🌿Galactagogues for Breastfeeding: What Really Works to Increase Milk Supply

🤱 Why Do Mothers Turn to Breastfeeding Supplements?

If you're breastfeeding and worried about low milk supply, you're not alone. One of the first things many mothers in Berlin reach for is Stilltee — herbal nursing tea blends said to help increase supply.

Stilltee is warm, soothing, and safe to try. But when that doesn’t seem to be enough, many mothers turn to herbal breastfeeding supplements called galactagogues.

🌿 What Are Galactagogues?

Galactagogues are herbs or supplements believed to help increase breast milk production or supply. Some are based on tradition, others have limited scientific research.

But here’s the thing:

Taking galactagogues without increasing breast stimulation is like drinking protein powder without exercising — the results just won’t come.

🔄 Step 1: Increase Breast Stimulation First

Before using supplements, work with a lactation consultant to:

• Increase breast emptying (more frequent feeds or pumping)

• Improve milk transfer (latch & positioning or using the correct pump and flange size)

• Identify the root cause of your milk supply concern

Once those steps are in place, galactagogues may be part of a helpful plan.

⚠️ A Note About Dosing

There are no standard doses for galactagogues. What works for one mother might not work for another. This is why a personalized plan with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider is key. Some may not suit you due to a health condition, allergy or medications you take regularly.

🌱 Popular Galactagogues

Fenugreek (Bockshornklee)

Common uses: Supports milk production and lowers blood sugar.

How to take:

• After meals

• Avoid with other medications

• Needs a few days to show results

Caution – Side effects may include:

• Blood thinning (avoid if taking blood thinners)

• Lower blood sugar (not for Type 1 diabetes)

• Digestive discomfort

• Thyroid disruption

• Allergic reactions (related to peanuts, soy, chickpeas)

• Not for G6PD deficiency

• Strong body odor

• Avoid taking with iron supplements
  

Moringa

Note:

• Can lower blood sugar

• May interfere with thyroid function

• Increases bleeding risk

• Do not use during pregnancy
  

Fennel (Fenchel)

Thought to act like estrogen (phytoestrogens), which may encourage breast tissue development.

Cautions:

• May cause skin irritation

• One study (Zapantis, InfantRisk, 2012) suggested fennel may lower milk supply in some cases
  

Goat’s Rue (Geißraute)

Used traditionally to support milk supply and lower blood sugar.

Caution:

• May cause diarrhea

• Not officially recommended in Germany (low evidence of effectiveness)

Milk Thistle (Mariendistel)

Known for liver support and antioxidant effects.

Cautions:

• Can interfere with medication metabolism

• Side effects may include: headache, dry mouth, GI discomfort, allergic reactions

• May lower blood glucose levels

🍵 Herbal Teas Commonly Linked to Milk Production

These are often found in Stilltee blends, though not well studied:

• Melissa (Melisse)

• Chamomile (Kamille)

• Lavender (Lavendel)

• Hibiscus (Hibiskus)

• Anise (Anis)

• Nettle leaf (Brennnessel)

• Luisa / Lemon Verbena (Zitronenverbene)

☝🏼 Every woman reacts differently. Herbs may help, but they can also cause side effects, be ineffective or even reduce supply.

💡 Important Reminder

• Herbs and supplements can interact with medications or health conditions

• There is no one-size-fits-all solution

• Taking something “natural” doesn’t always mean it’s safe or effective
  

❤️ Final Words from a Lactation Consultant in Berlin

If you’re wondering how to increase milk supply naturally, I’d love to support you. Galactagogues might help, but only with the right plan and the right support.

📞 If you're concerned about low milk supply, or just unsure where to start, contact me here for a one-on-one breastfeeding consultation.

Together, we’ll figure out what your body needs — and how to support your breastfeeding journey safely and confidently.