Ayurvedic Remedies for Increasing Breast Milk – Herbs to Boost Lactation

Nursing a newborn comes with its own challenges. One of them is an insufficient supply of breast milk. Several mothers find themselves struggling to breastfeed their babies because their bodies aren’t producing enough milk. Have you found yourself thinking if you seek other ways of satiating your baby’s hunger or enhancing lactation instead? It is an established fact that breastfeeding is not only good for the infant, but it is also highly beneficial for the mother. Therefore, we recommend you try out various natural ways of improving lactation. If you wish to know about it in detail, this article may prove to be fruitful. Here, we shall be talking about various Ayurveda remedies that you may use to increase your breast milk supply.

What Are the Common Reasons for Low Milk Supply in Breastfeeding Mothers?

There can be various reasons that may reduce or lower the production of breast milk in nursing mothers. Following are some of the common reasons that may affect lactation:

• If you have had breast surgery or you are taking medication that hampers the milk supply.
• If you are not breastfeeding your baby on a regular basis.
• If you started breastfeeding your baby late.
• If you suffer from medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, hypothyroidism, etc.
• If your baby was a premature or preterm baby.
• Stress, anxiety, and postpartum depression hamper breast milk production.

All these reasons may sometimes cause hindrance in producing enough milk for the baby. However, there are natural/ayurvedic ways to boost lactation.

Ayurvedic Remedies to Boost Breast Milk Supply

Looking for ayurvedic medicines to increase breast milk? These ayurvedic/natural remedies are safe for mothers to try to improve the production of breast milk:

1. Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds are great for increasing the milk supply in nursing mothers. It has phytoestrogens, similar to estrogen, which is a hormone that also helps in producing more milk.

How to Use 

You can use fennel seeds to make tea by infusing them in hot water for a few minutes. You can add honey for sweetness (optional). You may take this tea a couple of times a day. If you are not very enthusiastic about tea, you may chew a spoonful of roasted seeds a few times in a day.

2. Alfalfa

Alfalfa is a great herb for breastfeeding. It is rich in nutrients and is generally safe for nursing mothers when used in moderate amounts.

How to Use

Alfalfa can be consumed as a supplement in tablet form or by adding dried alfalfa leaves to tea. You may also add fresh alfalfa sprouts to salads or sandwiches.

3. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are one of the best herbs for breastfeeding mothers to increase milk production. It also contains diosgenin and phytoestrogen. These seeds are also loaded with galactagogue, which makes them great for the mothers who wish to enhance their breast milk supply.

How to Use 

You may take a teaspoon full of fenugreek seeds and boil them in water. Strain the seeds. You may add a teaspoonful of honey and a pinch of turmeric to this to enhance the taste. Drink this tea at least two to three times a day. Mix fenugreek sprouts with salad or veggies as well.

4. Milk Thistle

This herb is great for removing toxins from the body and works as a great tonic for the liver. Apart from this, this flowering plant has estrogen which helps to improve lactation.

How to Use 

You may take milk thistle in the form of capsules (2 to 3 capsules a day) or make tea by adding 1/2 teaspoon of milk thistle in a cup of boiling water and letting it steep for 20 minutes.

5. Shatavari

This Ayurvedic herb has been in use to overcome lactation problems in women. This herb has galactagogue properties that help increase the production of prolactin and corticoids, which help produce breast milk, which in turn improve lactation and the quality of breast milk too.

How to Use

You may take this herb by mixing it in water, or you may also buy Shatavari herbal supplements for increasing breast milk supply. 

6. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a fragrant herb that enriches the flavours of many culinary dishes. However, for a long time, many breastfeeding mothers who suffer from insufficient milk supply have been using this herb to increase their milk flow. It is also said to enhance the flavour of breast milk.

How to Use 

Lactating mothers may consume cinnamon by mixing a pinch of cinnamon powder in warm water, half a teaspoon of honey or by adding it to milk. You may take cinnamon for a month or two to see the difference in your breast milk supply.

