The study took as its basis the theory that ‘folk remedies’ are still in prevalent use in the West, and that the anecdotal evidence behind them may aid a new enthusiasm in the medical recommendation of such products. An online questionnaire was sent out to certified lactation consultants working in affiliation with medical centres in the US. Of the 124 responses received, 69% expressed their familiarity with such remedies, and 65% said they recommended at least one type of ‘folk’ supplement to their patients. The most common recommendations regarded the use of herbal remedies, with fenugreek being the most popular (57 responses). Other popular supplements were blessed thistle (28 responses) and cabbage leaves (36 responses); thought to be beneficial for lactation and pain relief, respectively. It seems that these supplements are frequently recommended, both between mothers and from industry professionals.
The leaders of the study stated that there is little empirical evidence to back up the use of such ‘folk remedies’. However, they were keen to make it clear that there is no risk factor either, so would not want to prevent their use where they are found to be helpful to mother and baby. The scientists claim that the successful use of traditional wellness practices indicates a compelling direction for scientific research. If such helpful methods are backed up by scientific evidence and more widely promoted, the wellbeing of breastfeeding women everywhere could benefit.