Evidence supporting the use of: Fennel
For the health condition: Nursing

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) has a long history of traditional use to support nursing mothers, specifically to promote lactation, a property known as "galactagogue" activity. In various cultures, including those in the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian regions, fennel seeds and extracts have been consumed by breastfeeding women to help increase milk supply and relieve infant colic through changes in breast milk composition. The traditional application is typically in the form of teas or as a culinary ingredient, based on anecdotal reports and centuries of use.

Scientific evidence for fennel's efficacy as a galactagogue is limited and of varying quality. Some small clinical studies and animal research suggest that compounds in fennel, such as anethole, may have estrogen-like effects that could theoretically increase prolactin (the hormone responsible for milk production). For example, a few randomized controlled trials have reported modest increases in milk volume among mothers given fennel extracts compared with placebo. However, these studies often suffer from small sample sizes, short durations, and methodological limitations, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions.

Overall, while fennel is widely used in traditional medicine to support nursing, the scientific evidence remains modest and not robust enough to fully validate its efficacy or safety for all lactating women. Health professionals generally recommend caution, as high doses of fennel may have potential side effects or interact with medications.

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