For many that choose to breastfeed and pump, the journey may not be easy. Some new mothers may struggle with low milk supply, leading to breastfeeding difficulties and frustration for both mother and baby. While there are many ways to increase milk supply, some new moms may prefer natural remedies to medication. Fennel, a herb with a long history of medicinal use, is one such natural remedy that has been used for centuries to increase milk production in new mothers. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using fennel to increase milk supply, as well as the various ways in which it can be consumed.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a herb that belongs to the carrot family. You may have come across many other names for fennel, such as Saunf and Sweet Anise. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is now widely cultivated around the world. The plant has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to ancient times. The Greeks and Romans used fennel to treat digestive problems, while in India, it was used to promote lactation in new mothers. In traditional Indian and Chinese medicine, fennel was used to treat a variety of ailments, including poor milk production in breastfeeding mothers.

Fennel is believed to increase milk supply by stimulating the production of prolactin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in milk production. It contains phytoestrogens, plant compounds that mimic the action of estrogen in the body. These compounds are thought to stimulate milk production by increasing the sensitivity of breast tissue to prolactin.

Fennel may be a valuable tool for nursing mothers who are struggling to produce sufficient milk for their infants. One possible mechanism by which fennel works is by stimulating the production of prolactin, a hormone that plays a vital role in regulating milk production.

But the benefits of fennel don’t stop there. For many new mothers, breastfeeding can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, characterized by soreness and engorgement of the breasts. Fortunately, fennel is believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help soothe the discomfort of sore breasts and reduce engorgement.

Beyond its potential lactogenic properties, fennel has also been shown to have digestive benefits that can be especially helpful for new mothers. Constipation is a common problem for postpartum women, and fennel may help alleviate this issue by promoting healthy digestion and improving nutrient absorption. By optimizing the absorption of essential nutrients, fennel can also benefit the nursing baby, promoting healthy growth and development.

Overall, fennel is a multi-faceted herb with a range of potential benefits for new mothers. From boosting milk production and alleviating soreness to improving digestion and nutrient absorption, this versatile plant may be just the solution that many nursing mothers are looking for.

There are many ways to consume fennel, including as a tea, tincture, or in food. Fennel tea is perhaps the most popular way to consume fennel for lactation purposes. To make fennel tea, simply steep one to two teaspoons of fennel seeds in boiling water for 10-15 minutes. The resulting tea has a pleasant anise-like flavor and can be consumed hot or cold.

How to Prepare Fennel Tea for Breastfeeding?

Making fennel tea is easy. All you need is fennel seeds, water, and a teapot or tea strainer. Here’s how you can make fennel tea for breastfeeding:

1. Start by measuring out one tablespoon of fennel seeds.
2. Add the fennel seeds to a teapot or tea strainer.
3. Pour boiling water over the fennel seeds and allow them to steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea and pour into a cup.
5. You can add a teaspoon of honey to sweeten the tea if desired.
6. Drink the tea hot or cold, depending on your preference.

From a fennel dose for breastfeeding standpoint, the best way to get the most out of fennel is to drink two to three cups of fennel tea per day. However, it is always best to start low and slow and let your body adjust. As with starting any natural medications, it is best to first discuss with your primary health care professional.

While fennel is generally considered safe, there are some potential drawbacks to its use. Fennel contains volatile oils that can cause allergic reactions in some people. It can also interact with certain medications, including birth control pills and blood-thinning medications. For this reason, it is important to speak to a healthcare provider before using fennel to increase milk supply, especially if you are taking any medications or have any underlying health conditions.

In addition, while fennel has been used for centuries to increase milk supply, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. Most of the research on fennel and lactation has been conducted on animals, with few studies on humans. However, many new mothers report positive results from using fennel to increase milk production, suggesting that it may be a safe and effective natural remedy for some women.

Fennel is a traditional superfood that can help increase milk supply for new moms. It is an easy and convenient way to get the benefits of fennel without having to take supplements or pills. Enjoying a fennel tea is not only beneficial but can also be therapeutic.

It is important to consult with your doctor before taking any herbal supplement. With proper use, fennel can be a great tool to help you boost your breastfeeding journey.

Popular Traditional Herbs To Help Increase Milk Supply

There are many traditional herbs in various cultures that have been used to increase milk supply in new moms. Common traditional herbs include fenugreek, moringa, and blessed thistle. While the scientific evidence on their effectiveness is limited, these herbs have been used for centuries as galactagogues, or substances that promote lactation. Here’s a closer look at the anecdotal benefits of each herb:

Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds are rich in compounds that can stimulate milk production. They contain phytoestrogens, which mimic the hormone estrogen and can lead to an increase in milk supply. Fenugreek is also thought to stimulate the milk ducts and glands.

Moringa: Moringa is a nutrient-dense herb that is rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and vitamin C. It’s believed that these nutrients can help to increase milk supply. Moringa also contains phytoestrogens, which can stimulate milk production.

Blessed Thistle: Blessed thistle is a bitter herb that is believed to stimulate milk production. It’s thought to work by increasing prolactin levels in the body. Blessed thistle is also believed to have a calming effect on the body.

It’s important to note that while these herbs are generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. As with any herbal remedy, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider before using these herbs while breastfeeding.

Does Fennel Increase Milk Supply? Further Reading:

• Verywell Family – Using Fennel While Breastfeeding