Herbal Remedies for Postpartum Depression

Due to many queries, I keep an eye out for herbal remedies for postpartum depression that appear to be safe for breastfeeding mothers.

St. John's Wort appears to be relatively safe for nursing mothers, but caution should be used. See Is St. John's Wort safe for breastfeeding moms?

Evening Primrose Oil capsules are reported to be quite helpful for postpartum depression, and are considered to be safe for breastfeeding moms. I haven't seen an exact dosage of Evening Primrose Oil quoted for PPD. Three capsules per day have been suggested for breastfeeding moms with fibrocystic breasts; one capsule per day has been suggested for breastfeeding moms with sore nipples during ovulation.

Other herbs that can be helpful for postpartum depression are motherwort and blessed thistle.

Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year by Susun Weed includes a recipe for "Postpartum Depression Brew" that includes Licorice root, Raspberry leaf, Rosemary leaves and Skullcap.

Additional information

Is St. John's Wort Safe for Breastfeeding Moms?

Postpartum Depression Treatment: Resources for Breastfeeding Mothers

Postpartum Depression (Main Menu)

Herbs and Breastfeeding (Main Menu)

@ other websites

Kava: Safe for nursing moms? by Kathy Kuhn, RN, BSN, IBCLC

Herbal Treatment of Depression by Dr. Jay Gordon (note that this is not aimed at nursing moms. Kava and ginseng are not recommended for nursing moms)

Disclaimer: Most herbal treatments have not been thoroughly researched, particularly in regard to lactation. Herbs are drugs, and some caution is necessary. I am presenting this data as is, without any warranty of any kind, express or implied, and am not liable for its accuracy nor for any loss or damage caused by a user's reliance on this information.

Page last modified: 05/19/2006
Written: 07/13/1998

Disclaimer: All material on this website is provided for educational purposes only, although every effort is made to provide accurate and up-to-date information. Unless otherwise noted, the articles at this website are not written by doctors or other health care professionals. If you are concerned about your health, or that of your child, consult with your health care provider regarding the advisability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to your individual situation.

Web Design courtesy of Summit

since 2/19/98