An Overview on The Use of Galactogogues in the Breast-Feeding Mother

Breastfeeding mothers are often concerned about an inadequate quality of breast milk. The importance of Breastfeeding has been acknowledged by Indians since antiquity and recognized importance of certain medical plants for augmentation of Breast milk. Breastfeeding is the best nutrition for infants. Most of the mothers face the problem of insufficient breast milk which affects the health and well-being of Infant. Galactogogues are defined simply as substances that promote lactation. Oral galactagogues are substances that stimulate milk production. They may be pharmacological or non pharmacological (natural). Natural galactagogues are usually botanical or other food agents, such as moringa leaves, oats, shatavari roots, fenugreek, fennel etc. Pharmacological galactagogues such as domperidone, metoclopramide, sulpiride and Thyrotrophin releasing hormone (TRH). There are several beliefs and taboos on the Use of these galactogogues. Pre-lacteal feeding are those feeds which are given in the form of fluid or semisolid food to the infants at first three days after birth before putting infant on breastfeeding. Breastfeeding practices help the mother in understanding initiation, duration and problems encountered during breastfeeding. Maternal knowledge on breastfeeding practices, an exclusive breastfeeding has been positive health outcomes in the prevention of many chronic diseases in both infant and mother. There are several formulated products available in the market to increase the breast milk. In this review article topics like types of galactagogues, Beliefs and taboos, types of Pre-lacteal feeds, breastfeeding practices, maternal knowledge on breastfeeding and development of products to increase milk production are discussed. Keywords: Breast milk, galactagogues, metoclopramide, domperidone, breastfeeding