Fenugreek: an Aid to Milk Production?
In 1945, an Egyptian researcher reported that fenugreek is a potent stimulator of breast milk production. In fact, its use was associated with increases in milk production of as much as 900%. The mechanism of action is unknown. It has been suggested that fenugreek may affect milk production because the breast is a modified sweat gland, and the herb is known to stimulate sweat production.
A recent trial worked with 1200 women who took the herb. Many of these mothers began by changing the frequency and duration of breastfeeding: In some cases the use of a fully automatic breast pump was necessary when it was determined that the infant did not sufficiently drain the breast. However, a significant number of mothers who took the herb did not need other interventions. These included mothers who were exclusively pumping for non-nursing infants and mothers who were feeding often whose babies sufficiently drained the breast.
Nearly all of the mothers who take fenugreek report an increase in milk production, as soon as 24 to 72 hours after starting to take the herb. And most importantly, most mothers have found that the herb can be discontinued once milk production is stimulated to an appropriate level. Adequate production is usually maintained as long as sufficient breast stimulation and emptying continues.
The study showed that two or three capsules of fenugreek three times a day was what worked best. However, it should be noted that the suggested dosage on the label of some brands, is one capsule three times a day. Mothers should know that taking such a small amount of fenugreek does not seem to improve milk production.
The study also used fenugreek successfully in a variety of situations including relactation, for mothers who have had breast surgery with surgical incisions around the areola, and for mothers who are exclusively pumping for non-nursing infants. It also observed some improvement in the milk production of mothers with classic bilateral insufficient glandular tissue but never enough to eliminate the need for supplementation.
Few women report adverse effects from fenugreek, although some may notice a maple-like odor to their urine and sweat. Among mothers who have used fenugreek, two or three have developed diarrhea, which quickly subsided when the dosage was either decreased or the herb was discontinued. Some asthmatic mothers felt that fenugreek aggravated their asthma symptoms, an interesting effect since fenugreek is thought to be a remedy for asthma. The study did not observe or encounter of any side effects in the infants whose mothers have taken fenugreek. The study concluded that fenugreek was a potent stimulator of breast milk production that appears to be safe for mother and baby. It is relatively easy to obtain and is inexpensive; however, mothers should be made aware of its potential to cause diarrhea. Mothers with diabetes should use caution because of the herb's tendency to lower blood glucose levels. Women with asthma should be informed of the possibility of increased asthma symptoms.
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