Prolactin is a peptide hormone produced primarily by the pituitary gland. While commonly associated with the production of breast milk, it is also involved in hundreds of other bodily processes. Individuals often seek to increase prolactin levels to address a low milk supply, a condition known as hypogalactia. This has led many to explore specific herbal and dietary supplements, known as galactagogues, that may help stimulate the body’s natural production of this hormone.
The Biological Role of Prolactin
The most widely recognized function of prolactin involves the development of mammary glands and the initiation and maintenance of milk synthesis following childbirth. This process, termed lactogenesis, depends heavily on sufficient levels of prolactin acting upon the alveolar epithelial cells in the breast. Prolactin stimulates these cells to synthesize milk components, including lactose, casein, and lipids.
Beyond lactation, prolactin performs a variety of functions that regulate overall body balance and health. It plays a part in reproductive physiology, influencing ovarian and testicular function, and is involved in modulating the immune system. The hormone also contributes to maintaining the body’s water and salt balance and is implicated in metabolism and energy regulation. A deficiency may lead to a failure to lactate, while abnormally high levels can cause issues like irregular menstrual cycles or reduced fertility.
Herbal and Dietary Supplements That Raise Prolactin Levels
A number of botanical substances, categorized as galactagogues, have been traditionally used to promote milk production. The most commonly studied and used herbal supplements include Fenugreek, Blessed Thistle, Fennel, and Moringa. These herbs are often sought out by nursing parents looking for natural ways to support their milk supply.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is perhaps the most popular galactagogue, widely available in capsule, seed, and tea forms. Capsules are generally recommended for higher potency, with daily intake ranging from 1 to 6 grams. A typical starting dosage involves taking one to two capsules (around 580 to 610 milligrams each) three times a day with meals. Many users report seeing an increase in milk volume within two to three days of consistent use.
Blessed Thistle
Blessed Thistle (Cnicus benedictus) is often taken alongside Fenugreek due to a potential synergistic effect. Suggested capsule dosages range from 390 to 1,100 milligrams, typically taken three times daily. If taken as a liquid extract or tincture, a dosage of 1 to 2 milliliters diluted in water is commonly recommended three times daily.
Fennel
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seeds have been used historically to stimulate lactation. When using dried seeds, a typical dosage is 1 to 2 grams per day in capsule or powder form. As a common preparation, tea involves steeping crushed seeds in hot water, with many sources suggesting one to two cups daily.
Moringa
Moringa (Moringa oleifera) is a nutrient-dense leaf that has been shown to significantly increase both milk volume and prolactin levels. A common dosage for Moringa capsules ranges from 250 milligrams taken once or twice daily, up to 1,800 milligrams per day. The effective components of these herbs are thought to interact with hormonal pathways, leading to the desired increase in prolactin.
Understanding the Mechanism of Action
The production of prolactin is under a unique form of control within the body, primarily inhibited by the neurotransmitter dopamine, which acts as the prolactin-inhibiting factor. Dopamine is secreted by neurons in the hypothalamus and travels to the pituitary gland, where it suppresses the release of prolactin. Therefore, any substance that blocks the action of dopamine will lead to an increase in prolactin secretion.
Certain compounds in the herbal supplements act as dopamine antagonists, meaning they bind to dopamine receptors and block the neurotransmitter’s effect. By reducing the inhibitory signal from dopamine, the pituitary gland is able to increase its synthesis and release of prolactin into the bloodstream. This mechanism is similar to how certain pharmaceutical galactagogues function.
The active components in some herbs, such as anethole in Fennel, may also possess mild estrogenic properties that can influence prolactin secretion. Estrogen is known to promote the growth of mammary tissue and can stimulate prolactin production. While the exact molecular pathway for every herbal galactagogue is not fully established, the consensus is that they modulate the neuroendocrine system to favor prolactin release.
Safety Considerations and Proper Use
While herbal supplements are often viewed as safe, they are not without potential side effects or contraindications. These products are classified as dietary supplements and are not subjected to the same rigorous testing and standardization as prescription medications. Side effects can include digestive upset, such as gas or diarrhea, or allergic reactions, particularly for those with known allergies to plants in the same family (e.g., avoiding Fenugreek if allergic to peanuts or legumes).
Some supplements, particularly Fenugreek, may affect blood sugar levels, requiring caution for individuals managing diabetes or taking hypoglycemic medication. Because these herbs can have hormonal effects, pregnant women are generally advised to avoid using them, as some have been associated with uterine contractions. Furthermore, the quality and potency of herbal products can vary significantly between brands.
The goal of increasing prolactin must be balanced against the risk of hyperprolactinemia, which is an overproduction of the hormone. Symptoms of excessively high prolactin include galactorrhea (milky discharge unrelated to nursing) or interference with the menstrual cycle and fertility. Consulting a healthcare professional or a certified lactation consultant before beginning any supplement regimen is necessary to ensure proper use and appropriate dosage.