I've been reading about some herbs which can help lactation. The ones I have seen are.. Fenugreek, Blessed Thistle, and Fennel. The information went something like this..
herbs have been found to be helpful in increasing milk supply for women:
Fenugreek seed - 3 capsules (580-610 mg each) 3 times a day with food
Blessed Thistle herb - 3 capsules (325-390mg each) 3 times a day with food
These dosages were arrived at through a review of the available literature, a review of the recommendations of several herbal companies, and anecdotal evidence. Many women on the protocols have found that Fenugreek taken alone may cause stomach upset but when it is taken in combination with the Blessed Thistle the stomach upset is reduced or nullified.Women often report that they smell like maple syrup or curry while taking fenugreek.
Fenugreek has been reported to affect serum glucose levels. Therefore, diabetic mothers are advised to use this herb with caution.
Fenugreek can aggravate asthmatic symptoms. Therefore, mothers with a history of asthma are advised to use this herb with caution.
Fennel has been used for centuries to enhance breast size and to promote milk production in new mothers. The herbs history is similar to the story of fenugreek above. It is second only to Fenugreek in estrogenic compounds and can be used in tea or added to lotion and massged directly into the breasts. Fennel is also used to treat amenorrhea, angina, asthma, heartburn, high blood pressure and to increase sexual desire in women. It is rich in the phyto-nutrients that increase breast size and is a great addition to the program. Don't use fennel oil, however. In pregnant women, the oil can cause miscarriage.
Places where I found the information were Here (
http://www.bodyandfitness.com/Informati ... gement.htm) . Here (
http://www.greenbush.net/fenmorin.html) and here (
http://www.mamadearest.ca/en/info/newma ... tation.htm)
Has anybody tried using of the herbs mentioned?. It would be nice to know from someone who has actually used them to see if there were any side effects of if they did help at all or not. Thanks! -Fami