01-09-2011, 02:17 PM
Alfalfa Leaf (Medicago sativa L.)
Alfalfa leaf is said to promote the development of the glandular tissue of the breasts. It can be taken both during pregnancy and after birth by mothers with a history of low milk supply. Taken after birth, it increases milk supply and is reported to increase the fat content of breastmilk. Incidentally, so do other so-called "green foods."
Alfalfa leaf is one of our most nutritious herbs. It contains chlorophyll, a host of minerals-calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, silicon, zinc-numerous vitamins-A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C, D, E, and K-as well as essential and non-essential amino acids.
Alfalfa leaf is estrogenic and antifungal. It has substances that nourish the liver, activate the kidneys, suppress inflammation, address digestive disorders, and balance blood sugar. It is traditionally prescribed to promote the function of the pituitary gland, the source of the main hormones for lactation.
The minerals in alfalfa leaf are well balanced and easily absorbed; pregnant and lactating women therefore frequently take alfalfa leaf as a mineral supplement.
Of Note: Because alfalfa is a powerful galactagogue, mothers with normal milk supply should reduce or discontinue alfalfa a few weeks before due date. Mothers with a history of low milk supply should be cautious as well, especially if their breasts show signs of better development this pregnancy. Oversupply can reportedly develop in these mothers as well.
Pregnancy: Safe. Estrogenic. Although alfalfa can be taken to promote menstruation, there are no warnings regarding pregnancy. That said, do not overdose!
Allergy: Rare. Skin rash.
Side Effects: Diarrhea or loose stool in the mother or baby. Reduce the dosage for a few days.
Caution: Do not over-eat alfalfa sprouts or seeds. These may trigger an auto-immune, Lupus-like condition in sensitive individuals. The American Pharmaceutical Association warns that persons with systemic lupus erythematosus should avoid alfalfa products. Sheila Humphrey however, in "Nursing Mother's Herbal," says that the questionable substance does not exist in the leaf, and that the leaf supplement should therefore not be a problem.
Sources: Health-food stores; whole foods stores; herbal pharmacies; online stores.
Dosage and Preparation:
Tea: 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of water. Drink up to three cups per day. (To kick-start milk supply, double this dosage a few days. Increase is seen within two to four days.)
Infuse 1-2 handfuls in a quart of water, steep overnight.
Alfalfa Supplements: Up to 8 capsules per day.
Dried juice powder: 1 tablespoon, two times per day.
Homeopathy: X30 is used in combination with Lactuca virosa X30 for exhausted, nervous, stressed mothers.
Goat's Rue (Galega officinalis)
Goat's rue belongs to the family of the legumes.
Lactation consultants have noted that goat's rue seems especially helpful for mothers with insufficient glandular tissue of the breast.
Goat's rue balances blood sugar levels, possibly improving insulin sensitivity. If you are diabetic, discuss the use of goat's rue with your doctor. If you have symptoms of hypoglycemia, consult your doctor.
Pregnancy: Good general safety rating, but no extensive testing. Take goat's rue well beneath therapeutic dosage, for instance, one mild cup of tea a day. Mothers needing the medicinal effects of goat's rue during pregnancy might consider taking metformin instead, under the guidance of their doctor.
Side effect: Can lower blood sugar. It should not be used by diabetics except under the guidance of your doctor.
Warning: The fresh plant is considered to be toxic, but the dried plant is safe to use as tea.
Sources: In bulk as tea or as tincture at special herbal pharmacies and online stores.
Dosage and Preparation:
Tincture: Take 1 - 2 ml of tincture, or 10 - 15 drops, 3 times a day.
Tea: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoonful of the herb, steep 5 -10 minutes. Drink 2 - 3 cups a day.
http://www.mobimotherhood.org/MM/article-herbal2.aspx
) the tea is OK. I still have 200 g of dried GR here that I haven't touched yet.
