top of page

Herbs & Medication To Avoid

Marble Surface
Every woman reacts differently to herbs and natural remedies.  I strongly recommend speaking to an herbalist and/or PCP if you're planning on using any herbs, natural remedies, or medications while breastfeeding.  Here is a list of herbs Kellymom.com recommends staying away from or using caution.
Herbs that may decrease milk supply:
The amounts of these herbs normally used in cooking are unlikely to be of concern, however if you notice a dip in supply after consuming one discontinue use and up your nursing sessions.
  • Black Walnut
  • Chickweed
  • Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum)
  • Lemon Balm
  • Oregano
  • Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
  • Peppermint (Mentha piperita)/Menthol
  • Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)
  • Sage (Salvia officinalis)
  • Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
  • Spearmint
  • Thyme
  • Yarrow
Herbs that may be harmful to mom and/or baby:
  • Bladderwrack
  • Buckthorn
  • Chaparral
  • Coltsfoot (Farfarae folium)
  • Dong Quai (Angelica Root)
  • Elecampane
  • Ephedra / Ephedra sinica / Ma Huang
  • Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
  • Indian Snakeroot
  • Kava-kava (piper methysticum)
  • Petasites root
  • Phen-fen, herbal
  • Rhubarb
  • Star anise
  • Tiratricol (TRIAC)
  • Uva Ursi
  • Wormwood
bottom of page