Some say breast milk is one of the most perfect substances a new baby can consume and is uniquely suited to their nutritional needs. It is a live substance with unparalleled immunological and anti-inflammatory properties that protect against a host of illnesses and diseases for both mothers and children. The importance of healthy, bountiful and consistent lactation is important not only for the baby but the mother as well. The herbs we include in our lactation herbal tea provides the following benefits:
 
Alfalfa Leaf is a phytoestrogen meaning it can mimic estrogen and attach to receptor sites in our body. Estrogen is the most critical hormone for breast milk production and supply. It is considered a superfood because it has a high vitamin and mineral content which will support lactation.
Blessed Thistle is commonly used as an herbal galactagogue. A galactagogue is a food, herb, or medication that increases the flow of breast milk, usually by increasing prolactin levels. Blessed Thistle is believed to increase the hormones prolactin, which boosts the milk supply and oxytocin which enables the release of milk from the nipples.
 
Fennel Seed is believed to be a galactagogue as well and its reputation for enhancing breast milk is related to its phytoestrogens, which as mentioned above is similar to the estrogen hormone that is naturally formed by the human body.
 
Fenugreek Seed is a well-known galactagogue, contains phytoestrogen and has been used by lactating mothers to boost breast milk supply for hundreds of years. Fenugreek contains several flavonoids and vitamins which are beneficial for lactating mothers and a compound called diosgenin which also increases milk flow in lactating women.
 
Hops are a moderate galactagogue and a powerful phytoestrogen and moderate nervine. Nervines are herbs that act upon the nervous system that are sedating or calming which may help mother’s relax enough for easy lactation.
 
Milk Thistle Seed is a galactagogue and as mentioned, signals the body to increase milk output. This is particularly true when paired with fenugreek as there is evidence that they work best together. Also known as Saint Mary’s Thistle and Our Lady’s thistle, this herb is a plant that has white veins running through its leaves that some believe symbolize breast milk.
 
Nettle Leaf is not only a galactagogue but is also believed to support lactation by providing essential nutrients. It is one of the most nutritious of the spring greens, containing high levels of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, potassium, folic acid, B vitamins, vitamin K, and essential amino acids. This herb works well with other galactagogues, such as fenugreek, fennel, and blessed thistle.
Raspberry Leaf has nutrient-dense properties and because of the huge demand on a woman’s resources – sometimes breast milk is in short supply. So raspberry leaf can help boost the nutrients that may be needed for ample supply. It is also considered a galactagogue because like some of the other herbs it stimulates the release of prolactin.
 
Shatavari Root is also a well-known galactagogue and research shows that Shatavari can increase breast milk supply by increasing the production of corticoids and prolactin, which improve the quality and the amount of breast milk produced. Shatavari also stimulates the secretion of steroid hormones that improve milk production and also increases breast weight. It is also an adaptogen providing antioxidant properties that help improve the overall health of the nursing mother.
 
Use daily for 2 to 3 weeks at a time and then take a 1 week break.
 
 
 
 
 
** Use cautiously if allergic to other members of the daisy family, including ragweed, aster, and chrysanthemum, Gastrointestinal disorders, Have autoimmune disorders, Have diabetes, Prone to blood clots, Taking MAO inhibitor antidepressants.
 
**Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing, allergic to any of the ingredients, or taking any medications without first consulting your physician.
 
** These statements have not been FDA approved. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.