Mother's milk tea works by utilizing a blend of herbs traditionally known to support lactation, primarily through their galactagogue properties. This means the tea is designed to help increase a mother's breast milk supply.
Key Ingredients and Their Actions
The effectiveness of mother's milk tea comes from the combined action of its herbal ingredients. These herbs have been used for centuries to assist breastfeeding mothers:
| Ingredient | Traditional Use as Galactagogue |
|---|---|
| Fenugreek | The main milk-boosting ingredient, it is widely known for increasing milk production. |
| Fennel | Another galactagogue, traditionally used to enhance milk flow. |
| Anise | Similar to fennel, it's used to support lactation. |
| Coriander | Believed to have properties that can help with milk supply. |
| Blessed Thistle | Used to improve lactation and digestion in nursing mothers. |
How They Work Together
- The blend of these herbs is thought to work synergistically, meaning their combined effect is greater than what each herb could achieve on its own.
- While the exact mechanism isn't fully understood, it's believed that these herbs may affect hormone levels related to milk production (prolactin) and the milk-ejection reflex (oxytocin).
- The tea is consumed warm, which may also contribute to a sense of relaxation and well-being, which can aid in milk letdown.
Practical Considerations
- It is important to remember that mother's milk tea is generally considered a supplement and may not work the same for every woman.
- Proper latch and frequent breastfeeding or pumping are the most important factors in establishing and maintaining a good milk supply.
- It is always wise to consult with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant before using any herbal supplement, particularly if you have any existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
