Fenugreek for Lactation

Fenugreek is an ancient herb, which has been used for its medicinal properties, one of its many medicinal properties is fenugreek for lactation. It comes handy in treating a number of ailments as well. This herb was accorded a higher position by Hippocrates, as well as Greek and Roman physicians. Fenugreek is referred to as ‘Trigonella foenum-graecum L.’ Let us learn more about the fenugreek plant.

A Little About Fenugreek

The fenugreek plant is a herb native herb to the Mediterranean region. However, now it is widely grown in Egypt, Morocco, India and also England. It is used in Greek, Roman, and Egyptian cuisine widely. A fenugreek plant grows up to two feet in height and blooms in the summer. Fenugreek is actually the small stony seeds from a pod. The fenugreek plant is similar to a bean plant. The seeds are yellowish brown in color and are hard and angular or oblong. These seeds have a deep furrow, due to which the seed splits into two. Fenugreek is available whole and dried or in powder form as well. This powder is dull yellow in color and is made after roasting the fenugreek seeds. When fenugreek seeds are powdered, it gives off a spicy smell. Fenugreek has a powerfully aromatic and bittersweet taste. The after taste of fenugreek is bitter and similar to that of celery. More more information on how a herb can be used to cure diseases and ailments, you can refer to herbal remedies.

Fenugreek for Lactation

Scientists are unable to answer the question as to, how does fenugreek help lactation? It is probably due to hormone precursors present in fenugreek, which aid in boosting breast milk. It has been observed that milk production increases in about 24 to 72 hours after the consumption of fenugreek. It is said that milk production increases by 900% after consumption of fenugreek. At times, an automatic drain pump is required to drain out excess milk, which was not consumed by the baby. Research has established the fact that fenugreek indeed has helped majority of lactating mothers, but there also have been women, who have spoken of no effect of using fenugreek.

The other important benefit of fenugreek during breastfeeding is that, even after a woman stops taking fenugreek seeds, milk production does not reduce. It remains the same, but the mother will have to maintain the adequate milk supply by breast stimulation.

Fenugreek is approved by the FDA, therefore, it safe for consumption. Boil a cup of water and add ½ teaspoon of fenugreek to the water. Bring it to a boil and then let it seep for 15 minutes. Let the water cool down to room temperature. After the water comes to room temperature drink the water and chew the seeds. You will have to consume this fenugreek mixture twice a day, ideally once in the morning and once in the evening. There are some women who do like the taste of fenugreek, they can use fenugreek in tea as well, but the effect of using fenugreek in tea is not similar as consuming it directly. These days, fenugreek capsules are also available in the market. The dosage of these capsules varies from one brand to another. Most of the brands, however, suggest three capsules a day.

Some women also complain of maple like smell in their urine and sweat, after the consumption of fenugreek. There are some who complain that their babies urine also displays the same smell. Diarrhea can be caused by fenugreek in some women, but reducing the dosage of fenugreek or stopping the herb totally is able to cure the person off diarrhea.

Lactating women who have been administered insulin, have noted that there was a decrease in their insulin dose after they started consuming fenugreek. This is because fenugreek lowers the blood sugar level. It also has reduced asthma symptoms in asthmatic women. For more information you can also refer to herbal medicine.

Although fenugreek for lactation is a safe option, it is important that you consult with your physician before you actually start consuming it. There are chances that it can have adverse effect on some women. Therefore, it is better that you have fenugreek under medical supervision.