What is a galactagogue?
Some mothers may not have enough breast milk to feed their babies, under such circumstances they tend to rely on some external supplements to increase their milk supply, these external agents are called galactagogues. 

What are the types of galactagogues?
The galactagogues can be herbal, synthetic, and endogenous (derived from organisms).

Herbal milk producing agents: Fenugreek, marshmallow root, thistle, red raspberry leaves, asparagus, brewer’s yeast, alfalfa, anise, burdocks, boza, vervain, nettle, fennel, etc are herbal milk producing agents. A herbal galactagogue is further divided into two classes: sedating and non- sedating. The sedating ones infect the nursing infants with their volatile constituents along with increasing the breast milk volume, but the non-sedating ones only increase the milk volume without infecting the infant. The non sedating ones are mostly linked to the anethol content.

Fenugreek, hop and blessed thistle are the most popular herbal ingredients that aid in milk production.
- Fenugreek is the most commonly used milk production agent throughout the world. This is also considered as a powerful galactagogue which can act quickly. For best effects fenugreek is combined with blessed thistle. But diabetic women are advised against fenugreek because it lowers blood sugar levels. Also, pregnant women are advised against it because over usage of this galactagogue can lead to disastrous side effects.
- Blessed thistle is one of the most effective galactagogues ever known to man. The blessed thistle works slowly because it increases milk volume just one or two days after consumption.  It can be taken as capsules, tinctures or can be brewed along with tea. For best effects they are combined with fenugreek and red raspberry leaves. -Hop is also one of the effective galactagogues used by people all over the world.  This herb is mostly used for fermenting beers. The overconsumption of hops can add to complications in women.

Synthetic milk producing agents:  Metaclopromide, Sulpiride (Egonyl) and chlorpromazine (Thorazine) and Domperidone are the popular milk enhancing agents. Normally the usage of synthetic galactagogues is advised under the supervision of medical practioner only.

Metaclopromide is most commonly used galactagogue across US. It enhances the prolactin levels in the body, thereby augmenting the milk supply. But its over consumption can lead to fatigue, diarrhea, restlessness and drowsiness. Domiperidone is the only synthetic galactagogue, which has been found to be safe and effective in enhancing milk volume. But over consumption may lead to gastrointestinal hemorrhage.

Prior to resorting to the use of galactagogues  women should try to analyze and correct the factors associated with milk inadequacy. Women should only go for medication when other natural routes fail to give results.

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