Marshmallow Root & Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding supplies your baby with essential vitamins and minerals.

Breastfeeding supplies your baby with essential vitamins and minerals.

Breastfeeding is an effective way to ensure that your growing infant gets each of the nutrients she needs to develop normally. Because many of the things you consume pass into your breast milk, it's important to pay attention to what might cause harm to your little one. If you want to use marshmallow root while breastfeeding, speak with your doctor about whether it's safe for you and your baby.

Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow, or Althea officinalis, is an herb that's been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. One of the most common uses in ancient times was as a salve for inflamed skin. When the leaves and root are mixed with water, a gel substance forms. The gel was used as a medicine to coat the throat and stomach to ease inflammation. It was also used to prevent and treat chapped lips. In modern times, marshmallow is sometimes used as a galactagogue, which means that it might increase milk supply. It doesn't work on its own, however. Marshmallow root is usually combined with fenugreek, red clover, alfalfa or blessed thistle to encourage milk production.


Marshmallow root belongs to lactation category C, which means it's considered safe to use while nursing. There have been no adverse reactions reported, so it's likely safe to try if you want to increase your milk supply. However, if you're having a hard time producing enough breast milk, there are other ways to increase your supply, as well. Feed your baby on a regular basis because the sucking action encourages your body to make more milk. Let your infant nurse from both breasts and allow her to end the feeding session rather than ending it for her as additional ways to stimulate milk production.

Using Marshmallow Root

Marshmallow root is available in several forms, but they each work in similar ways and encourage similar results. The dried leaves can be used to make infusions or tinctures. Marshmallow root is also available in creams, ointments and cough syrups. The amount of marshmallow root you should use depends on what form you're using. Read dosing instructions carefully, or ask your doctor what an appropriate dose is for you.


If you're having trouble producing enough milk, speak with your doctor or a lactation consultant before using marshmallow root. Though it's generally considered safe, there are a few instances that warrant careful consideration before using the herb. Marshmallow root can interact with medication you take for diabetes and cause your blood sugar to become too low. The herb can also delay the absorption of certain medications, as well. Tell your doctor about any medications you take to be sure that you won't have a negative reaction to the marshmallow root.

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