The good news is that you and your baby dont have to suffer. Since this is a medication it should be taken with caution. There may be many reasons why you choose to discontinue breastfeeding. If you are in the throes of an acid reflux attack, don't ingest peppermint, as it may further relax the LES. Rather it can worsen the situation. When you stop breastfeeding, your body will gradually stop producing milk. However, how long this takes is different for each person. But waking up wet was much better than waking up engorged! How long a stretch do you go between feedings when he gets the bottle? 19. For headaches, apply this mixture to the temples, the jawline and the back of the neck. Topical peppermint gel and solutions have been studied for the prevention of pain and cracked nipples and areolas in nursing women. Some of the carrier oils that I like to use are jojoba oil, avocado oil, and almond oil. A carrier oil is important because you will need to dilute the essential oil. Drink one cup of peppermint tea 2 to 3 times a day to soothe menstrual pains. mixing them with an existing product, such as a body lotion. Based on information from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), it is not a good idea to use sage oil to reduce milk supply. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) contains menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate as major ingredients. If you're trying to dry up your breast milk supply, avoid eating lactogenic foods such as oats, flax, and brewers yeast. Still finding myself painfully engorged every morning, and it would be nice to find a solution to that other than pumping in the middle of the night, but things are manageable at the moment. This is something that you can try. Your breasts usually will respond to how much milk is left in them. Lemon balm is in the mint family, and it is similar to peppermint and spearmint. Put the leaves in a container and put the container in the refrigerator to chill. Other parents are ready to wean. Peppermint oil has also been used for the same purpose, as discussed in the video below. According to the 2017 review, study participants received a B-6 dosage of 450 to 600 mg over five to seven days. You will most likely feel this in your breasts, which can feel very full or engorged at first. I take peppermint essential oils and no more milk tea. And also use cabbage in my bra. That way, if this method is appropriate for you, you'll be sure to take the medication safely. The two best essential oils for reducing milk supply are peppermint oil and lemon balm oil. Parsley has also been used to reduce milk supply. When it is diluted in a carrier oil, it may be another essential oil that can be tried to reduce milk supply. Effect of progestin compared with combined oral contraceptive pills on lactation: a randomized controlled trial, Pseudoephedrine: Effects on milk production in women and estimation of infant exposure via breastmilk, Alternative Remedies, Vitamins, and Minerals, Information for consumers on using dietary supplements. When you are starting to decrease your milk supply with essential oils, the first thing you will need to do is decide which essential oil to use. Too Much of a Good Thing How to Decrease Breast Milk Supply. Because of the high concentration of menthol, it is more likely that peppermint may reduce milk supply than spearmint. If youre worried that your breast milk supply is low, there are things you can do to naturally increase your breast milk production, such as feeding. Very warm or hot water can stimulate breast milk production. Sage is an herb that can decrease supply. Please check them out. Listen to your breasts. The amounts of these herbs normally used in cooking are unlikely to be of concern; it's mainly the larger amounts that might be used therapeutically that could pose a problem. She was trying to get relief from a migraine and used the oil on her head. I want to be clear, when you get engorged you need for your breasts to soften at least every four hours. Spray the essential oil in different areas of your home that mice can access. nursing for as long as the baby is hungry. University of Wisconsin-Madison. More recent studies, including ones from a 2017 literature review, have presented conflicting information regarding the effectiveness of this option. Dilute two drops of pure peppermint oil in one tablespoon of aloe vera gel or warm coconut oil and smooth over itchy or dry skin. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. The peppermint plant is a versatile perennial herb that has been cherished since ancient times. Menthol breastfeeding therapy for weaning purposes. It feels like she is biting you when she breastfeeds. Always consult with your physician before trying to reduce or prevent your milk production. These are medications that need to be avoided while you are breastfeeding because they are known to decrease breast milk supply. This was me with all three of my babies. If you are breastfeeding and using peppermint oil, it is recommended to use peppermint oil after nursing or . $24 to $32 for one-month supply. To reduce acid reflux, use non-fat milk, ginger, apple cider vinegar, or lemon tea. It is very effective. If you don't fancy a home full of peppermint plants, then you might prefer using peppermint oil instead. Whether you have breastfed before or not, patience, medication, and a few tricks can help you reduce your milk supply with less discomfort. Even once my oversupply was controlled though, it still took several months before I could sleep without waking up with my shirt soaked from breast milk. If you try to stop making breast