Star asks for our thoughts on whether fennel essential oil can increase milk volumes. My thoughts would be the same as regards any intervention - i) is there some reason why it might work....I mean can we use our existing knowledge of physiology, anatomy, endocrinology etc and give a plausible reason why it might work? ii) we have any empirical evidence of it working? For i), the most plausible reason here - in my opinion - for a tiny external application of anything leading to increased milk is that the mother is persuaded that it works, and *perceives* changes in her output/baby's behaviour as a result, and *attributes* them to the tiny external application of this oil. I think this is more likely than a full-on placebo effect, which, as I understand it, can have measurable, objective results. For ii), the empirical evidence here is, I am assuming, zero, but would be interested if anyone has done studies and what they have found As an aside, are advertisers in the US permitted to make claims like this? We have plenty of alt/comp remedies for all sorts of things in the UK, but advertising claims are controlled. It is ok to say something like 'X is traditionally used to treat sore feet' but not 'X cures sore feet'. It would not be legal, here, to say that fennel seed oil increases milk, unless this claim was approved by the relevant bodies. Heather Welford Neil NCT, UK >I have a lot of mamas using Fennel Essential Oil to increase milk >volumes. I was wondering if this is happening in other parts of the >country? >I live in Northern California. Jury is still out for me but the gals >say it helps. > >Thoughts? >http://www.rootedblessings.com/2-essential-oils-that-increase-milk-production-in-nursing-mothers/ > >To Use: Apply on the breasts and around the lymph area. Also apply >on the spine at breast level. You can dilute 1-2 drops in 2 T of a >carrier oil like Coconut oil or a cold pressed, unrefined avocado >oil. Make sure you are using an 100% pure trusted brand therapeutic >grade essential oil. I often like to use Young Living Oils because >I know I can trust the purity and quality. > >Star Siegfried RN, IBCLC -- *********************************************** Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html To reach list owners: [log in to unmask] Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask] COMMANDS: 1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail 2. To start it again: set lactnet mail 3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet 4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome