Breastfeeding Herbal
by MoonMagic
Breastfeeding is one of the experiences I treasure most about motherhood. I recently (June 2001) weaned my fourth shortly before her third birthday. I have nursed through three pregnancies!
I really enjoy using herbs while breastfeeding, because for the most part they don't have the side effects of conventional drugs, because they come in much milder forms. Any herbs that pass on to my baby are in such small doses as not to cause harm. Usually I'll take an herb to help milk flow when my supply is reduced due to stress. Or if I have a cold, the baby may have the healing herb or supplement too and can benefit from the healing qualities in my milk!
Marshmallow - Supposed to make the milk sweeter and more palatable to baby. My milk is pretty sweet (so says my husband), so I don't know if this one is really worth the trouble! UPDATE - Makes the milk RICHER, with a higher fat content!
Echinacea - Use this herb judiciously (in small qualities) when illnesses are going around to boost your immune system. Use this herb religiously when you are ill yourself! Capsules or tablets usually do the trick, but homeopathics are much quicker if you can locate the remedy. Not many companies make homeopathic echinacea, so if you find it, stock up. This remedy is also good for breast infections.
Phytolacca Decandra - A real mouthful! This homeopathic remedy is especially helpful with breast infections, mastitis and cracked nipples.
Pulsatilla - Another homeopathic remedy that is helpful during breast infections, especially those accompanied by respiratory illness such as colds, flu and bronchitis.
Calendula Cream/Ointment - If you do have cracked nipples, abcess or other breast injury (including bites from those first little toothies) this homeopathic or herbal application will help heal your nipples quickly. Be sure apply right after nursing, and wipe off as much as possible before the next feeding.
Fennel - May increase the flow of milk. But, avoid the fennel oil - only seeds and fruit!
Blessed Thistle - WILL increase the milk supply!
Garlic - Increases a baby's appetite and encourages longer nursing sessions
Olive Leaf Extract - Have you contracted an illness and been told you must wean your baby and go on strong antibiotics? Read this for revolutionary information about a non-toxic natural antibiotic!
Herbs to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Aloe Vera
Basil
Black Cohosh
Bladderwrack
Borage - Though, it has been used to greatly increase milk supply when nursing twins... Use judiciously if at all!
Bugleweed
Cascara Sagrada
Coltsfoot
Comfrey - External use ok.
Elecampane
Ephedra
Foxglove
Imitation Vanilla - some of these from Mexico can contain some potentially dangerous herbal derivatives!
Licorice
Nightshade
Parsley - Will dry up milk supply.
Sage - Also dry up milk supply!
Senna
Wormwood
More information on breastfeeding and natural remedies - thrush! Thrush is that lovely cottage cheese stuff in your baby's mouth that sometimes bleeds and makes her really fussy. It's a yeast infection, and if it's in her mouth, it could be on your breast causing - you got it - sore nipples/breasts, cracked nipples, strange bumpy red rash on nipples. You can try applying plain yogurt to it, or swabbing with vinegar. Go to your local health food store and get acidophilus yogurt, and swab on all affected areas - mouth, baby bottom & privates, and nipples. Works like a charm!
DISCLAIMER - The herbs discussed on this page have been successfully used by the author. Please consult your health care practitioner before trying any supplement.
Recommended reading - If you'd like more information on breastfeeding, I do recommend these books.
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding - The classic from La Leche League! This is the best breastfeeding book there is!
Breastfeeding and Natural Child Spacing: How Ecological
Breastfeeding Spaces Babies by Sheila Kippley - While not a book about herbs, it is a scientifically written book regarding ecological breastfeeding to space your children. Used by the Couple to Couple League.
The Working Woman's Guide to Breastfeeding by Anne Price, Nancy Dane - Another favorite of mine, this book has a forward written by Lynn Redgrave. Unfortunately, it is out of print, but Amazon will try to locate it for you!
Breastfeeding Success for Working Mothers by Marilyn Grams - Written by a mother of two that breastfed her children while completing her residency for a medical degree! Truly an inspiration for any mother wishing to continue breastfeeding while pursuing a challenging career outside of the home!
Eat Well, Lose Weight While Breastfeeding by Eileen Behan - You know all that weight your doctor promised you'd lose, but you didn't? This book tells you why and how to do it! Reminds me of Weight Watchers - very sensible, nutritious eating plan.
Breastfeeding Your Baby by Sheila Kitzinger - One of the foremost authorities on childbirth writes a delightfully illustrated book on breastfeeding. The pictures alone are worth checking this one out.
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