Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), also known as lucerne, is a plant of the Fabaceae family (1). Its leaves and roots are used to prepare herbal supplements in traditional medicine, whereas its seeds are used as food. Several mothers use alfalfa during breastfeeding as the plant possesses galactagogue effects (2). But is alfalfa safe for nursing mothers and their babies? Can consuming alfalfa help increase breast milk supply? Read on as we give you an insight into the safety of alfalfa for lactating women, its possible health benefits, and its side effects. Understanding these details is necessary before you add alfalfa to your lactation diet.
Is Alfalfa Safe When Breastfeeding?
Alfalfa is “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration (3). However, there is inadequate data on the safety and efficacy of its use by nursing mothers. For this reason, alfalfa consumption in lactation should be done only under expert guidance.
Possible Health Benefits Of Alfalfa During Lactation
In some cultures, breastfeeding mothers use alfalfa to increase their breast milk supply. The following are some of the possible benefits of consuming alfalfa for breastfeeding women. Discuss the alleged nutritional benefits of alfalfa with your doctor before consumption.
Probable Side Effects Of Alfalfa When Breastfeeding
Consider these possible side effects before consuming alfalfa when breastfeeding. If your doctor gives you the go-ahead to consume alfalfa, then you can consider exploring all the ways in which you can add the herb in your diet.
Ways To Consume Alfalfa When Breastfeeding
Alfalfa leaves and sprouts contain saponins, phytoestrogens, estrogenic isoflavonoids like daidzein and genistein, vitamin K, and the essential amino acids (4) (7). The following are some ways to eat alfalfa while breastfeeding. You can also consume alfalfa in the form of alfalfa tablets or as part of herbal tea.
Precautions To Take While Consuming Alfalfa
Follow these precautions to be on the safe side (10):
