BREASTFEEDING TEA RECIPE
Jana Brunclikova is a Mother, Naturopath, Plant-based Chef and Author living and working in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales.
Here she shares with us her favourite herbal tea recipe she blends for new mothers experiencing low milk supply and to support feelings of anxiety commonly experienced at this time.
This recipe is simple enough to create at home and the ingredients can be easily found in your local health food or bulk food stores.
Below, Jana explains the therapeutic properties of the herbs and why she weaves their particular magic into this breastfeeding tea recipe.
HERBS FOR BREASTFEEDING
NETTLE (Urtica dioica)
A particularly nourishing and mineralising plant recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women because of its high amount of vitamins (B, C, A) and minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium). Nettle helps to stimulate breast milk production and enrich its quality.
FENNEL (Foeniculum vulgare)
Fennel is one of the most popular lactogenic (breastmilk promoting) herbs. It is rich in calcium, vitamin C, and flavonoids and combines very well with other lactogenic herbs. In addition, fennel has the added benefit of relieving colic in babies, the benefits of which get passed through breastmilk.
RED RASPBERRY LEAF (Rubus idaeus)
A truly nourishing herb, especially for women, red raspberry leaf is rich in vitamins A, B, C and E, folic acid and essential minerals including iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Red raspberry leaf tea is encouraged during breastfeeding for its nutritive properties. It helps boost milk supply, and balance hormones naturally.
ROSE (Rosa damascena)
Roses have many medicinal properties. They are rich in vitamin C which facilitates the absorption of iron, an essential mineral for breastfeeding women. They also help strengthen the immune system and fight against fatigue.
FENUGREEK (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
Fenugreek is a widely studied and used galactagogue. Galactagogues are substances, many of which are herbs, that help mothers boost their milk supply.
CHAMOMILE (Matricaria recutita)
Traditionally, mothers brewed chamomile tea for babies, as well as fennel or dill teas, to help soothe tiny tummies. Chamomile is known to ease digestive issues, and possesses an overall calming effect. Some studies have shown a lessening in crying after fussy babies are given chamomile.
LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender has long been used to relieve stress and lessen tension and adds a subtle, floral flavour to the tea.
HERBAL BREASTFEEDING TEA RECIPE
Ingredients:
¼ cup nettle
2 tbsp chamomile flowers
2 tbsp lavender flowers
2 tbsp red raspberry leaf
2 tbsp fennel seeds
2 tbsp fenugreek seeds
1 tsp dried rose petals
Method:
Place all the herbs in a bowl and blend together with a spoon until fully combined. Store in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dark place.
To make tea, pour boiling water over 1 tbsp of the herbal tea blend in your favorite mug. Cover and steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain, and drink while still warm, 1-4 times per day.
To follow more of Jana’s recipes visit her website The Secret Kitchen