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From:
Bonny Reid <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 28 Aug 2017 12:00:26 -0400
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Hi Kika, 

Thank you for sharing your concern about the use of alfalfa.  I was surprised to see the information about these concerns with alfalfa use as other resources (Nursing Mother's Herbal; Motherfood; Dr. Frank Nice's galactagogue information articles; LactMed; etc) suggest that this herb can be used safely during pregnancy and lactation.  Below is the information provided by http://www.mobimotherhood.org/lactogenic-foods-and-herbs-mother-natures-milk-boosters.html which is based on/similar to the information in these other resources.  I appreciate your response, reference, and will certainly take this new information into consideration.

Warmly, 
Bonny 

--

Alfalfa leaf is said to promote the development of the glandular tissue of the breasts. It can be taken both during pregnancy and after birth by mothers with a history of low milk supply. Taken after birth, it increases milk supply and is reported to increase the fat content of breastmilk. Incidentally, so do other so-called "green foods."

Alfalfa leaf is one of our most nutritious herbs. It contains chlorophyll, a host of minerals-calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, silicon, zinc-numerous vitamins-A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C, D, E, and K-as well as essential and non-essential amino acids. 

Alfalfa leaf is estrogenic and antifungal. It has substances that nourish the liver, activate the kidneys, suppress inflammation, address digestive disorders, and balance blood sugar. It is traditionally prescribed to promote the function of the pituitary gland, the source of the main hormones for lactation.

The minerals in alfalfa leaf are well balanced and easily absorbed; pregnant and lactating women therefore frequently take alfalfa leaf as a mineral supplement.

Of Note: Because alfalfa is a powerful galactagogue, mothers with normal milk supply should reduce or discontinue alfalfa a few weeks before due date. Mothers with a history of low milk supply should be cautious as well, especially if their breasts show signs of better development this pregnancy. Oversupply can reportedly develop in these mothers as well.

Pregnancy: Safe. Estrogenic. Although alfalfa can be taken to promote menstruation, there are no warnings regarding pregnancy. That said, do not overdose!

Allergy: Rare. Skin rash.

Side Effects: Diarrhea or loose stool in the mother or baby. Reduce the dosage for a few days.

Caution: Do not over-eat alfalfa sprouts or seeds. These may trigger an auto-immune, Lupus-like condition in sensitive individuals. The American Pharmaceutical Association warns that persons with systemic lupus erythematosus should avoid alfalfa products. Sheila Humphrey however, in "Nursing Mother's Herbal," says that the questionable substance does not exist in the leaf, and that the leaf supplement should therefore not be a problem.

Sources: Health-food stores; whole foods stores; herbal pharmacies; online stores.

Dosage and Preparation:
Tea: 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of water. Drink up to three cups per day. (To kick-start milk supply, double this dosage a few days. Increase is seen within two to four days.)
Infuse 1-2 handfuls in a quart of water, steep overnight.
Alfalfa Supplements: Up to 8 capsules per day.
Dried juice powder: 1 tablespoon, two times per day.
Homeopathy: X30 is used in combination with Lactuca virosa X30 for exhausted, nervous, stressed mothers.

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