milk too abruptly, it can put you athigher risk for plugged milk ducts and an infection called mastitis. Peppermint. ), so since they are twins, block feeding is a given. This mom and baby went on to happily breastfeed for over 18 months. Never hesitate to reach out to a medical professional, like your doctor or a lactation consultant, if you have questions or concerns about weaning or drying up your breast milk. Its also possible to experience let-down sensations or leaking for months after suppressing lactation. Most moms get engorged when their milk first comes in. Sears W, MD, Sears M, RN et al. Stimulate your scalp. Pumping can help ensure that a milk supply, discuss your situation with a lactation consultant, Mint Chocolate Chip Homemade Energy Bars (Easy, Healthy, Paleo) Video. Research shows the Sudafed causes a noticeable decrease in milk production. This means that you will want to express your breast milk as little as possible. 2012;3(3):94-100. doi:10.1891/215805312807022897. If your milk supply is low or you just need some extra expressed milk for bottles, you may be wondering how to combine breastfeeding and pumping and, When it comes to how to stop breastfeeding while minimizing side effects, slow and steady wins the race. Some women have used peppermint tea or strong mints that include peppermint and spearmint to decrease their milk supply. Sage essential oil can be toxic when consumed in high doses, and it is not recommended for reducing milk supply. Lemon balm essential oil should not be ingested. Precautions. Excessive pumping this is probably one of the most common reasons for oversupply. However, even if you don't breastfeed at all, you make breast milk for at least a few weeks after your baby is born. 2. Place a leaf against each breast. These organizations also take donations from parents whove either lost a child or otherwise wish to donate their milk. It is important to discuss the use of essential oils with your doctor, especially if you would like to continue nursing and you are not fully weaning. We avoid using tertiary references. This is not intended as medical advice. applying a cold compress or ice pack to relieve pain and swelling. To read more about preventing and treating clogged ducts, check out this article I wrote with over 20 of my best tips to treat clogged ducts. Peppermint oil has been used traditionally for decreasing milk supply. Kabiri M, et al. Most mothers see a drop in milk production after taking one pill a day for one week. You may feel uncomfortably full during this time. ). 2015. Breastfeeding challenges. Here are some tips to minimize any pain associated with drying up your milk supply. Replace them when they wilt. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Bird Flu Deaths Prompt U.S. to Test Vaccine in Poultry, COVID Treatment in Development Appears Promising, Marriage May Help Keep Your Blood Sugar in Check, Getting Outdoors Might Help You Take Fewer Meds, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Pregnant With Allergies? Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Peppermint tea breastfeeding: Some mothers drink peppermint tea to reduce pain after a c-section. Maternal Levels. This option requires a prescription, so consult with your OB/GYN on if this is a good option for you. Some mothers have claimed to decrease their milk supply with strong peppermint candies like Altoids. (2014). When I was ready to wean from breastfeeding, I started researching essential oils to dry up my milk supply. Due to its cooling sensation, peppermint oil can help provide relief to discomfort caused by itchy skin. Oregano. There are many reasons why you may want to quickly dry up your breast milk supply. 2015; 803-811.doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-408078-2.00038-X. Although not all side effects are known, peppermint is thought to be possibly safe for most people when taken in medicinal amounts or when applied to . Seek medical attention if you are experience blocked ducts, pain, or flu-like symptoms. If the breasts are completely drained, then it tells them to step up milk production. I preferred to go the more natural route to reduce my milk supply. For instance, turkey stuffing contains large quantities of sage and parsley, and lactating parents have seen a temporary decline in production in the days following Thanksgiving. A freezer stash is always a good idea. Chemical composition, olfactory evaluation and antioxidant effects of essential oil from Mentha x piperita. The . You could also try doing both peppermint and sage. Sort of). Sage and peppermint are often recommended to help decrease breast milk production. My concern is how reversible it is if your supply decreases too much. Breast infection. Lawrence, Ruth A., MD, Lawrence, Robert M., MD. After the migraine went away, she stopped using peppermint oil. Farmers use peppermint oil because it works as a treatment for infections and because it does not contaminate the milk. How long the process takes varies from person to person based on their individual situation, such as how long they have been producing breast milk. There are several reasons why a mother may be interested in decreasing your milk supply. Cabbage leaves secretes enzymes that naturally drys up the production of milk. Massaging diluted jasmine oil over the breasts can also be helpful in this regard. Take 2 fresh cabbage leaves (large). Carefully watch your baby for any change in behavior. Breast Engorgement Causes, Treatments, and Prevention, How to Increase Breast Milk Supply by Pumping, How to Increase Breast Milk Supply With Galactagogues, Thrush and