The rhizome of Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been used for centuries as a culinary spice and traditional medicine. Ginger is renowned for its potential to alleviate nausea and aid digestion, leading many to explore its benefits in the postpartum period. New parents often seek natural ways to support milk production, and ginger is frequently cited in traditional practice as a remedy for increasing breast milk supply. Determining whether this common root influences lactation requires examining the scientific evidence.
Understanding Galactagogues
Substances that promote or increase the production and flow of a mother’s milk are classified as galactagogues. Ginger is traditionally viewed as an herbal galactagogue, particularly in parts of Asia and Turkey, where it has been used post-delivery to support the body. The use of any galactagogue should always complement, and never replace, proper breastfeeding management, which includes frequent and effective milk removal. Addressing underlying factors that affect milk production, such as latch difficulties or feeding schedules, remains the primary approach to maintaining supply.
Research Findings on Ginger and Milk Production
Scientific investigation into ginger’s effect on human milk volume has yielded encouraging results, though the overall body of evidence remains limited. One randomized, double-blind controlled trial examined the effect of dried ginger capsules on mothers immediately postpartum. Women who received 500 mg of dried ginger twice daily for seven days showed a significantly higher milk volume on the third day after delivery compared to the placebo group. The ginger group produced an average of 191.0 mL per day versus 135.0 mL per day in the control group.
The positive difference in milk volume observed on day three suggests that ginger may be beneficial in the initial phase of establishing lactation. Interestingly, the study found no difference in serum prolactin levels between the two groups, indicating that ginger’s influence may not be related to the primary milk-producing hormone. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but some theories suggest the compounds in ginger may induce systemic vasodilation, thereby increasing blood supply to the mammary tissue. This enhanced blood flow could potentially facilitate greater milk synthesis and delivery.
The trial showed the initial advantage did not persist, as milk volumes were similar between groups by the seventh day postpartum. Systematic reviews suggest the positive effect may also be limited to mothers who delivered vaginally, showing less impact on those who had a cesarean section. While these findings show promise for supporting early milk production, researchers agree that more comprehensive studies are necessary to confirm ginger’s long-term effectiveness.
Safe Usage and Potential Considerations
Ginger is classified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) and is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers when consumed in moderation. It can be safely incorporated into the diet as a spice, flavoring, or herbal tea. The dosage used in the successful clinical trial was 500 mg of dried ginger taken twice daily, which serves as a reference point for supplement use.
Mothers should exercise caution with concentrated ginger supplements or extracts, as these are not recommended without professional guidance due to the lack of sufficient safety data. Excessive intake of ginger, regardless of the form, may lead to mild gastrointestinal issues for the mother, such as heartburn, abdominal gas, or diarrhea. While rare, large amounts may also cause the nursing infant to experience increased gassiness or irritability.
Before beginning any new supplement regimen, consulting with a healthcare provider or a certified lactation consultant is prudent. This consultation is especially important for mothers taking medication, as ginger has the potential to interact with certain drugs, including those used for blood thinning or diabetes management. Professionals can help determine if ginger is appropriate for the individual’s specific health profile and breastfeeding goals.