Galactagogues and Their Benefits During Lactation

Introduction:

The word galactagogues are derived from the Greek word "galact" meaning milk, and "ogogue" meaning leading to or promoting. Therefore, galactagogues include any food items, herbs, and even prescription medications.

Breastfeeding is widely accepted for promoting health benefits for both the mother and infant. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Association, exclusive breastfeeding should be encouraged for up to six months of age for all mothers, with ongoing breastfeeding for two years or until the mother and infant desire.

Breast milk is considered the best source of nutrition for newborns. There is no known substitute for breast milk despite various research in making formula milk. Breastfeeding is crucial for the growth and development of infants. It fulfills the growing nutritional needs of the infant and creates an emotional dependency of the newborn on the mother. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to develop a smooth bond between the mother and the newborn for establishing prolonged breastfeeding. Maintaining a close association with the newborn can help to promote breastfeeding. Research indicates that lactation insufficiency which is also referred to as low breast milk supply is the most common reason for early cessation of breastfeeding.

What Are the Factors Responsible for Low Milk Supply?

Many factors are responsible for lactation insufficiency and could affect the mother's ability to produce milk production. Some commonly known elements are:

• Irregular hormone levels.

• Insufficient mammary tissue.

• Improper milk removal from the breast.

• Delayed childbearing.

• High rates of cesarean section.

• Stressful labor.

• Obesity.

• Smoking.

• Lactation mastitis.

• Certain medications, like oral contraceptives containing estrogen, cause a decrease in milk supply.

Some other causes are previous breast history surgery, premature birth, and pregnancy-induced blood pressure, which are known to affect breast milk formation. These factors are considered physiological barriers to the development of lactation.

How Do Herbal Galactagogues Help Breastfeeding?

Many breastfeeding mothers worry about secreting enough breast milk that fulfill the growing needs of the infant. Some non-pharmacological methods are commonly known to improve breast milk secretion, including improving a baby's latch, fully emptying the breast, and breast massage is enough to help promote a breast milk supply. However, if a mother needs more help, she can use galactagogues, teas, supplements, and any other food items that are known to support breast milk production. Many herbs and foods like fenugreek, blessed thistle, fennel, alfalfa, stinging nettle, goat's rue, milk thistle, and moringa have been used traditionally to increase breast milk secretion. The most popular items that are known for milk-making properties include:

1. Fenugreek: It is one of the most commonly used galactagogues. The recommended daily dose for a lactating mother is 3.5 to 6 grams. However, it is important to take fenugreek seeds only after consultation with your lactation specialist. Some mothers reported allergic reactions to fenugreek seeds.

2. Blessed Thistle: This plant has been known for its medicinal benefits for hundreds of years as it is known to promote breast milk supply. Blessed thistle in combination with fenugreek seeds has tremendous benefits. It is supplied in a capsule or tea form and is recommended three times per day.

3. Alfalfa: It is a type of tea that has a mild effect on promoting breast milk supply which is often used in combination with fenugreek. It is supplied in pill, tea, or other food form. Alfalfa sprouts have a nutty flavor and are known to have numerous health benefits. Alfalfa leaves can be consumed in the form of a tablet or as a tea.

4. Goat’s Rue: It is a popular galactagogue that is often taken in combination with fenugreek seeds or some other herbs. It is considered toxic and should not be taken as a fresh format. It is consumed as dry leaves for tea or as capsules.

5. Brewers Yeast: It is a galactagogue that has few side effects. However, it should not be taken if a mother has a recurrent yeast problem. It is rich in vitamin B, minerals, iron, and amino acids. The recommended dose is three to five capsules per day.

6. Fennel Seeds: They can also be consumed in small amounts to promote breast milk supply in a lactating mother.

7. Red raspberry leaf.

8. Flax seeds.

9. Nettle leaf or capsules.

10. Milk tea.

All these herbs are good for promoting lactation. In addition, these herbal medicines can be taken as a supplement while breastfeeding. Still, you need to consult your doctor or lactation consultant before taking any supplements to increase the breast milk supply, especially when you are allergic or undertaking other prescription medications.

What Are Galactagogue Foods With Lactogenic Properties?

Some foods are known to have lactogenic properties.

These include:

• Garlic: Studies have shown that if a mother eats a lot of garlic, it gives a nice taste to the breast milk which stimulates the baby's attachment to the mother’s breast which ultimately promotes breast milk supply.

• Ginger: It should not be taken along with any other medicines.

• Carrot seeds.

• Oats.

• Green papaya.

• Raw nuts.

• Flaxseed and sesame oils.

What Is Pharmaceutical Galactogues?

Pharmaceutical Galactagogues are medications that stimulate milk production in mothers. Commonly used Galactogues are Domperidone and Metoclopramide. Usage of pharmaceuticals Galactogues must be under the guidance of the physician.

Which Are the Most Preferred Galactagogues?

The choice between pharmaceutical and herbal galactagogues depends on individual preferences, health conditions, and discussions with a healthcare provider. Pharmaceuticals may have more extensive research backing their efficacy, but some prefer herbal options due to perceived naturalness. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

What Is the American Pregnancy Association Recommendation?

The American Association of Pregnancy recommends Fairhaven Health’s products. It is because these breastfeeding supplements were developed in collaboration with obstetrics, gynecologists, and lactation Consultants. Fairhaven Health’s products are natural. It is effective and known to fulfill the optimal nutritional supplementation needs of a breastfeeding woman.

Conclusion:

Usually, all women produce enough milk to meet the nutritional needs of the growing infant. Still, some women suffer from insufficient breast milk secretion. As a result, almost all women experience various problems during their early breastfeeding phase. Proper breastfeeding develops with time and practice. Sometimes the difficulties are resolved with practice; other times, they require lactation consultants' support. Women with insufficient milk production who cannot respond to lactation counseling may use herbal and pharmaceutical galactagogues in consultation with a lactation specialist.