Lactation tea comprises a combination of herbal ingredients intended for consumption as tea, typically multiple times daily, during the postpartum period. It is marketed as a supplement to enhance breast milk supply.
The efficacy of lactation tea in increasing milk production remains uncertain, as scientific evidence on this matter is inconclusive and further research is warranted. However, numerous anecdotal accounts from women suggest a positive correlation between lactation tea consumption and increased milk supply.
Even if the herbal blends in these teas do not directly stimulate milk production, the act of consuming additional fluids several times a day promotes hydration, which is crucial for optimal milk production.
Furthermore, prioritizing self-care, such as indulging in activities that promote relaxation and release beneficial hormones, may contribute to milk production. Therefore, there may indeed be merit in incorporating lactation tea into one’s routine.
Which herbs are used?
Lactation teas commonly contain a variety of herbs such as fenugreek, blessed thistle, fennel, stinging nettle, goat’s rue, moringa, and milk thistle.
- Fenugreek: known for its maple syrup-like taste, is believed to enhance milk production, although further research is needed. It should be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to induce uterine contractions and concerns regarding its estrogen-like effects, which may pose risks for women with hormone-sensitive cancers.
- Blessed thistle: often used for digestive issues and included in lactation teas, lacks substantial scientific evidence regarding its effectiveness in increasing breast milk production.
- Fennel: while not extensively researched, shows promise in boosting milk volume according to limited studies, though more research is warranted.
- Stinging nettle: rich in nutrients and antioxidants, has anecdotal evidence suggesting its role in lactation support, but its safety during pregnancy and scientific validation require further investigation.
- Goat’s rue: recognized for its potential benefits to liver, adrenal gland, and digestion, is believed to aid lactation, yet additional research is necessary to confirm its milk-producing properties.
- Moringa: renowned for its nutritional content and health benefits, particularly its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, requires more human studies to substantiate its effects on lactation.
- Milk thistle: esteemed for its purported benefits to the liver, bones, and brain, lacks sufficient scientific trials to validate its efficacy in enhancing lactation, and pregnant women are generally cautioned against its use due to insufficient safety data.
Sage, notably absent from lactation teas, is traditionally known for its potential to decrease milk supply and is often recommended during the weaning process.
Read Also: Best Flavored Green Tea and Everything you Should Know
Is it safe?
It is crucial to acknowledge that while certain effects of herbs and herbal products are understood, extensive research on many aspects of herbs and their blends is still lacking, particularly concerning pregnancy and breastfeeding.
As such, consulting with a healthcare professional before consuming herbal-based products is essential, and it is advisable to obtain herbal blends from trusted sources.
Certain herbs may pose risks when consumed during breastfeeding, underscoring the importance of seeking guidance from a doctor or lactation consultant for the latest information on safe and unsafe herbs for breastfeeding mothers before incorporating any herbal blends into their routine.
How is it used?
While adhering to the particular guidelines provided with your lactation tea is advisable, the brewing process for lactation tea typically mirrors that of other teas: hot water is used to steep the herbs, which are then consumed as a beverage. Lactation tea, like most teas, can be prepared either one cup at a time or in larger batches for gradual consumption.
It is often permissible to sweeten lactation tea, serve it over ice, or incorporate other flavorings according to personal preference. Generally, a daily intake of 1 to 3 cups is recommended, although it is important to adhere to the specific recommendations provided for your particular type of tea.
Teas to try
Lactation tea is readily available in natural foods stores and online retailers, with several popular brands offering various options:
- Traditional Medicinals: Their Organic Mother’s Milk Tea is sourced from ethical trading partnerships, certified organic, kosher, and caffeine-free. While it’s non-GMO verified, it does have a distinct licorice taste that may not suit everyone.
- Pink Stork: This woman-owned company offers mint, vanilla, and a unique strawberry passion fruit postpartum recovery tea. Their lactation teas are GMO-free, gluten-free, and made without wheat, sugar, dairy, animal products, or soy. The tea sachets are plant-based and biodegradable, with key herbs like fenugreek, nettles, and milk thistle.
- UpSpring Milk Flow: Known for its chocolate and berry flavored powdered drink mixes containing fenugreek and blessed thistle. These mixes are all-natural, non-GMO, but may contain dairy and soy. They can be mixed with milk, added to smoothies, or combined with water or juice depending on the flavor.
- Earth Mama Organics: Their Milkmaid Tea comes in eco-friendly packaging, USDA certified organic, non-GMO verified, and certified kosher.
- Milkmakers: Offering certified organic, caffeine-free teas with unique flavors like coconut, lemon, and chai.
- Oat Mama: Provides tea blends with organic herbs that are fenugreek- and caffeine-free, boasting zero calories.
- Herb Lore: The Moringa Blend loose leaf tea is caffeine-free, non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, and made in the United States. It utilizes moringa instead of fenugreek, offering an alternative to the strong licorice-like taste associated with fenugreek.
Are there other ways to increase supply?
If tea isn’t your preferred method or if you’re not achieving the desired results, there are various other approaches to consider for increasing your milk supply. Some popular alternatives include:
- Lactation Cookies and Bars: These often contain ingredients like oats, baker’s yeast, wheat germ, and flaxseed, which are known to support milk production.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spending extra time in close contact with your baby not only fosters a sense of security but also encourages the release of hormones that promote milk production.
- Avoiding Certain Factors: Steer clear of medications, tight-fitting bras, and smoking, as they can have adverse effects on milk production.
- Hydration: Maintaining proper hydration is essential for both your overall health and milk production, so be sure to drink plenty of fluids.
- Massage and Rest: Treat yourself to a massage and try to get extra sleep whenever possible. Rest and relaxation can help boost the hormones necessary for milk production, although they may be challenging to prioritize with a newborn.
- Frequent Feeding or Pumping: Breasts operate on a supply and demand principle; the more milk you remove and the more frequently you do so, the more milk your body will produce in response to perceived demand. Regular feeding or pumping sessions can help stimulate milk production.
Conclusion
Incorporating lactation nursing tea into your breastfeeding routine can be a supportive measure for milk production, though it’s important to use it safely and effectively. Proper usage involves brewing the tea according to package instructions, typically with hot water and steeping the herbs. The frequency of consumption, flavor preferences, and any accompanying sweeteners or additives can vary based on personal preference and specific tea instructions.
However, it’s essential to remember that while lactation tea may offer potential benefits, consulting with healthcare professionals for guidance on safe herbal usage during breastfeeding is crucial. By following recommended guidelines and exploring various methods to support milk supply, mothers can make informed decisions to nurture both their own well-being and that of their nursing babies.