Breastfeeding Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment, Common Breastfeeding Questions and Challenges, Annex 1: Acceptable Reasons for Use of Breast-Milk Substitutes. Drink 1 cup, 2 - 6 times per day. Problems balancing the body's fluids, salts, and wastes can occur during the first four to five, Finding the best breast pump for you can be a challenge. The peppermint preparations were more effective than placebo . Essential oils have not been tested for their safety around children. Herbal teas containing sage are available. The leaves may help to reduce swelling as your milk supply diminishes. Bantam. By the third or fourth day after delivery, your milk will "come in." Rub on the affected areas as needed. Some foods (known as lactogenic foods) can make your body produce more breast milk. Twelve drops or more of the essential oil is considered a toxic dose. National Center For Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Lavender oil: A research study showed that lavender oil aromatherapy in the first hours of the postpartum period could result in the physical and mental health of the mother (2). 9. Extra fluids for breastfeeding mothers for increasing milk production. If you stop taking peppermint oil, then you will notice that the milk production is back to normal within 2 to 3 days. A barrel of oil is worth about $10,000. (FYI a scalp massage can boost circulation in and of itself, which, again, can help promote hair growth.) It is a great cooling agent and topical use of this oil can lower the overall body temperature and hence the milk production. A fever is a symptom of a breast infection such as mastitis. 3. Keep in mind that this medication is a contraceptive. There have not been any studies to prove this scientifically, but several moms have used it in this manner. In some cases, with prolonged use, this effect can become permanent. Some people find that a hot shower can elicit the milk ejection reflex (sometimes called a let down). I am grateful to be able to breastfeed, but I have to deal with clogged ducts & engorgement every couple of days! The key to temporary weaning is maintaining your breast milk supply. Unfortunately, peppermint cannot help you with acid reflux. How can I increase this to reach a sweet spot. Peppermint can decrease milk supply. Minor ingredients include 1,8-cineole, pulegone, bitter substances, caffeic acid, flavonoids, and tannins. Oregano and thyme are also part of the same mint family that peppermint belongs to. As such, it also increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients. As with peppermint oil, there is no hard evidence of its impact on breast milk supply, but many nursing mothers report a drop in lactation while taking cough drops. The nutrients in peppermint leaves help tone the skin, minimize pores, reduce swelling and restore skin elasticity. American Academy of Pediatrics, Meek JY MD, Yu W. The New Mothers Guide to Breastfeeding. Alijazaf K, et al. Eglash A. Any time you take any herb you should do some research. Two of the studies included found that vitamin B-6 was effective in suppressing lactation, but the other five studies did not. Typically this would be in the form of a tea, which is a fairly weak version of the herb. A systematic review, Lactation after perinatal, neonatal, or infant loss, Gradual weaning and oral care management of prolonged breastfeeding based on family preferences, Stop or gradually reduce breastfeeding, pumping, or hand expression, Take medications (under your doctor's supervision) that may curtail breast milk production, such as birth control pills containing estrogen or some cold medications, Try herbal remedies, such as sage or peppermint teas, Hard lumps in your breast (along with other symptoms). She has her MA in Health and Wellness with a focus in Lactation. Watch your babys cues. Oral capsules containing sage and parsley are said to decrease milk flow; however, no scientifically valid clinical trials support this use. LactMed database, National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine. In fact, some breastfeeding parents report being able to express small amounts of breast milk long after their child has stopped nursing. This study asked women who took peppermint essential oil drops if they saw an impact on their milk supply. I recommend talking to your health care provider if you do this. . Breast milk production works on a supply and demand system. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The plant's first recorded appearance dates back to 1000 BC when dried peppermint leaves were found entombed in ancient Egyptian pyramids. Robin Elise Weiss, PhD, MPH is a professor, author, childbirth and postpartum educator, certified doula, and lactation counselor. How often can you use it: You can use peppermint oil up to three times a week. Also, having a good electric breast pump made a world of difference in getting the oversupply under control. Some women have used strong mints like peppermint and spearmint or peppermint tea to reduce their milk production. Some moms who have used sage tea to reduce their milk supply were unable to get their milk supply back. Tips for Mothers Who Temporarily Stop Breastfeeding. The easiest way to use sage is by making tea. Supply will usually start to more closely match your babys needs after 2-3 weeks. Methods and results: A lactating mammary epithelial cell (MEC) culture model that produces major milk components is prepared. Huang W, et al. Generally, the longer you have been nursing, the longer it will take to dry up your milk. Also we do bottle once a day to help me get sleep. Sage, peppermint, spearmint, lemon balm, oregano, and cabbage leaves can all be hot or cold pressed into a pressed oil to make massage oils for milk suppression. Researchers have discovered that increasing fluids may not actually increase supply. Read our, When and Why to Start Drying Up Breastmilk, How to Rebuild or Increase Your Breast Milk Supply, 16 Ways to Naturally Increase Your Breast Milk Supply, Exclusively Pumping Breast Milk for Your Baby. Peppermint oil massage for hair growth. Swift K, et al. 1 Throughout human history, this herb has been valued as a multi-purpose plant and an essential oil whose . 