Fenugreek is an herb long used in alternative medicine. It is a common ingredient in Indian dishes and often taken as a supplement.
This herb can have numerous health benefits.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is a plant about 60-90 cm tall. It has green leaves, small white flowers and pods that contain small golden brown seeds.For thousands of years, fenugreek has been used in alternative and Chinese medicine to treat skin conditions and many other diseases .Recently, it has become a common household spice and thickening agent. It can also be found in products, such as soap and shampoo.
Fenugreek seeds and powder are also used in many Indian dishes because of their nutritional profile and slightly sweet, nutty taste.
One tablespoon (11.1 grams) of whole fenugreek seeds contains 35 calories and several nutrients (2 Trusted Source):
Breast milk is the best source of nourishment for your baby's development. However, some mothers may find it difficult to produce sufficient amounts.
While prescription drugs are commonly used to increase breast milk production, research suggests that fenugreek may be a safe and natural alternative.
A 14-day study of 77 new mothers found that drinking herbal teas with fenugreek seeds increased breast milk production, which helped the babies gain weight.
Another study divided 66 mothers into three groups. One received fenugreek tea, the second a placebo and the third nothing.
The volume of breast milk pumped increased from about 1.15 ounces (34 ml) in the control and placebo groups to 2.47 ounces (73 ml) in the fenugreek group.
While this research is encouraging, you should discuss any concerns about breast milk production with your midwife or doctor.
