Breastfeeding mothers are always hoping they maintain their milk supply for their little one. Whether they just want to keep it at its best or increase it due to having a low supply, there are herbal natural teas for lactation which may be a great idea. The only main concern is whether they are ‘safe’ for both mother and baby and if they actually ‘work.’
Are Teas For Lactation Safe For Mother And Baby?
Herbs are galactagogues and have been used for centuries in teas for lactation in order to help mothers maintain or increase their milk supply. The different combination of herbs helps support breast milk as well as stimulate its production. Not only that, but these herbs also promote relaxation. A relaxed mother is healthy, both for herself and for her breast milk.
Herbal teas are generally considered safe for both the mother and baby, but as with everything, there are always exceptions. Many of the herbs used in the teas for lactation have been used throughout history as a source of medication. So just like with any drug, herbs can also have side effects of their own. That is why it is best one consults their doctor prior to using teas for lactation. The doctor can provide more information according to each individual’s needs, as well as how much and how often one can drink it.
How To Start Taking Teas For Lactation
Like with other medications, it is best to start the teas for lactation in small doses. This reduces the risk of side effects. Once the body has become used to the herbs, a gradual increase can be done. Dosages though differ from person to person. A small dose may be sufficient enough for one person while a higher dose may be needed for another.
Which Herbs For Lactation Work Best?
Common herbs in lactation teas are Fenugreek, Blessed Thistle, Fennel, Stinging Nettle, Goat’s Rue, Alfalfa, Milk Thistle, Anise, Marshmallow Root, Red Raspberry Leaf, Coriander, Caraway, and Verbana. A combination of some of these herbs not only increase a mothers milk supply but also helps support relaxation and letdown. Other herbs provide a pleasant flavor in creating a tasty blend. Mothers can choose their own herbs and make the tea themselves according to their preferences (as long as the herbs are purchased from a reliable source), or purchase one of the many store-bought options. There are plenty of teas for lactation already pre-made on the market, and each brand has its own unique blend of herbs.
Teas For Lactation
Traditional Medicinals Organic Mothers Milk Tea
The Traditional Medicinals Mothers Milk Tea is licorice flavored. It contains anise, fennel, coriander, fenugreek, blessed thistle, spearmint leaf, lemongrass leaf, lemon verbana leaf, and marshmallow root. Also being organic and caffeine free, it makes this tea for lactation ideal for nursing mothers. This tea is inspired by the Traditional European Medicine combination passed down through generations by women.
Earth Mama Organics Milkmaid Nursing Tea
The Earth Mama Organic Milkmaid Tea contains fennel, fenugreek, red raspberry leaf, stinging nettle, milk thistle, orange peel, anise seed, caraway seed, and alfalfa leaf. This tea is also caffeine free. The power in this tea comes from the nettle and raspberry leaf and is enjoyed both hot or cold.
Yogi Women’s Nursing Support Tea
The Yogi Women’s Nursing Support Tea is a mixture of fennel, nettle, anise, fenugreek, chamomile, and lavender. The chamomile and lavender are great for calmness and relaxation. This tea is also organic and caffeine free.
Oat Mama Lactation Tea
The Oat Mama Lactation Tea has different flavors such as chai or blueberry pomegranate. It has a boost of herbs like fennel seed, raspberry lead, alfalfa, and nettle leaf that aids in lactation. This tea not only helps support breast milk supply but also helps the mother stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
MilkMakers Lactation Tea
MilkMakers Lactation tea is both organic and natural. The herbs used in this tea are fennel seed, nettle, and oat straw. It also contains vital minerals and vitamins in order to enrich a mothers breast milk. This tea also comes in a variety of flavors.
Bundle Organics Lactation Support Tea
The Bundle Organics Lactation Support tea comes in different flavors depending on preference. It is naturally caffeine free and organic. It includes ingredients like fenugreek, thistle, fennel, and coconut which are known to help increase a mothers breast milk supply.
Pink Stork Herbal Lactation Tea
The Pink Stork Lactation teas come in different flavors. It includes the herbs fenugreek, fennel, marshmallow root, anise, licorice, and blessed thistle. This tea helps the production and flow of mothers breast milk, as well as helping prevent tummy troubles in gassy and colicky newborns. It is also naturally caffeine free.
Secrets Of Tea Healthy Nursing
Healthy Nursing from Secrets of Tea helps enhance the quality and quantity of mothers breast milk. This herbal blend does not include fenugreek and comes in a variety of flavors. It also soothes digestive issues for both the mother and baby and is made from the best organic galactagogue ingredients.
Breastfeeding is a beautiful thing. No mother should ever go through the stress and worry of having low milk supply. Thankfully, with natural herbal teas for lactation, a mother can rest assured she is doing anything and everything she can in order to maintain her milk supply or increase it when needed. With more natural alternatives on the market, breast milk can be enhanced with a sip of one of these delicious and relaxing nursing teas in the comfort of one’s own home.
WANT TO READ MORE?
Check out this article on 7 WAYS TO MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF WHEN EXCLUSIVELY BREASTFEEDING.
Sources: Breastfeeding Tea to Increase Milk Supply, Amazon
Photo Credits: Parents.com, Amazon
