Lactation Tea vs. Supplements: What’s Best for Breastfeeding Mums?

If you’re wondering whether a breastfeeding support infusion or lactation pills is the better choice, let’s break it down—based on science...

Lactation Tea vs. Supplements: What’s Best for Breastfeeding Mums?

Hi, I’m Anna.

When I was struggling with milk supply, I did what most new mums do—I panicked. I scrolled through endless forums, read every article I could find, and ordered a mix of lactation supplements, powders, and teas, hoping something would work.

But the more I researched, the more I realised that breastfeeding isn’t just about forcing milk production—it’s about supporting the whole body. Milk supply is deeply connected to hydration, hormones, stress levels, and overall nourishment.

That’s when I started asking the right questions:
Are lactation supplements actually necessary?
Do lactation teas work, or are they just another wellness trend?
Which option truly helps with milk flow, energy, and postpartum recovery?

If you’re wondering whether a breastfeeding support infusion or lactation pills is the better choice, let’s break it down—based on science, real experiences, and what actually worked for me.

 


 

How Do Lactation Teas & Supplements Support Breastfeeding?

Both lactation teas and supplements are designed to support milk production, replenish nutrients, and balance postpartum hormones. But they work in very different ways.

  • Lactation teas use a gentle, whole-body approach, providing hydration, hormone balance, and digestion support, which all contribute to a steady milk supply.

  • Lactation supplements often deliver concentrated doses of specific galactagogues (milk-boosting herbs), but they can sometimes cause side effects like bloating, oversupply, or digestive discomfort.

The key difference? Teas nourish and replenish, while supplements stimulate and intensify.

If the goal is overall well-being and sustainable milk flow, many mums (including myself) find that a milk supply boost tea is the better long-term option.

 


 

The Benefits of Lactation Tea

When I switched from lactation pills to a hormone-balancing breastfeeding infusion, I noticed a shift—not just in my milk supply, but in my energy, digestion, and overall well-being.

Here’s why a breastfeeding-friendly tea can be a more effective option:

Hydration + Nutrients = Better Milk Flow
Breast milk is nearly 90% water, and dehydration is one of the biggest causes of low milk supply. A postpartum tea for breastfeeding provides hydration plus essential minerals, helping the body produce milk more efficiently.

Supports Hormones Naturally
Breastfeeding is a hormonal process, and stress, exhaustion, or postpartum imbalances can slow milk production. A nourishing lactation tea helps regulate hormones without overstimulating the body.

Gentle on Digestion
Many lactation supplements can cause bloating, gas, or discomfort, especially if they contain fenugreek (which doesn’t agree with everyone). A breastfeeding support infusion is easier on the stomach, making it a gentler choice for mums and babies.

Encourages Relaxation & Let-Down Reflex
Stress can inhibit oxytocin, the hormone responsible for milk let-down. A warm, calming cup of tea signals the body to relax, release tension, and support a smooth breastfeeding experience.

 


 

What’s Inside the Best Breastfeeding Support Infusions?

Not all lactation teas are created equal. Some are weak, under-dosed, or filled with unnecessary additives. The best milk supply support tea includes:

Fennel & Moringa – Traditional galactagogues that naturally boost milk flow while providing key micronutrients like iron and calcium.
Stinging Nettle & Oat Straw – Packed with minerals that replenish postpartum depletion, supporting energy and sustained lactation.
Holy Basil & Vervain – Adaptogenic herbs that help reduce stress, regulate cortisol, and encourage milk let-down.
Cinnamon & Cardamom – Warming spices that enhance circulation, digestion, and postpartum recovery.

These herbs—found in The Breastfeeding Herbata—work holistically to support milk supply, rather than just pushing the body to produce more.

 


 

The Downsides of Lactation Supplements

While lactation pills and powders can be useful in some cases, many new mums find that they aren’t always the best first choice. Here’s why:

Can Cause Digestive Discomfort
Many lactation supplements contain high doses of fenugreek, which can cause bloating, gas, or even diarrhoea in both mother and baby.

May Lead to Oversupply Issues
Some supplements overstimulate milk production, which can cause engorgement, clogged ducts, or mastitis. Unlike a nursing mother’s tea, which works with the body, supplements force production, sometimes leading to discomfort.

Lack of Hydration Support
Unlike a breastfeeding tea, lactation supplements don’t provide the essential hydration needed for milk flow. Without proper fluid intake, even the strongest galactagogues won’t work effectively.

Not All Are High-Quality or Well-Absorbed
Many mass-produced lactation pills contain fillers, additives, or low-quality herbal extracts, which aren’t as effective as whole-plant infusions.

For these reasons, many mothers (including myself) choose a breastfeeding-friendly tea first, before turning to supplements as a last resort.

 


 

When to Use a Lactation Supplement

That being said, there are situations where a concentrated lactation supplement might be useful, such as:

For emergency milk supply issues – If a mother experiences a sudden drop in milk production, a short-term high-dose galactagogue supplement may help.
For exclusive pumpers – Some women find that certain lactation supplements help maintain supply when nursing isn’t frequent.
For underlying health conditions – In cases of thyroid imbalances or postpartum hormone issues, some supplements may be beneficial.

If considering a lactation supplement, it’s important to choose a high-quality brand and pair it with a hydrating postpartum tea to avoid potential side effects.

 


 

So, Which One is Best?

✔ If you’re looking for a gentle, nourishing way to support milk supply, balance hormones, and hydrate the body, a breastfeeding tea is the best choice.
✔ If you need a fast, concentrated boost in supply, a short-term lactation supplement may be helpful—but should be paired with proper hydration and nutrition.
✔ If digestion is an issue, a postpartum tea for breastfeeding is the gentler option, as supplements can cause bloating and discomfort.
✔ If stress is affecting milk flow, a calming lactation-boosting herbal tea can naturally support oxytocin and milk let-down.

For most breastfeeding mums, starting with a well-formulated breastfeeding infusion is the safest, most effective option. It hydrates, nourishes, and gently encourages the body to do what it was designed to do—without harsh side effects.

That’s why I personally relied on The Breastfeeding Herbata—it wasn’t just about milk supply, it was about feeling stronger, calmer, and more supported in my postpartum journey.

Because when we take care of ourselves, everything else—including milk supply—falls into place.

HORMONAL & PROUD

Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI is changing the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and even, pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.

We invite you to get to know your body and its cycles better –– to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormones to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. We are here to help with the information, understanding and natural tools to support your body and the emotional process along with it.

 

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