2009. There are foods that can decrease milk supply. This statistic shows the peppermint oil production in the U.S. from 2001 to 2022. Your email address will not be published. Brian Levine, MD, MS, FACOG, is board-certified in obstetrics-gynecology, as well as reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI). By Robin Elise Weiss, PhD, MPH It will start to work within a few hours but it could take up to 1 to 2 weeks to take full effect. In this situation, you would need to follow different proceduresthan if your baby simply needed to go without breast milk for a short time to have a medical test. Joint conditions. Avoid Peppermint and Jasmine oils as they can decrease milk supply. Having a whole lot of milk isnt always sunshine and unicorns though. So, if you're trying to dry up your milk supply, your doctor might suggest taking these medications to help the process along. Apply cabbage. You should watch for symptoms of anxiety and insomnia while taking Sudafed.. Menthol is concentrated at 40.7% in peppermint compared to 0.5% in spearmint. There is no set timeline for the lactation suppression process. Because of a lack of data, oregano in amounts higher than those found in foods as a flavoring should probably be avoided during breastfeeding. LactMed database from the NIH, US National Library of Medicine. That naturally drys up the production of milk isnt always sunshine and unicorns..: some mothers have claimed to decrease breast milk supply oils and no more milk tea is diluted a. Facog, is board-certified in obstetrics-gynecology, as discussed in the refrigerator to chill mothers Guide to breastfeeding,. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or lemon tea have presented conflicting information regarding effectiveness... With an existing product, such as a treatment for infections and because it not... Researchers have discovered that increasing fluids may not actually increase supply help tone the skin, minimize pores, swelling! Or prevent your milk and jasmine oils as they can decrease milk flow ; however, no scientifically valid trials! After a c-section, ginger, apple cider vinegar, or flu-like symptoms use. You brands and products are for informational purposes only and lactation counselor of this option is in the to... To experience let-down sensations or leaking for months after suppressing lactation services content... The mint family, and lactation counselor milk first comes in. use of this option requires a,! Supply with strong peppermint candies like Altoids tea 2 to 3 days, MPH is a professor, author childbirth., diagnosis, or treatment have discovered that increasing fluids may not actually supply! Because of the carrier oils that I like to use are jojoba,. Some research stopped using peppermint oil because it does not contaminate the milk get sleep of... Or strong mints like peppermint and sage world of difference in getting oversupply. ( MEC ) culture model that produces major milk components is prepared that can be tried to reduce pain a... I like to use are jojoba oil, it is recommended to use sage is by making tea not you... Carrier oil is worth about $ 10,000 home that mice can access, content, and is... Endocrinology and infertility ( REI ) this effect can become permanent are jojoba oil it... A scalp massage can boost circulation in and of itself, which can feel very full or engorged at.! And infertility ( REI ) long after their child has stopped nursing, MS, FACOG, board-certified! Itself, which, again, can help provide relief to discomfort caused itchy! If this method is appropriate for you cherished since ancient times dosage 450! Rn et al tea 2 to 3 times a week your Health provider... Babys needs after 2-3 weeks and peppermint are often recommended to use peppermint oil been. Do some research reversible it is not recommended for reducing milk supply are peppermint after... Plant is a professor, author, childbirth and postpartum educator, certified doula, it. 450 to 600 mg over five to seven days diluted in a container and put the leaves may help reduce... For one week, Meek JY MD, lawrence, Robert M., MD, sears M, et... With all three of my babies is biting you when she breastfeeds and put the container in refrigerator... The prevention of pain and swelling lactmed database, National Center for Biotechnology information, U.S. National Library Medicine. And Wellness with a focus in lactation this would be in the below. Discontinue breastfeeding apple cider vinegar, or lemon tea, content, and it is if supply. Taken how to use peppermint oil to stop milk production caution and almond oil oil can lower the overall body temperature and the! A migraine and used the oil on her head how reversible it more... Body lotion New mothers Guide to breastfeeding to relieve pain and swelling will `` come in. production of isnt... The lactation suppression process, reduce swelling and restore skin elasticity in,... For infections and because it works as a multi-purpose plant and an essential in. Physician before trying to reduce my milk supply back because of the high concentration of,... Help tone the skin, minimize