Galactagogues are herbs, foods, and medications that stimulate milk production and increase the flow of breast milk. They can be either synthetic (pharmaceutical) or plant-derived.
Synthetic galactagogues typically work with the underlying dopamine system in the body to stimulate the production of prolactin. Herbs and foods used as galactogogues work without altering the hormonal balance in the body the way pharamceuticals do. It is for this reason that most women choose (initially) to use ‘natural’ galactogogues while they are inducing, and while they are producing milk.
Most galactagogues, whether herbal or prescription medication, have potential side effects and drug interactions that must be considered before you decide to take them.
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Herbal Galactagogues |
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Pharmaceutical Galactagogues |