Peppermint And Breastfeeding

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)/Menthol “mint and breastfeeding” are herbs that are generally herbs to avoid while breastfeeding but are sometimes used to treat oversupply or used during weaning and should be avoided in large amounts during breastfeeding, as it can reduce milk supply.

Many doctors would also recommend that you drink very little peppermint tea, as peppermint tea contains menthol which may pass through the breast milk and cause diarrhea and/or skin irritation in the infant.

A good tea to drink during breastfeeding is Rooibos tea as it has no caffeine and is low in tannins.

What is peppermint good for during breastfeeding?

- You can apply lukewarm peppermint tea to sore nipples to relieve pain and inflammation. Peppermint contains antibacterial properties that can increase tissue flexibility which can actually prevent nipple injury.

- Peppermint tea breastfeeding ~ Some moms drink peppermint tea to reduce pain after a c-section. If you want to try this and are breastfeeding, I would recommend only having one or two cups per day. Peppermint tea is a weak form of peppermint and you would need to drink large amounts before it would effect your milk supply.

- Menthol breastfeeding for weaning purposes. Some moms have claimed to decrease their milk supply with strong peppermint candies like Altoids. Peppermint oil has also been used for the same purpose.

Want to ask any questions about peppermint / menthol and breastfeeding?

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