Is Garlic compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Garlic?

Garlic

September 10, 2015 (Very Low Risk)

The bulb of this plant is originally from Asia which is widely used over the world as condiment, food and therapeutic mean, either systemically or locally. It contains sulfoxides (Alin), thiosulfinate (Allicin), polysaccharides, amino acids, vitamins, mineral salts and prostaglandins.
Alleged properties (some proven): hypolipemiant, vasodilator, anticoagulant, antioxidant, antimicrobial.
Indications based on the Commission E of the German Ministry of Health: Arteriosclerosis, Hyperlipidemia, Hypertension.
It may cause generalized and contact allergies, as well as local burns (avoid applying it on the nipple). It has a platelet anti-aggregation effect which is a reason to avoid any abuse by mothers with hemorrhagic disorders. Also, garlic may compete the liver metabolism of some anti-HIV medication causing a decrease in effectiveness.

One of the most used herbs during breastfeeding in many regions of the world. Some cultures use it as a galactagogue but such effect has not been proven.

Its odor and flavor is transmitted through the breast milk which may later induce the infant to longer suction periods that can condition to a better adaptation of several flavors at the introduction of complementary foods.
It is not responsible for the appearance of colicky pain in infants.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Garlic since it is relatively safe.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Writings

  • Allium Sativum (Latin, botanical name)
  • Bulbus Allii Sativi (Latin, botanical name)
  • Porvium sativum (Latin, botanical name)
  • σκόρδο (Greek)
  • ثوم (Arabic)
  • Чеснок (Cyrillic)
  • 大蒜 (Chinese)
  • ニンニク (Japanese)

Drug trade names

References

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  3. Hepper PG, Wells DL, Dornan JC, Lynch C. Long-term flavor recognition in humans with prenatal garlic experience. Dev Psychobiol. 2013Abstract
  4. Sim TF, Sherriff J, Hattingh HL, Parsons R, Tee LB. The use of herbal medicines during breastfeeding: a population-based survey in Western Australia. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  5. The Royal Women’s Hospital Victoria Australia. Herbal and Traditional Medicines in Breasfeeding. Fact Sheet. 2013 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
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  15. Rafaat M, Leung AK. Garlic burns. Pediatr Dermatol. 2000Abstract
  16. WHO. World Health Organization. Geneva. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants. Volume I. WHO monographs 1999 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
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  20. Mennella JA, Beauchamp GK. The effects of repeated exposure to garlic-flavored milk on the nursling's behavior. Pediatr Res. 1993Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  21. Mennella JA, Beauchamp GK. Maternal diet alters the sensory qualities of human milk and the nursling's behavior. Pediatrics. 1991Abstract