Scientific studies have shown that the galactagogue properties of fennel cause significant increases in milk production. Fennel contains a compound called anethole, which is chemically similar to the brain’s neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine binds to prolactin, the hormone that stimulates the production of breastmilk and changes its chemical composition, making it ineffective in milk production.

Since the anethole in fennel seed serves the same binding function as dopamine, anethole competes with dopamine and binds with prolactin first, but anethole preserves prolactin’s milk stimulation properties. Therefore, fennel seed causes a boost in the milk production due to drop in ineffective prolactin-dopamine compound. This herb is also used as a digestive aid that can help to soothe a colicky breastfed baby and ease postpartum discomfort.

Widely known as a potent galactagogue. Red Raspberry Leaf is a richly nutritive uterine tonic herb, high in minerals and vitamins that are helpful during nursing. Red raspberry leaf is said to bring on the milk quicker and to make the milk richer.

Traditionally used during lactation to increase breast milk as well as to provide nutritive support for the breastfeeding mother. Nettle contains easily digestible iron, calcium, vitamin K, and folic acid, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sulphur, zinc, copper, chlorophyll, fatty acids, folate, plus vitamins K, B1, B2, B3, B5, C, and E. Its minerals help build blood, and it is useful in the treatment of iron deficiency and is often used to both nourish and balance energy after childbirth. Since breastfeeding can cause a woman to lose approximately half the iron that she does during a regular menstrual cycle, iron-rich foods are important. Nettle also contains high levels of chlorophyll, and some lactation experts believe that chlorophyll is particularly conducive to building milk supply after birth. 

Used for centuries to support milk supply with the added benefit of protecting your liver. As well, this marvellous little seed has recently been shown to help with the progression of prostate, breast and endocervical tumour cells. Studies show that women using milk thistle have significant increases in breast milk.

Mandarin peel has been used for centuries as a lactation support in Chinese medicine.

Mandarin peels are a natural anti-inflammatory. Their beneficial properties are judged useful for preventing the aging of our body, inflammation and the onset of serious diseases. 

This digestive herb helps increase milk flow, dispel gas, relieve indigestion and nausea. Aniseed tea was taken in ancient Greece to "bring down the milk." 

Traditionally used to support milk production as well as for relief from colic and wind. Caraways seeds are estrogenic and relaxing (sedative); they support digestion, relieve flatulence (may ease a baby's colic through the mother's milk), they aid in treating bronchitis and bronchial asthma (are anti-spasmodic), and support milk production.

Breastfeeding mothers have been using alfalfa to support lactation for centuries. It contains phytoestrogens that resemble estrogens and can attach to estrogen receptors, and is widely understood to increase milk supply. Alfalfa contains many vitamins and minerals, and is rich in antioxidants.