women find these preparations enormously helpful. In contrast, other women report little benefit. In the absence of scientific proof on either value or safety, the question is, do herbal preparations increase breast milk supply?

What does the research say?

Researchers recently conducted a literature review to determine whether the use of herbal preparations is beneficial in boosting breast milk supply. Researchers selected six trials to review. The researchers looked at the use of five herbal preparations:

• fenugreek
• milk thistle
• shatavari (asparagus racemosus)
• torbangun
• Japanese herbal medication

Of these trials, five demonstrated an increase in breast milk production, which would seem to recommend the use of herbal preparations. However, how participants were selected, the trial was conducted (methodologies and controls), and they gauged success varied widely in each study. In addition, the researchers identified a broad range of factors that could skew results across the six trials. These included small groups of trial participants (small sample size), a varying level of knowledge and experience of participants in breastfeeding, differing levels of instruction from professionals, and the potential for bias of some researchers and results.

Problems with the research

In addition, not all participants adhered strictly to the trial guidelines in which they were involved. Issues included some participants using supplementary (formula) feeding when instructed to exclusively breastfeed, where the measure of success was infant weight gain. Some trials gauged the amount of milk by expressing milk and measuring its volume. Breast pumps are not as effective as babies when drawing milk from breasts, so this measure might not be accurate either! These factors make it hard to truly pinpoint whether the herbal preparations were responsible for perceived increases in supply or not.

Should you use herbal Preparations to increase breastmilk supply?

While many women might choose a herbal preparation over a pharmaceutical one, herbal preparations carry the potential for risks and side effects. Furthermore, combined with the lack of conclusive evidence that they work seems to make a case against herbal preparations to increase breastmilk supply. However, the fact remains that some women do use herbal preparations and seem to succeed in building their breastmilk supply as a result. If this leads to prolonged breastfeeding, then it is undoubtedly a good thing.

Further research is required to determine whether herbal preparations increase breast milk supply more conclusively. In the meantime, the choice to use herbal preparations and whether or not they work is an individual thing. As with all such decisions, discussing whether or not to use a herbal preparation with a knowledgeable midwife, lactation consultant, or doctor can help ensure an informed decision. You can also contact a medication and lactation service (located ins most states of Australia). In addition, seeking support to address issues that might impact breastfeeding success is also recommended.

To find a lactation consultant close to you – visit LCANZ (Lactation Consultants of Australia and New Zealand).

Originally published 2020

Updated 27th June 2021