Written by the ladies of the Sacred Milk program Sara Goff (IBCLC) and Austin Rees (IBCL)
Sacred Milk is based on holistic practices and keeping Milk
simple.
The use of lactogenic foods and herbs has been a part
of the holistic care of mothers during postpartum, and
throughout their Milk journey, in all cultures for millennia.
We
embrace and encourage utilizing the bounty of what mother
earth provides to nourish our bodies and our babies.
Milk
Mamas must also be aware that some foods and herbs may
impact milk. Most of the herbs listed below do not have
substantial research on their impact on milk supply, however,
many mamas have seen various degrees of effect on their
individual babe and supplies.
One mother may happily eat
peppermints daily without a noticeable decrease in supply
while another may notice a dip in supply with only occasional
ingestion.
Each woman is an individual and her body unique.
Herbs used in culinary amounts in food can normally be
enjoyed without seeing an effect on milk supply.
We
encourage tapping into your intuitive wisdom and awareness
of your body and your baby when consuming new herbs.
This
list below is simply to inform you of potential effects, not to
encourage their use or avoidance. BEFORE consuming herbs as
tinctures or frequently consumed as tea, be aware of their
potential effect on milk, your baby and any contraindications
to medications or health conditions you have.
Seek the
expertise of an herbalist and holistic IBCLC for specific
guidance.
Galactagogues & Lactogenic foods are
substances known to help a mom make milk more quickly or
milk flow faster, they encourage and support lactation.
It is
IMPORTANT to note that herbal and nutritional remedies don’t
get to the root challenges of low milk supply. Often they will not
work unless the underlying issues are addressed. In some cases
taking MORE will cause a decrease in milk supply.
Once mom
and baby are on the right track, herbs, cookies, tinctures and
teas are fabulous ways to turn the situation around quickly!
Know the root of the problem THEN use the appropriate
galactogogue for supply concerns.
Potential Facilitators (Galactogogues)
*fenugreek : alfalfa : oats : barley water : dandelion : *hops :
*blessed thistle : goats rue : milk thistle : *alfalfa : millet :
stinging nettle : seaweed : shavatari : *anise : red raspberry :
*basil : chickweed
Potential Decreasers (Anti-Galactogogues)
*peppermint : *parsley : *sage : thyme : yarrow : rosemary :
holy *basil : jasmine : mugwort : alcoholic beverages (usually
frequent drinking only) : most widely and effectively utilized
herbs for decreasing milk supply : sage : tribulus
Galactogogue’s noted with an * may not be appropriate
for self-use. Seek safety and dosage recommendation;
possible allergenic
Fenugreek : is a widely popular galactogogue and
culinary spice in East India and Asia. It has a beautiful sweet
aroma and long history as a safe holistic herbal remedy. Before
consuming fenugreek frequently or in medicinal doses
(tinctures/teas/capsules) it is important to be aware that it may
not be suitable for every mama or baby.
Note: DO NOT use fenugreek if your are PREGNANT or
pregnancy is possible as it increases estrogen and may influence your pregnancy
Note on Allergies : Fenugreek is part of the
legume family. If you are severely allergic to peanuts do not
consume fenugreek.
Hypoglycemia: If you are diabetic, hypoglycemic,
insulin resistant, have PCOS speak to your healthcare provider
and herbalist before use. Caution: If you are hypothyroid or
take medications for blood pressure caution use and seek the
advice of your healthcare provider or herbalist.
Overall, keep things simple, eat enough food, drink enough fluids, and if needed
try a nursing tea. For more serious issues get in touch with a lactation consultant and have your baby checked for a tongue tie.