7. Cumin Seeds

Cumin seeds are widely used in Indian cooking, and these fragrant seeds are also considered an effective remedy for curing low breast milk supply in nursing mothers. These seeds are also loaded with iron, which is helpful in giving the much-needed energy to a nursing mother.

How to Use 

You may mix a teaspoonful of cumin seeds with some sugar and have this with warm milk before going to bed at night. Season dal, vegetables, salads, or curries with roasted cumin seed powder every day.

8. Garlic

This effective ayurvedic herb is beneficial in increasing the secretion of breast milk. It is also said to enhance the flavour of breast milk if a breastfeeding mother consumes it on a regular basis.

How to Use

Garlic can be used in any form in your day to day cooking or you can even eat 2-3 raw cloves of garlic every day.

9. Goat’s Rue

This herb belongs to the same plant group as fenugreek. It helps in building the mammary glands and aids the production of breast milk. However, the dried form of this herb is beneficial because the green herb is toxic and may have harmful effects on your health.

How to Use 

This herb can be used in the form of capsules.

10. Ginger

Apart from adding flavour to various foods and beverages, ginger is also used for its health benefits. One of the best health benefits that you may achieve after consuming this herb is enhancing your breast milk supply. Ginger has galactagogue properties that can help stimulate the production of breast milk in nursing mothers.

How to Use 

You may use fresh ginger to spice up your regular tea or in your food preparations. Or simply add dried ginger powder in food, tea, etc.

11. Anise

This herb has estrogenic properties; it contains anethole, which is a phytoestrogen. which helps unblocked clogged milk ducts and increasing breast milk supply.  

How to Use

You may make tea by infusing a few anise seeds in hot water. Add sugar or honey for taste. You may safely consume two to three cups in a day.

12. Moringa Leaves

Moringa leaves are highly nutritious and are known as a great herb to increase milk supply. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium, which are essential for milk production.

How to Use

You can make moringa tea by boiling a handful of fresh or dried moringa leaves in water. Drink this tea once or twice a day. Moringa powder can also be added to smoothies, soups, or meals.

13. Dill Seeds

Dill seeds, also known as “sowa” in India, are beneficial for lactating mothers as they help stimulate breast milk production and also aid digestion.

How to Use

Make a tea by boiling a teaspoon of dill seeds in water, strain, and drink it once or twice a day. Alternatively, you can roast dill seeds and sprinkle them over your meals or chew a small amount after meals.

14. Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Tulsi is a common Ayurvedic herb known to help increase breast milk supply while reducing stress and enhancing immunity in nursing mothers.

How to Use

You can add a few fresh tulsi leaves to boiling water and steep for a few minutes to make tulsi tea. Drink this once or twice a day. Tulsi leaves can also be chewed fresh for maximum benefit.

15. Carom Seeds (Ajwain)

Carom seeds are helpful for digestion and are also known to promote milk production in lactating mothers. They have a soothing effect and are often recommended post-pregnancy for recovery.

How to Use

Add a teaspoon of carom seeds to a cup of boiling water, steep for a few minutes, and drink it once or twice daily. You may also add carom seeds to soups or other dishes.

The availability of these ayurvedic/natural herbs may make you pick some of them and begin consuming them right away. However, it’s not as simple because you must consume what is healthy for your baby. Additionally, your body may not react the way it used to before after consuming the same ingredients. But you need not worry. Take these precautionary measures to ensure you gain the most health benefits from these ayurvedic herbs.

Precautions to Take Before Using Breastfeeding Herbs

Though herbs are extremely safe to use, some women may be allergic to some of them. Therefore, you should exercise caution before consuming any herb to cure the problem of low milk supply. Here are some precautions that you may adopt:

• Make sure you consult your lactation consultant before including any herb in your regular diet.
• Ensure that you procure herbal supplements from a reputed brand only.
• Sometimes, herbs may cause toxicity. Talk to your lactation consultant or doctor before taking them.
• In case you are pregnant, taking herbs without consulting your doctor may lead to fatal complications.
• Avoid the herbs you are allergic to.

