A galactagogue (or galactogogue) is any substance that increases the production of breast milk in nursing mothers. While the production of breast milk is a natural process that follows after delivering a baby, many new mothers face lactation issues. Sometimes, their body isn’t able to produce enough milk to keep up with a baby’s growing needs. In such situations, certain herbs, supplements or pharmaceutical galactagogues can be helpful.
Prolactin is a hormone released by the pituitary gland that stimulates the production of breast milk in women. Substances that act as galactagogues work by increasing the prolactin levels in the body thereby inducing the mammary glands to produce more milk. Natural galactagogues which increase the production of breast milk are:
- Fenugreek
- Fennel
- Milk thistle
- Goat’s Rue
- Shatavari
A galactagogue will be most effective in its action, only when combined with increased breast feeding and removal of milk from the mother’s breasts. Fenugreek, milk thistle and fennel are also known to relieve digestive problems.
Read More:
All You Need-to-Know About Breastfeeding
