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Home > Herbs and Breastfeeding >

Is This Herb Safe for Nursing Moms?

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Herbal safety for nursing mothers

Large amounts of parsley are reported to reduce milk supply. Not recommended for nursing moms.

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Passion Flower

Passion Flower has no known side effects or contraindications. However, no data exist with regard to its use in nursing mothers. Due to its potential sedating effects on the nursling, breastfeeding infants should be monitored for this possibility. Passion Flower is classified as "Generally Regarded as Safe" by the FDA, is the subject of various European monographs for medicinal plants and is generally regarded as safe even for children and infants. See Breastfeeding and passion flower, and for general info see the Raintree Tropical Plant Database, WebMD, HealthNotes and The Natural Pharmacy.

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Peppermint

Large amounts of peppermint (Mentha piperita) are known to decrease milk supply. Not recommended for nursing moms. Peppermint oil and tea can be dangerous if given directly to babies.

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Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)

Known to decrease milk supply. Not recommended for nursing moms.

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Petasites root

This is contraindicated for nursing moms. More here.

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Phen-fen, herbal

This is a combination of ephedra and St. John's Wort. It is contraindicated for nursing moms.

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Psyllium seed (blonde) (Plantago ovata)

Psyllium seed (blonde) is considered safe for use by nursing moms, since it is not systemically absorbed. There are no known side effects, however allergic reactions have occurred. Caution should be used if you have insulin-dependent diabetes. More here.

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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: 03/03/2005
Written: 7/23/1998