How to Increase Milk Supply with Fenugreek

Nothing is more frustrating for a nursing mother than a drop in milk production. Read on to learn how to quickly increase milk supply with the herb fenugreek.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide how you would prefer to take fenugreek. It is available as a capsule, in powder or whole seed form, as a tincture, or as a tea.

2. Make sure you take the right amount:
   
   Capsules (580-610 mg.) - 2-4 capsules, 3 times per day
   
   Powder or seed - 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, 3 times per day
   
   Tincture - 1-2 mL., 3 times per day
   
   Tea - one cup, 2-3 times per day

3. Discontinue use of fenugreek after your supply is back to normal. Try to drink plenty of fluids, get adequate rest, and nurse or pump often to see if your body will be able to produce enough milk. If your supply drops again after stopping the fenugreek, this may mean you will need to continue the herb in order to maintain an adequate supply.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure that you actually have a supply problem before you begin taking fenugreek. Many new mothers who are used to feeling engorged in the beginning believe they have a supply problem when in reality their body has begun to produce just enough milk for the baby. Talk to a lactation consultant if you are unsure.
• Your sweat and urine may begin to smell like maple syrup after a few doses of this herb.
• Fenugreek is in the same family as peanuts, so do not take it if you have a peanut allergy.
• Fenugreek can cause loose stools in some women.
• Diabetics should be cautious when taking Fenugreek as it can reduce blood glucose levels.
• Fenugreek has been known to reduce blood pressure so do not take this herb if you have a history of heart disease.

Resources

• Fenugreek Supplements