Tea for Lactation- Breastfeeding Mothers Dilemma

Lactation is referred to as the secretion of milk from pregnant mothers to nourish their babies. Lactating mothers are also seen as Breastfeeding or nursing mothers. Breastfeeding newborns scientifically has shown an increase in immunity in growing infants.

However, delays in childbirth, medical conditions, malnutrition, etc. contribute to decreased breast milk production or even no milk production. I have seen friends use Breast pumps to get the supply needed to feed their newborn, with less or no luck. 

I have had breastfeeding experience twice, with the birth of my two beautiful daughters. The new mother’s most significant concern is, “Am I producing enough milk” Is my baby getting enough? Am I starving my baby? I went through all these emotions, knowing that babies’ milk intake is remarkably low right after birth as they have a tiny stomach.

But how can a new mother be convinced? I tried all the home remedies and herbal methods to increase my milk supply naturally. Some of these included incorporating methi(Fenugreek) in my diet, and certain types of tea that I had read assist in milk production.

Today, In my article, I will share my experience with tea and what tea can at least psychologically make you relaxed that “drinking tea is helping,” it may be a placebo effect, but I made my peace. Well! There isn’t much medicinal evidence behind the effectiveness of certain herbs or natural elements that increase the supply of mothers’ milk. Still, I swear by certain herbs and tea that have seemingly increased my milk supply.

So, how do you feel when I say, “What if improving your milk supply was as simple as steeping a cup of tea?

It is the most natural thing that can be incorporated in everyday routine for such a big reward.

Lactation teas can combine ingredients known to have properties to boost milk supply, elements known for their relaxing properties – like chamomile or lavender – which can also increase milk supply. As mentioned above, I have tried adding Fenugreek seeds, Fennel seeds, coriander, and anise seeds to blend my own lactation tea.

In Ayurveda, once again, I draw my inspiration from age-old Indian ingredients used naturally for healing and cure.

Now how do we find this magical tea? There are two ways to resolve this,

• Buy Lactation Tea from a reputed seller or
• Make/Prepare your own Lactation Tea with readily available ingredients in the Kitchen Pantry.

These days lactation tea is readily obtainable at most stores. However, picking the brand manufactured by a reputable company and consuming tea with authentic ingredients requires research.

It is essential to know the ingredients’ source, better if it is from reliable farms, or if the brands use inhouse ingredients. Allergen disclaimers are a must. Manufacturing and expiry dates are also important.

My best tool to assist in decision making is online reviews and customer care.

My mantra, “create your own” if in doubt. After all, it’s for a newborn. It is challenging to take any chances. Ready-made lactation teas are convenient for purchase, but it can be tough to find the correct blend to cater to individual needs. There may be ingredients more effective for one mother’s milk supply, but others may need to avoid ingredients due to allergies.

Creating your own blend is more natural due to the readily available ingredient at home or online shops.

My homemade lactation always included two main ingredients, fenugreek, and fennel. I would purchase whole seeds and grind them in my blender into powdered form to add in my tea. Homemade lactation tea allows you to combine ingredients that work best for you as per taste and allergies. Some other ingredients commonly used as an addition to enhance the flavor are orange peel, lavender, honey, or chamomile.

There is no medical evidence for increasing milk supply in new mothers. The best odds, to go natural and use ingredients that could be more effective but will have no adverse consequence. 

My recommendation would be to inspire and motivate struggling mothers not to give up. Continue nursing, drink your favorite blend of tea, relax, and enjoy your motherhood.

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