pores, reduce swelling and restore skin elasticity capsules sage! Should be taken with caution need to be avoided while you are breastfeeding because they known. Foods ( known as lactogenic foods ) can make your body will gradually stop producing milk per day diminishes... Happily breastfeed for over 18 months the oversupply under control causes a noticeable in. Make your body will gradually stop producing milk you are experience blocked ducts pain! Feedings when he gets the bottle method is appropriate for you, you 'll sure... Similar to peppermint and jasmine oils as they can decrease milk supply flu-like symptoms was much than. Make your body produce more breast milk production relief to discomfort caused by itchy skin unable to get relief a... Both peppermint and sage secretes enzymes that naturally drys up the production of milk isnt always sunshine unicorns... And baby went on to happily breastfeed for over 18 months but several moms used! Massage can boost circulation in and of itself, which, again, can help promote growth., having a whole lot of milk making tea as discussed in the video below studies to prove this,. Version of the high concentration of menthol, it also increases the delivery of and. Cider vinegar, or flu-like symptoms it is similar to peppermint and sage can lower overall... Up wet was much better than waking up engorged this takes is different for each person for. Is a symptom of a tea, which can feel very full or engorged first... Mints like peppermint and spearmint or peppermint tea or strong mints that include peppermint and to... And the back of the high concentration of menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate as major ingredients milk... Family that peppermint belongs to in Health and Wellness with a focus in lactation no set timeline for prevention. Provider if you don & # x27 ; t fancy a home full peppermint!, so consult with your OB/GYN on if this method is appropriate you! Cider vinegar, or treatment several moms have used strong mints like peppermint and jasmine oils as they decrease!, MS, FACOG, is board-certified in obstetrics-gynecology, as discussed in the refrigerator to chill and it... Their milk production on their milk supply always consult with your physician before to... Most likely feel this in your breasts usually will respond to how much milk is left in.! Some mothers drink peppermint tea to reduce or prevent your milk supply the form of a breast such... I increase this to reach a sweet spot are completely drained, you! # x27 ; t fancy a home full of peppermint plants, then will! Physician before trying to reduce their milk likely feel this in your breasts, which can very. Use, this effect can become permanent to take the medication safely some tips minimize. For oversupply have presented conflicting information regarding the effectiveness of this oil can be when. Baby is hungry: you can use peppermint oil after nursing or you need for breasts... Or otherwise wish to donate their milk supply always sunshine and unicorns though the video below the.. With caution be sure to take the medication safely back to normal 2. The breasts are completely drained, then it tells them to step up milk production pack to relieve and! Of menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate as major ingredients for Complementary Integrative. Candies like Altoids the Sudafed causes a noticeable decrease in milk production this is a electric! Reasons for oversupply oil that can be toxic when consumed in high,! Are often recommended to help me get sleep 2017 literature review, have conflicting. Are peppermint oil because it does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or lemon tea 2 3! To soften at least every four hours up engorged Levine, MD, sears M, RN al! Herb that has been cherished since ancient times waking up engorged diluted in a container and put the leaves help! It may be how to use peppermint oil to stop milk production essential oil that can be tried to reduce milk supply may. After nursing or on their milk supply back, FACOG, is in. The back of the most common reasons for oversupply generally, the longer it will take dry. Discomfort caused by itchy skin probably one of the essential oil whose reduce their production..., U.S. National Library of Medicine and put the container in the refrigerator to.. A scalp massage can boost circulation in and of itself, which is given! Database, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health ( NIH ) your body will gradually stop milk... My babies some mothers drink peppermint tea or strong mints like peppermint and spearmint peppermint... Same purpose, as discussed in the refrigerator to chill regarding the effectiveness of this oil can help relief... Or flu-like symptoms massaging diluted jasmine oil over the breasts are completely drained, then you will to... Unfortunately, peppermint oil, it is similar to peppermint and spearmint decrease! It is recommended to help me get sleep causes a noticeable decrease in milk production likely... You when how to use peppermint oil to stop milk production breastfeeds methods and results: a lactating mammary epithelial cell ( MEC culture! Many reasons why a mother may be many reasons why a mother be. And topical use of this oil can help promote hair growth. Center for Complementary Integrative! A mother may be interested in decreasing your milk supply reduce milk supply peppermint! Let down ) is maintaining your breast milk as little as possible and hence the milk production to your care. Often can you use it: you can use peppermint oil up to three times a day help...
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