Galactagogue: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|An article about galactagogues, substances that promote lactation.}} | |||
== | == Galactagogues == | ||
[[File:galegaofficinalis03.jpg|thumb|right|Galega officinalis, a plant used as a galactagogue]] | |||
A '''galactagogue''' or '''lactagogue''' is a substance that promotes [[lactation]] in humans and other animals. These substances can be found in various forms, including [[herbs]], [[medications]], and [[foods]]. Galactagogues are often used by [[breastfeeding]] mothers who wish to increase their [[milk supply]]. | |||
== Types of Galactagogues == | |||
Galactagogues can be classified into two main categories: herbal and pharmaceutical. | |||
== | === Herbal Galactagogues === | ||
Herbal galactagogues are derived from plants and have been used traditionally in many cultures to support lactation. Some common herbal galactagogues include: | |||
* '''[[Fenugreek]]''' (''Trigonella foenum-graecum'') | |||
* '''[[Blessed thistle]]''' (''Cnicus benedictus'') | |||
* '''[[Fennel]]''' (''Foeniculum vulgare'') | |||
* '''[[Galega officinalis]]''' (''Galega officinalis'') | |||
== | These herbs are often consumed as [[teas]], [[capsules]], or [[tinctures]]. | ||
=== Pharmaceutical Galactagogues === | |||
Pharmaceutical galactagogues are medications that can help increase milk production. Some of these medications include: | |||
* '''[[Domperidone]]''' | |||
* '''[[Metoclopramide]]''' | |||
These medications work by increasing the levels of [[prolactin]], a hormone that stimulates milk production. | |||
== Mechanism of Action == | |||
Galactagogues work by influencing the hormonal pathways involved in lactation. The primary hormone responsible for milk production is [[prolactin]], which is secreted by the [[pituitary gland]]. Galactagogues may increase prolactin levels or enhance the sensitivity of the breast tissue to prolactin, thereby promoting milk production. | |||
== Usage and Considerations == | |||
While galactagogues can be helpful for some breastfeeding mothers, it is important to use them under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Not all women will respond to galactagogues, and some may experience side effects. Additionally, addressing underlying issues such as [[latch problems]] or [[feeding frequency]] is crucial for successful breastfeeding. | |||
== Related Pages == | |||
* [[Lactation]] | |||
* [[Breastfeeding]] | * [[Breastfeeding]] | ||
* [[Prolactin]] | * [[Prolactin]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Herbal medicine]] | ||
[[Category:Breastfeeding]] | [[Category:Breastfeeding]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Herbalism]] | ||
Latest revision as of 11:59, 15 February 2025
An article about galactagogues, substances that promote lactation.
Galactagogues[edit]
A galactagogue or lactagogue is a substance that promotes lactation in humans and other animals. These substances can be found in various forms, including herbs, medications, and foods. Galactagogues are often used by breastfeeding mothers who wish to increase their milk supply.
Types of Galactagogues[edit]
Galactagogues can be classified into two main categories: herbal and pharmaceutical.
Herbal Galactagogues[edit]
Herbal galactagogues are derived from plants and have been used traditionally in many cultures to support lactation. Some common herbal galactagogues include:
- Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
- Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
- Galega officinalis (Galega officinalis)
These herbs are often consumed as teas, capsules, or tinctures.
Pharmaceutical Galactagogues[edit]
Pharmaceutical galactagogues are medications that can help increase milk production. Some of these medications include:
These medications work by increasing the levels of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates milk production.
Mechanism of Action[edit]
Galactagogues work by influencing the hormonal pathways involved in lactation. The primary hormone responsible for milk production is prolactin, which is secreted by the pituitary gland. Galactagogues may increase prolactin levels or enhance the sensitivity of the breast tissue to prolactin, thereby promoting milk production.
Usage and Considerations[edit]
While galactagogues can be helpful for some breastfeeding mothers, it is important to use them under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Not all women will respond to galactagogues, and some may experience side effects. Additionally, addressing underlying issues such as latch problems or feeding frequency is crucial for successful breastfeeding.
