As a breastfeeding mom, you are probably no stranger to navigating all the ups and downs of postpartum life. There are the sleepless nights, the endless diaper changes, and occasionally some concerns about milk supply. If you’re worried about producing enough milk for your baby, you might have considered Milk Thistle as a natural remedy to boost your production. And you are not alone! This herbal supplement, also known as Silymarin, has gained much attention for its potential benefits, but what does the research say about this herb? Let’s dive right in and take a closer look.
What is Milk Thistle?
Milk thistle is an herbal remedy used for centuries in traditional medicine, often for liver health. Its active compounds, collectively called silymarin, have been believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. And, yes, while most commonly associated with liver support, there have been some theories as to how it could help with breastfeeding, especially when it comes to boosting milk supply!
What Does the Research Say?
So, is there any actual evidence to prove that milk thistle can increase milk production? Well, the answer is not quite a cut-and-dry yes or no. Some studies have suggested that the herbal remedy could positively affect milk supply, but the evidence is not conclusive. For example, an article published in the Complementary Medicine journal found that taking milk thistle increased milk volume in breastfeeding women. Unfortunately, it only covered four studies with small sample sizes and didn’t set clear enough guidelines on important facts like how much should be taken or long-term safety.
However, there have not been enough studies with many participants to settle the matter conclusively. Questions on the herb’s variability and individual responses to it still need to be researched before any clinical finding can be officially presented.
Are There Any Side Effects of Milk Thistle?
While milk thistle is, for the most part, considered to be relatively safe for most people, it is important to understand that there might be side effects. This can be especially true if you are breastfeeding! Some moms have reported mild digestive troubles, including nausea or diarrhea. Also, since milk thistle can potentially interact with certain medications, it is always a good idea to reach out to a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
One of the main concerns that a breastfeeding mom might have is that they aren’t producing quite enough milk for their baby. Milk thistle has been recommended as a way to increase milk supply, but there simply hasn’t been enough study done on the remedy when it comes to breastfeeding. There’s no guarantee that it works for everyone, so it’s simply a good idea to approach taking it with caution. And while milk thistle is not typically considered a “risky” herb, those with allergies to ragweed, daisies, or marigolds should be cautious. This is because milk thistle and these other flowers belong to the same “family” and can cause the same issues in those taking it.
Final Thoughts
If you want a more natural way to support your breastfeeding journey, milk thistle could be something to consider–but it is not some magic fix! It’s always a good idea to reach out and consult with your doctor or a lactation consultant to see if it is a good fit for you. And remember, there are plenty of other ways to boost milk production, like staying hydrated, eating nutritious foods, and practicing good old skin-to-skin contact!
Curious about other foods that may support your breastfeeding experience? Check out this article on the eight best foods for breastfeeding moms here. And, as always, if this article helped you out, make sure to like, comment, and share!
References
Jones, Jerlyn. (2024). 7 Science-Based Benefits of Milk Thistle. Healthline. Retrieved from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/milk-thistle-benefits
Vora, A., Rajesh, P., & Nair, A. (2022). Effect of Milk Thistle plant on breast milk volume: A systematic review. Research Gate. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363264399
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). Milk thistle. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://nccih.nih.gov/health/milk-thistle
National Institutes of Health. (2021). Milk thistle and breastfeeding: Is it safe?. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