FAQs

1. Can Ayurvedic remedies to boost breast milk supply have any side effects?

Most Ayurvedic remedies and Ayurvedic powder to increase breast milk are safe when used in moderation; however, some herbs may cause mild side effects, especially if consumed in large quantities. For instance, fenugreek may lead to digestive discomfort, and milk thistle might cause mild nausea in some women. It’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider before starting any herbal remedy, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or allergies.

2. How long does it take for Ayurvedic remedies to show results in increasing breast milk supply?

The time it takes for Ayurvedic remedies to boost milk production varies depending on the individual and the specific herb. Generally, mothers may notice an improvement in milk supply within a few days to a couple of weeks of consistent use. Regular intake along with a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and rest, can help optimise results.

3. Are these Ayurvedic herbs safe to consume during the entire breastfeeding period?

Most Ayurvedic herbs like fennel, cumin, and ginger are considered safe for long-term use during breastfeeding. However, some herbs, such as fenugreek and anise, may need to be used with caution for extended periods. It’s best to cycle the herbs or take them under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner to avoid any potential issues.

4. Can I take multiple Ayurvedic remedies together to increase breast milk supply?

Yes, many Ayurvedic herbs can be combined, as they often complement each other. For instance, you can combine fenugreek, fennel, and cumin seeds in a tea for enhanced lactation benefits. However, combining too many herbs at once may sometimes cause digestive discomfort, so it’s advisable to start with small amounts and adjust as needed.

In conclusion, Ayurvedic remedies offer a natural and holistic approach to enhancing breast milk production. With herbs like fennel, fenugreek, and Shatavari, breastfeeding mothers can find relief from low milk supply and support their lactation journey. However, it is essential to use these remedies mindfully and in consultation with a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness. Whether you opt for herbal teas, powders, or capsules, incorporating ayurvedic medicine for lactation can be a valuable addition to your breastfeeding routine. Remember, consistency, a balanced diet, and plenty of rest are key to achieving the best results.

References/Resources:

1. Jyotsna. T, Sameet. M; An ayurvedic and contemporary overview of Lactation insufficiency and its cure: a conceptual Approach; World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research; https://wjpr.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/article_issue/1590840248.pdf

2. Nath. A, Sudhakar. N, Byadagi. S, M.B. B; Haridradi Gana Kwatha in the management of Stanya Kshaya w.S.R to hypogalactia – a clinical study (International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research); Research Gate; https://www.researchgate.net/publication/347681589_HARIDRADI_GANA_KWATHA_IN_THE_MANAGEMENT_OF_STANYA_KSHAYA_WSR_TO_HYPOGALACTIA_-_A_CLINICAL_STUDY; October 2020

3. Milk Thistle; National Library of Medicine; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30000830/

4. Fenugreek; National Institutes of Health; https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/fenugreek

5. Foong. S, Tan. M, Foong. W, Marasco. L, et al.; Oral galactagogues (natural therapies or drugs) for increasing breast milk production in mothers of non‐hospitalised term infants; Cochrane Library; https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD011505.pub2/full; May 2020

6. Patel. V, Prakasam. A, Patel. C; Effect of Dill Seed Tea on Lactation Among Postnatal Mothers Admitted in Tertiary Care Hospital (Journal of Natural Remedies); ResearchGate; https://www.researchgate.net/publication/373620761_Effect_of_Dill_Seed_Tea_on_Lactation_Among_Postnatal_Mothers_Admitted_in_Tertiary_Care_Hospital; August 2023

7. How can I use fenugreek to increase my breast milk supply?; UT Southwestern Medical Center; https://utswmed.org/medblog/fenugreek-breast-milk-supply/

Also Read:

Best Foods to Increase Breast Milk
Consuming Brewer’s Yeast for Lactation
Lactation Cookies – Benefits and Recipes
Consuming Garcinia Cambogia While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding Supplements to Increase Milk Supply

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