Which Natural Teas are Right For You?
As a new or expecting mother, you may be looking for ways to improve your milk production while ensuring proper nutrition for both you and your baby. In our previous post, we talked about 8 healthy foods for breastfeeding moms, but in this blog post we will be looking at natural teas and the additional health benefits that they can provide.
While maintaining a well-balanced diet is essential, you may also consider incorporating certain teas into your routine. But it is important to use these herbs with caution and speak to a lactation consultant first to determine which is right for your unique situation. Here are 6 healthy teas for breastfeeding moms that are known for their potential positive effects.
6 Healthy Teas for Breastfeeding Moms
1.) Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is well-known for its calming properties. For breastfeeding mothers dealing with stress or difficulty sleeping, a cup of chamomile tea can be a soothing and relaxing addition to promote better sleep. It is also believed to have galactagogue effects but there hasn’t been enough research or evidence to accurately determine any positive impact that it may have on milk production.
2.) Dandelion Tea
Dandelion tea is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly potassium. It is known for its diuretic properties, which can help with fluid balance in the body. It is also known to help treat inflammation while promoting healthy milk production. Dandelion is recognized by the FDA as safe, but nursing mothers should still use it in moderation and be mindful of rare but potential allergic reactions.
3.) Ginger Tea
Ginger has been used in various cultures around the world to help women heal after child birth. It is also believed to help stimulate milk production. For breastfeeding moms experiencing indigestion or nausea, ginger tea can be a natural remedy because of its digestive benefits. Additionally, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to overall health. But more research is needed to determine how effective ginger really is in increasing milk production in women.
4.) Moringa Tea
Moringa is scientifically known as Moringa oleifera but it is often referred to as a “superfood” due to its rich nutritional profile. Moringa tea is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium. It is believed to be essential for both milk production and the sustained health of both the breastfeeding mother and her baby.
5.) Nettle Tea
Nettle Tea is made from Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) which has been used for generations to stimulate milk supply. It is a nutrient-rich option that provides a natural source of iron, calcium, and magnesium. These minerals are vital for maintaining the health of both mom and baby while contributing to overall well-being. It is not recommended to use Nettle during pregnancy, only after birth. But it is best to consult with a lactation consultant to determine if it is right for you.
6.) Raspberry Leaf Tea
While raspberry leaf tea is more commonly associated with pregnancy, it can also offer benefits during the breastfeeding phase. It is believed to support the female reproductive system and promote postpartum healing as well. According to Parents.com, drinking red raspberry leaf tea could help reduce nausea and aid in labor and delivery but if you are allergic to it or have pre-existing health conditions such as gastrointestinal issues then you may experience negative side effects.
Final Thoughts
Remember that maintaining a well-balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting adequate rest are crucial steps for maintaining a healthy breastfeeding journey, not just for you but for your little one as well.
I hope you found this post informative. Please don’t forget to share. Also, What teas have you tried in the past? What effects did they have on you? Feel free to comment below and let us know. It is important to mention that the effects of these drinks may vary for different people. Although these herbs have been used to boost milk production, most of them haven’t been scientifically proven so it is still important to consult with a healthcare provider to find out which is best suited for your unique needs and situation, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions, medications or concerns.
Sources
https://www.momjunction.com/articles/chamomile-tea-during-breastfeeding_00360983/
https://www.meandqi.com/journal/dandelion-breastfeeding-according-to-chinese-medicine
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501872/
https://www.verywellfamily.com/breastfeeding-and-ginger-information-and-safety-4147961
https://www.verywellfamily.com/using-stinging-nettle-to-increase-breast-milk-supply-431844
https://www.parents.com/red-raspberry-leaf-tea-for-labor-benefits-and-safety-7558689
