Whether it’s your first time raising a little one or not your first rodeo, most mamas know that breast milk is a valuable source of nutrition for babies, providing them with essential nutrients for healthy growth and development. However, most nursing mothers know the struggle of maintaining an adequate milk supply and breast milk volume. In a breastfeeding mama’s quest to enhance milk volume, she may turn to natural supplements to support low milk supply like moringa and fenugreek. But are these herbal supplements really beneficial to helping mamas produce enough milk? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the benefits and considerations of taking fenugreek and moringa to support your milk supply, and which one might be suitable for you to mature milk production. About Moringa The moringa tree, also known as the "miracle tree," is a plant native to South Asia and Africa. Using the leaves of the moringa tree or consuming moringa for milk supply has gained attention over the years as a potential natural aid for boosting breast milk volume in nursing mamas. One of the key benefits of organic moringa for breastfeeding mamas is its plant based components linked to supporting milk supply. Studies have shown that organic moringa leaves can increase levels of prolactin which can indirectly influence milk production. Prolactin is a hormone made in the pituitary gland that signals the body to produce breast milk, making moringa a potential galactagogue to increase milk supply. Because producing insufficient milk is one of the main reasons why many mamas stop breastfeeding early in their journey, some breastfeeding mothers turn to galactagogues like foods, beverages, herbal supplements, and pharmaceuticals) to try to increase milk supply. Benefits of Moringa for Milk Supply Herbal profile: Moringa is an herb found in nature with plant components that may provide medicinal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties as well as support overall well-being, including breast milk production. Potential hormonal effects: moringa contains compounds that may stimulate the production of hormones involved in milk production, such as prolactin. By increasing prolactin levels, moringa has the potential to enhance lactation and increase milk supply. Antioxidant properties: moringa is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This can help support milk production Understanding Moringa for Boosting Breast Milk Supply: When considering taking moringa, it's important to find a trusted brand that makes a high quality product. You can consult with a healthcare professional or a lactation consultant if you need more guidance. They can provide guidance based on your individual needs and help monitor your milk supply and overall well-being. Individual variations: While moringa has been traditionally used as a galactagogue, its effectiveness may vary among individuals. It's essential to remember that each person's response to herbal supplements can differ. Quality: When considering moringa supplements, it's important to determine the best quality and select reliable brands that ensure purity and safety. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a lactation consultant for guidance on reputable moringa products can be beneficial. Other factors affecting milk supply: While moringa can provide nutritional support and potentially stimulate lactation, it's crucial to address other factors that can impact milk volume, such as proper latch, frequent breastfeeding or pumping, and managing stress levels. About Fenugreek Let’s move on to talking about the potential benefits of taking fenugreek. Fenugreek is an herb that has a long history of use in traditional medicine and culinary practices. It is native to the Mediterranean region and South Asia and has gained popularity as a natural remedy to help increase milk supply in breastfeeding mothers. Fenugreek seeds, which resemble small golden-brown beans, are the most commonly used part of the plant for medicinal purposes. These seeds contain various beneficial compounds, including phytoestrogens, galactomannan fibers, and alkaloids, which are believed to contribute to their lactation-enhancing properties in human milk volume. In addition to its use in promoting milk supply, fenugreek has also been used as a flavoring agent in many culinary dishes. Does Fenugreek Smell Like Maple Syrup? One fascinating thing about fenugreek is its potential to give a maple syrup smell to certain bodily fluids, such as urine, sweat, and even breast milk. It might sound surprising, but this sweet scent is actually a well-known side effect experienced by some people who consume fenugreek. The secret behind this aroma lies in a compound called sotolone, which is naturally present in fenugreek seeds. When consumed in sufficient amounts, sotolone can be released through various bodily fluids, resulting in that sweet maple syrup smell. It's important to remember that the maple syrup smell is harmless and doesn't pose any health risks to breastfeeding mamas or their babies. However, it can be quite unexpected if you're not prepared for it. Understanding that it's a natural effect of fenugreek consumption can help put any worries or misconceptions to bed. Rest assured, this is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, it's worth noting that not all breastfeeding mothers will experience this change in odor, as each person is unique. Benefits of Fenugreek for Milk Supply When it comes to fenugreek for milk supply, fenugreek has similar benefits to moringa, as it’s believed to stimulate the production of prolactin, a hormone responsible for milk production. Positive galactagogue properties: Fenugreek contains compounds that can mimic estrogen, a hormone involved in lactation. By acting as a galactagogue, fenugreek can potentially help increase milk production and help mothers maintain an adequate milk supply. Enhanced let-down reflex: Some moms report that fenugreek has aided in their milk ejection reflex, allowing for their milk to flow more easily during breastfeeding or pumping sessions. Considerations for Using Fenugreek for Boosting Milk Supply The fenugreek seed has been used for centuries and is generally considered safe for most individuals, it's important to note that every person's response may vary. Some women report noticeable increases in milk supply after consuming fenugreek, while others may not experience significant changes. While fenugreek is known to be safe, some women may experience adverse effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort or bloating. If you decide to consume fenugreek or take fenugreek supplements in any form, it's essential to follow the recommended guidelines provided by reputable sources or healthcare professionals. Observing your baby's preferences and reactions can help you decide whether fenugreek is a suitable option for you. As with other herbal supplements, it's important to be aware of potential side effects or interactions. If you notice any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare professional for personalized advice. How to Incorporate Moringa & Fenugreek Into Your Diet Moringa and fenugreek are two natural supplements that have been used by breastfeeding mothers to support lactation and boost breastmilk supply. While both have their potential benefits, deciding whether to use moringa or fenugreek to increase milk supply is a personal choice that should be based on individual needs and preferences. Moringa can be consumed in various forms, including as a capsule, or tea. Moringa leaves are also dried and ground into a fine powder, which can be used as dietary supplements or added to various dishes. Organic moringa products are usually widely available in health food stores and online retailers, offering a convenient option for breastfeeding mothers looking to incorporate this natural supplement into their routine. Fenugreek seeds can be consumed in various forms, including whole seeds, ground powder, capsules, or made into tea. Fenugreek tea is a popular option among breastfeeding mothers, as it provides a convenient and soothing way to incorporate fenugreek into their daily routine. If you’re looking for a simple and delicious way to take moringa or fenugreek for supporting milk supply, try one (or a few) of our Milkflow drink mixes and capsules. Simply adding a Milkflow drink mix to water or taking a capsule daily can help to support your milk production Consulting with a healthcare professional or lactation consultant can also provide you with personalized guidance based on your specific situation and how best to incorporate these natural herbs in your diet. Remember that it's super important to closely monitor your milk supply and consider other factors that influence lactation, such as proper breastfeeding techniques, managing stress levels, and a balanced diet. Use the Milkflow chart below to find the best fit (and taste) for you!
