Plants for milk augmentation in lactating women: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials

Abstract

Background

Plant-based galactagogues are widely used as traditional remedies to address insufficient breast milk supply; however, their effectiveness remains uncertain, warranting a systematic evaluation of the available evidence.

Aim

This study aims to determine the precise functions of plant-based galactagogues in milk production.

Methods

This review systematically identified and evaluated studies on herbal galactagogues following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards. Relevant studies were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria using effective search strategies. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to measure quality. The pooled estimate was calculated using the mean difference with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot.

Results

After screening based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria and quality assessment using the Cochrane risk of bias tool, seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. The overall estimate measure has shown significant increase in the total milk volume (MD = 158.91; 95% CI = 92.35-225.47) and increased prolactin level (MD = 23.23%; 95%CI = 20.40-26.07) in the herbal galactagogue group as compared to the control group. Additionally, the I² data showed decreased heterogeneity between the studies. The subgroup analysis showed a significant effect of fenugreek on the total milk volume.

Conclusion

Plant-based galactagogues play a significant role in milk production. However, to provide these galactagogues with scientific support, more randomized clinical trials are required.