Herbal Infusions While Breastfeeding: Which Ones to Choose

In brief: During breastfeeding, certain plants are traditionally used to support milk production: fennel, anise, fenugreek, cumin, and goat's rue. Others are best avoided as they can pass into breast milk (sage, concentrated parsley, peppermint in large amounts, all of which may reduce milk supply). Always consult your midwife or doctor before any regular use.

Breastfeeding is a time when a new mother passes part of what she consumes through her milk. Herbal infusions are no exception: some can support milk production (known as galactagogue plants), while others may reduce it or have unwanted effects on the baby. This page distinguishes between the two, without replacing professional medical advice.

Traditional galactagogue plants

Several plants have been used for generations to support breast milk production. Scientific evidence remains limited, but traditional use is well established:

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare, fruit): the most emblematic galactagogue plant. Studies on infant colic suggest good tolerability.
Green anise (Pimpinella anisum): traditionally used to support lactation.
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum): traditional use similar to fennel.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): widely used in Arabic and Indian tradition to support lactation. It may give a distinctive scent to breast milk and perspiration.
Goat's rue (Galega officinalis): traditional galactagogue use.
Nettle as a short course: remineralising and toning for a tired new mother. See our nettle guide.

Plants to avoid while breastfeeding

Common sage: documented anti-galactagogue effect, traditionally used for weaning.
Peppermint in large amounts: may reduce milk supply.
Concentrated parsley infusion: anti-galactagogue.
Liquorice in large amounts: may affect blood pressure.
Stimulant plants taken as a course (Yerba Mate, guarana): caffeine passes into breast milk.
Intensive draining plants: risk of dehydration and mineral imbalance.
Essential oils taken orally: avoid without professional guidance.
Green and black tea: limit caffeine to 1 to 2 cups per day.

Recipes to support milk production

Classic galactagogue infusion: fennel + anise + cumin (equal parts). 1 teaspoon per 250 ml cup, steep for 8 minutes, 2 to 3 cups per day.
A more complete blend: fennel + goat's rue + nettle. Traditionally chosen during breastfeeding, it also provides minerals for the mother.
For a tired mother: nettle + lemon verbena + linden blossom. Remineralises and soothes.
For a gentle moment: fennel infusion is traditionally enjoyed by new mothers. Any use with an infant should always be validated by a healthcare professional.

Good breastfeeding practices

Before reaching for galactagogue plants, the most reliable foundations for healthy milk production are:

Frequent, on-demand feeding: stimulation is the primary driver of milk production.
Good hydration: at least 2 litres of water per day.
A balanced diet: around 400 to 500 kcal more per day than before pregnancy.
Sleep and rest: stress and fatigue can reduce milk supply.
Support: midwife, lactation consultant, breastfeeding association.

Important precautions

Everything a mother consumes passes in part into her milk, including the active compounds in plants.
Always seek advice from your midwife, lactation consultant, or paediatrician before starting any herbal course.
Watch your baby: changes in mood, digestive issues, or skin reactions may be linked to a plant you have consumed.
Keep courses short: 2 to 3 weeks at most, rotating between different plants.
Choose reliable sources: opt for organic plants, ideally from a pharmacy.
If milk supply is a concern: seek advice before multiplying herbal infusions. The causes may be hormonal, mechanical, or related to feeding frequency.

Disclaimer: the information in this article is for educational purposes only. It does not replace advice from a healthcare professional (midwife, doctor, or lactation consultant). Breastfeeding difficulties have multiple causes that require personalised assessment.

Sources: European Medicines Agency, monographs (Foeniculum vulgare, Pimpinella anisum) · Anheyer D. et al., Pediatrics on fennel and infantile colic (PMID:29110636) · ANSES, recommendations on the use of plants during breastfeeding · WHO, guidelines on breastfeeding.

Written by

Julien Huot, founder of Thés & Traditions. Tea selector since 2016, trained in tasting and passionate about sharing the cultures of tea and herbal infusions.

Published 17 April 2019 · Updated 21 May 2026

Frequently asked questions

The classic galactagogues: fennel, anise, cumin, fenugreek, goat's rue. Always in moderate amounts and with guidance from your midwife or lactation consultant.
2 to 3 cups per day over a short course (2 to 3 weeks). Vary the plants and avoid drinking the same one every day for months on end.
Common sage (anti-galactagogue, used for weaning), concentrated parsley, peppermint in large amounts, draining or stimulant plants.
Partly, yes. Everything you consume passes in small amounts into your milk. This is why plants that are gentle in normal use are preferable, taken in moderate amounts.