An herb that increases lactation is called what?

An herb or other substance believed to increase breast-milk production is called a galactagogue. The word is also spelled galactogogue and comes from Greek roots associated with milk and leading or producing.

Herbal galactagogues have been used in many traditional health practices. Fenugreek, fennel, milk thistle and goat’s rue are among the herbs commonly discussed in connection with lactation. The term can also include foods and prescription medicines, so it is broader than “herb” alone.

A frequent misunderstanding is that every galactagogue has been scientifically proven to work. Evidence for many herbal products remains limited or inconclusive, and products can vary in strength, purity and safety. Some herbs may interact with medicines or cause side effects in the nursing parent or infant. For that reason, a suspected low milk supply should be assessed by a qualified clinician or lactation consultant.

Milk production is often influenced by practical factors such as effective latch, feeding frequency and milk removal. Galactagogues are generally considered supportive options rather than automatic first-line solutions. The name describes the intended function of the substance, not a guarantee that it will increase milk production for everyone.