Galactagogues – Increasing supply

What is a Galactagogue?

A galactagogue is an herb or supplement that is used to help increase breastmilk production in nursing mothers. Below is a list of some of the more effective and popular ones. There are many teas and supplement pills available that combine some of these ingredients together. Be sure to research each to find what might work best for you.

I have personally tried Fenugreek, Marshmallow root, shatavari as well as some blended supplements that combined several of the herbs mentioned below (not all at the same time).

Fenugreek – Fenugreek will make you smell like maple syrup, and may cause gas in you or your baby. It is probably the most popular  galactagogue. It’s also cheep and easily found. Fenugreek is also used for lowering blood sugar, and is not recommended for use by diabetics. Fenugreek is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it can cause uterine contractions.

Goat’s Rue – Goats Rue is often included with other herbs in Nursing Teas or tincture, and is most often helpful for women who have insufficient glandular tissue.

Fennel – Fennel is often included with other herbs in Nursing Teas, supplements, or tinctures, and is also helpful in soothing upset stomachs. It can also be found as a tea.

Alfalfa –  is often included with other herbs in Nursing Teas or tincture and is high in vitamin K. Alfalfa is a rich source of vitamins E, B1, B6, A, C and K and minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, zinc, iron and potassium.

Nettle – high in nutrients, a gentle galactagogue

Blessed Thistle – helps with digestion and liver function, a gentle galactagogue

Marshmallow Root – may also help calm stomach issues, a gentle galactagogue

Shatavari – contains natural, plant-based phyto-estrogens and helps balance hormones.

Other foods that may help supply

Oatmeal – this is often reported to help milk production. Use old fashioned oats or steel cut oats. I love Bob’s Red Mill.

Brewers Yeast – this fine powder doesn’t have much flavor, I think it tastes a little like cheese. This is not the same thing as bread yeast. Provides protein and vitamins. You can mix it into smoothies or oatmeal or lactation cookies (yum!). You can also hide it in soups and sauces.

Dark Beers – may also help the mother relax, which can help increase supply

Ovaltine – contains malted milk powder, which may help supply. And it tastes pretty good.

Sports drinks – Patorade/Powerade If nursing and or pumping, you need to stay hydrated. Many women report that drinking a sports drink helps their supply as well.