Can Breastfeeding Teas Really Boost Milk Supply? What New Mums Need to Know

Hi, I’m Hilary.

I remember the first time I sat staring at my baby, wondering if I was making enough milk. Was he getting what he needed? Was my body keeping up? Was I doing something wrong? The panic crept in quickly, and like so many new mums, I turned to Google.

I searched for every possible way to support my milk supply and one thing kept coming up—breastfeeding teas.

At first, I was skeptical. Could a simple cup of tea really make a difference? Or was it just another wellness trend? But as someone who has spent years studying hormonal health and nutrition, I knew that herbs have been used for centuries to support breastfeeding mothers.

So, let’s break it down: Can breastfeeding teas really boost milk supply? And if so, how do they work?

How Does Breastfeeding Tea Work?

Unlike lactation supplements, which deliver concentrated doses of a single ingredient, breastfeeding teas take a whole-body approach to milk production by:

✔ Supporting prolactin (the milk-making hormone) – Certain herbs help increase prolactin levels naturally, which signals the body to produce more milk.
✔ Reducing stress & promoting oxytocin – Breastfeeding is not just about supply—it’s about let-down reflex, relaxation, and emotional well-being.
✔ Providing essential minerals & hydration – Milk production is physically demanding, and without proper hydration & nutrients, the body struggles to keep up.

The best milk supply boost teas focus on hydration, hormone balance, and nourishment—not just increasing milk flow artificially.

The Science Behind Milk-Boosting Herbs

Many breastfeeding teas rely on traditional galactagogues (herbs that help stimulate milk production). But do they actually work?

1. Fennel & Moringa: Proven to Increase Milk Production

✔ Fennel is rich in phytoestrogens, plant compounds that naturally increase prolactin levels—which directly impacts milk supply.
✔ Moringa has been studied for its ability to boost milk volume, with research showing that mums who take moringa see an increase in milk output within a few days.

2. Stinging Nettle & Oat Straw: Essential for Postpartum Replenishment

✔ Stinging nettle is packed with iron, calcium, and magnesium, all of which are depleted during breastfeeding.
✔ Oat straw provides B vitamins and minerals that help sustain energy, mood, and steady milk production.

3. Holy Basil & Vervain: The Stress-Lowering Duo

✔ Holy basil is an adaptogen, meaning it helps regulate stress hormones—which is crucial, since stress blocks milk let-down.
✔ Vervain has been used for centuries to calm the nervous system, promoting oxytocin release and easier milk flow.

These herbs—found in The Breastfeeding Herbata—don’t just boost supply, they help nourish the mother.

The Role of Hydration in Milk Supply

One of the biggest milk supply myths is that just drinking more water will increase production. But hydration alone isn’t enough—it’s about what’s in the water.

Breast milk is nearly 90% water, but the body also requires electrolytes, minerals, and hormone balance to produce it efficiently.

A well-formulated breastfeeding tea provides:
✔ Hydration – Keeping fluids balanced so milk supply stays steady.
✔ Electrolytes – Preventing depletion, which can cause energy crashes.
✔ Hormone support – Ensuring prolactin & oxytocin levels stay high.

That’s why a mineral-rich lactation tea is more effective than plain water alone.

Who Can Benefit from Breastfeeding Tea?

A lactation-supporting herbal tea can help if you:
✔ Have noticed a dip in supply and want to support steady milk flow.
✔ Are struggling with stress or slow let-down, which can impact milk output.
✔ Feel dehydrated or depleted, and need extra nourishment.
✔ Want to avoid synthetic supplements and focus on natural support.

However, if you have an underlying medical condition (such as thyroid imbalances or insulin resistance), always check with a health professional before introducing lactation herbs.

How to Get the Most Out of Breastfeeding Tea

If you’re trying a breastfeeding-friendly tea, here’s how to use it effectively:

✔ Drink it consistently. Herbal teas work best over time, so aim for 2–3 cups per day.
✔ Pair it with good nutrition. No tea can replace eating enough nourishing, whole foods.
✔ Make it part of your breastfeeding ritual. Drinking warm tea relaxes the nervous system, helping with oxytocin release and let-down.

What Worked for Me?

When I switched from plain water to a well-formulated breastfeeding tea, I noticed:

✔ Milk let-down became easier – Because my body was more relaxed.
✔ Energy levels improved – Thanks to iron-rich, mineral-replenishing herbs.
✔ Less stress around supply – Because I knew I was supporting my body naturally.

That’s why I love The Breastfeeding Herbata—it’s not just about boosting milk, it’s about nourishing the whole mother.

So, can breastfeeding teas really boost milk supply? Yes—but the best ones do so much more than that. 

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.