In a message dated 10/2/0 7:39:41 PM, [log in to unmask] writes:
<< Also, i'm not sure about the vitex...I probably wouldn't take it while
nursing, but would add occasional soy. >>
Katherine,
I know you are very knowledgeable about natural medicine, but I do disagree
on this point. While there is suddenly controversy over vitex during bf, the
source of the controversy is itself the problem IMO. Vitex has long been
known to balance hormones and be safe for bf (actually to increase supply). I
have long been concerned that "evidence-based practice" is a dual-edged
sword. On the one hand, we are fortunate that the evidence supports bf and
informs our practice in useful and thoughtful ways. OTOH, the way in which
evidence is gathered leaves me very concerned about attitudes towards natural
and/or age-old practices. Dissecting the chemical compounds in plants, for
example, and subjecting them to the kinds of scientific research that has
become routine, IMO, does a serious disservice to our understanding of plants
and other medicines. It minimizes their true nature in an effort to simplify
it. In traditional practices (I use this term to apply to natural practices),
whole plants or synergistic compounds of several plants are commonly used,
rather than the extracted chemical constituent of a plant. There is a respect
for the frequency of the healing properties of the plants or other medicines
or modalities (such as homeopathy or acupuncture) as it relates to the
frequency of the "dis-eased" person. While this may sound "un-scientific" to
some, I am encouraged by research in quantum physics where such concepts are
beginning to be understood and even embraced as the "evidence" begins to bear
out their truth. In the meantime, vitex is an important herb for women and
even for adolescent boys and nowhere have I seen legitimate evidence that it
is unsafe. I think it is a good idea for Mary's client.
Jennifer Tow, IBCLC, CT, USA
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