by LCDEBBIE

Hello! Looking for input from anyone regarding the use of herbals in lactation.

Another query: In the Caribbean Islands the use of sea kelp and waterkress is used to improve lactation. Any thoughts on what is in these 2 items. Recently I used waterkress to assist induced lactation with an adopting mother and it worked well.
Yours in alternatives,
LCDebbie

would like to know more.......

Debbie,
I don't know anything about herbals..........but I would like to talk to you more about induced lactation. Hubby and I are strongly considering adopting in the future.........and have always wondered if I would be able to nurse that child.

Also, just a note.........my best friend and husband are both from Sault Ste. Marie...........

Debbie,
I used Fenugreek with my second daughter. With my first, I worked at a very flexible home health agency and was able to come home and nurse my baby whenever she needed (within reason). I started working at the hospital when my second was four months old. My supply stayed great during my stretches off, but by about the third out of a four day stretch working, it started to peter out despite pumping more, etc.
So I started taking Fenugreek. Our LC at the hospital didn't know much about it, I researched and bought it online.
I was VERY happy with the results. My milk supply once again knew no bounds! I took it for a couple of weeks and then didn't really need it any more. My schedule changed so I was only working 2 days at a time and my supply was great with that.
The ONLY negative thing I have to say about it is you have to take a lot. I think I was taking 3 caps TID but it was worth it to me. I was able to continue nursing her for 18 months
Anita

The lactation nurses where I worked used fenugreek a lot. Organic/health food markets have it, and there are lots of those in San Diego, so no problem getting it, either.

You can try ot get information from DR.LOWDOG She is THE WOMAN with herbs and breastfeeding!
Or call a La Leche League leader.
Fenugreek does work!

When I was breastfeeding my daughter, my mom made a seaweed soup to help my milk. It worked. With my son, I had some difficulty with my milk coming in and pulled out the old seaweed, and I found that once again, it helped with my milk.

two I know of......

At the midwifery clinic I work at we recommend two herbs, fenugreek and also blessed thistle. also 6 oz of imported beer can really help increase milk supply, I believe it has something to do with the yeast in the beer.

Originally Posted by Jennipherlynn

At the midwifery clinic I work at we recommend two herbs, fenugreek and also blessed thistle. also 6 oz of imported beer can really help increase milk supply, I believe it has something to do with the yeast in the beer.

Actually beer has no real effect on breastmilk supply. Hops are full of vit b which helps mom relax, along with the beer.Happy mom, happy baby.
I also have never heard of sea weed.....helping