How To Use Fenugreek To Increase Breast Milk Production?

Breast milk production works in a "demand and supply" basis. The mother's body produces breast milk according to the requirement of the baby. Therefore, as the baby sucks and drains the breasts, more milk is produced. Most women produce enough milk for their babies. However, for others, establishing milk supply is quite tricky and maintaining the adequate milk supply was incredibly hard. Doctors, lactation experts, and healthcare providers recommend a healthy diet and some latching techniques to handle this situation.

The elders in the family may also suggest different herbs to enhance the production of the breast milk. One of such lactation aids suggested by our grandmothers is Fenugreek. Is fenugreek really effective in breast production? Does it have any side effects on the lactating mother or the baby? Read on.

Can Fenugreek Really Increase A Mom's Milk Supply?

Nearly all of the mothers who unable to meet the baby's requirement, when taking the fenugreek, report that they experienced a noticeable hike in their milk production, that too (more often than not) within 24 to 72 hours after starting to take the herb. Another interesting fact is that most mothers report that they could discontinue the intake of the herb once the milk production reached the optimum level. Adequate production is usually maintained as long as adequate breast stimulation and draining out of the milk continues.

How Does The Fenugreek Increase The Breast Milk?

Fenugreek acts as a galactagogue, a substance that promotes lactation. Fenugreek contains some plant chemicals that are similar to female sex hormone, estrogen. This hormone is found to stimulate sweat glands. After all, the breast is a modified sweat gland.

What Is The Dosage And How Long Does It Take For Fenugreek To Increase Milk Supply?

Fenugreek capsules are available at almost every food and health store. The capsules typically contain either 580 or 610 mg. A bottle comes with 100 capsules. The prescribed dosage of fenugreek for new mothers is three capsules three times a day. You can even take the fenugreek seeds if you choose. One teaspoon of fenugreek seeds will be equal to three capsules. Women who have taken fenugreek in aforementioned dose is reported an increased milk supply 1-3 days after taking it. As already mentioned, once you have reached a point at which you have enough milk, you can even discontinue taking the pills. It has, however, been observed by healthcare professionals and doctors that fenugreek does not boost milk production when both the breasts are not adequately well-drained. Also, fenugreek dosages below 3500 mg cannot reap the wanted results.

How To Use Fenugreek To Increase Breast Milk Production?

Other than capsules, there are several ways to use fenugreek to increase the breast milk production. Fenugreek can be consumed in different forms. Pinning down 4 different ways in which you can boost your breast milk production through different forms of fenugreek.

1. Fenugreek tea:

   Fenugreek seeds are soaked in water overnight. This water is then boiled for several minutes and then strained to remove seeds. You can also seep one tsp of fenugreek seeds in a cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. If you prefer fenugreek tea instead of taking capsules, drink two to three cups a day

2. Fenugreek seed sprouts:

   Sprouted fenugreek seeds are the easiest and tastiest way to use it to enhance breast milk production. Soak needed quantity of fenugreek seeds in a glass of clean water. Keep them aside in a dark place with a little water partially covering the seeds. You should keep rinsing them with clean water. Within 5 days the sprout will be ready to add to your salads

3. Fenugreek powder:

   You can consume 1 tsp of fenugreek powder three times per day mixed with water or juice

4. Fenugreek leaves:

   Fenugreek leaves, from the fenugreek plant, can be used in cooking and very commonly used in Indian cuisine. It will give added benefits of minerals like potassium, calcium, and iron

Can Every Lactating Women Use Fenugreek To Enhance Breast Milk?

Even though it is relatively safe to use fenugreek, some women cannot use it.

• Women with diabetes cannot use this herb as it dangerously drops the blood sugar level
• A woman with a peanut allergy is not supposed to take this herb because this herb belongs to the peanut family
• Women with asthma should be cautious while using this herb because it tends to increase asthma symptoms

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