Fenugreek: the galactagogue plant for breastfeeding mothers

Rich in steroidal saponins, diosgenin, mucilages and fibre, its seeds are the source of its recognised galactagogue activity — that is, its capacity to support breast milk production in breastfeeding women.

Its benefits are particularly credible during breastfeeding and the postpartum period, when milk production can fluctuate depending on fatigue, stress or feeding frequency. The quality of the seeds, their origin and extraction method determine the consistency and intensity of the galactagogue effect obtained.

In its natural form, fenugreek is a spice used in Indian, Middle Eastern and Ethiopian cuisine, where its slightly bitter golden seeds flavour curries, chutneys, injera bread and spice blends such as ras el hanout. Fresh or dried leaves are also used in dishes like methi dal or Indian flatbreads. In Europe, it is less common in everyday cooking, but can be found in some Nordic rye breads, aromatic preparations or as sprouted seeds. Other plants with similar galactagogue properties include caraway, green anise and milk thistle. The absorption of fenugreek's active compounds depends on the form consumed and the food matrix, with whole seeds being less concentrated in active compounds than standardised extracts.

In the form of supplements, fenugreek comes in many forms: seed powder capsules, standardised dry extract, herbal tea, mother tincture, and increasingly integrated into galactagogue snacks such as those from Jolly Mama, Choco Nut, Banana-choc and Cho-chocolat. This last form has the advantage of making daily intake enjoyable and convivial, fitting naturally into the routine of the first weeks of breastfeeding. For optimal effectiveness, it is preferable to ensure that the daily dose provided is sufficient and consistent. It is also worth checking the origin of the seeds, ideally organic, and the absence of unnecessary additives in its fenugreek supplement. Fenugreek is generally well tolerated, but people with diabetes or on anticoagulant treatment should exercise caution before taking any supplement.