Breast milk is the best food for babies. A total of at least 400 nutrients can be found on breast milk, these will help babies fight disease and increase their immune system. Exclusively breastfeeding a baby for 6 months will improve their cognitive development that might increase their chance growing up intelligently. Mother and baby bond is also increased when breastfeeding is practiced.
Decrease milk production is one of the reasons why mothers tend to stop breastfeeding. Now, here are some herbs that will help mothers enhance their breast milk production.
1. Raspberry Tea
Raspberry tea increases the production estrogen in the body. Estrogen is the one responsible for the milk production of a woman who just gave birth. It also strengthens the uterus muscles that decrease the pain after childbirth and while breastfeeding.
2. Vitex
According to Health Guidance, vitex helps to balance and produce hormones that are vital to breast milk production. This herb is believed to help stimulate lactation.
3. Alfalfa
When taken in moderation, it is safe to consume alfalfa for it does not enter the breast milk and is surely safe for babies. It increases milk production but must be stopped a few weeks before giving birth to avoid over-production of breast milk as posted in About Health. Increase consumption may also lead the baby experiencing diarrhea.
4. Blessed Thistle
This herb is usually taken in conjunction with fenugreek. It helps mothers make more milk for their babies. It is usually taken as a tea. It tastes bitter so it is advised to take it together with other dry herbs to improve its taste.
5. Fenugreek
Fenugreek is the strongest and one of the best herbs that increase milk production. Generally, after a day or two, mothers who started taking this herb already notice a change in their milk production. You will know if you are taking a correct dosage if you sweat smells like a maple syrup.