Borage Benefits for Breast Milk Production: A Natural Galactagogue

Breastfeeding is one of the most powerful ways to nourish your baby, but maintaining a steady milk supply can be a challenge for many new mothers. While hydration, frequent nursing, and proper rest are the cornerstones of healthy lactation, nature also offers a variety of herbal allies to support breastfeeding—one of the lesser-known yet potent herbs being borage.

Borage (Borago officinalis), also known as starflower, has long been used in traditional herbal medicine to soothe stress, support hormone balance, and enhance lactation. Often overshadowed by more popular galactagogues like fenugreek or fennel, borage has its own impressive nutrient profile and lactation-boosting effects.

In this article, we’ll explore how borage supports breast milk production, its nutritional and hormonal benefits, how to use it safely, and what nursing moms should consider before adding it to their postpartum wellness routine.

What Is Borage?

Borage is a flowering herb native to the Mediterranean but widely grown across North America and Europe. It’s easily recognizable by its striking blue star-shaped flowers and fuzzy stems and leaves. Both the leaves and seeds are used medicinally—the leaves often brewed into tea and the seeds cold-pressed into an oil rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid.

Why Borage May Help Milk Supply

The concept of a galactagogue—a substance that promotes or increases lactation—has roots in many cultures. Borage fits the profile for several reasons:

1. Hormonal Support Through GLA

Borage seed oil contains a high concentration of GLA, which has been linked to hormonal balance. GLA supports the production of prostaglandins—compounds involved in regulating inflammation, stress response, and reproductive hormones. Some studies suggest that balancing these hormones may support the complex neuroendocrine mechanisms that influence milk production.

2. Anti-Stress and Anti-Anxiety Effects

Stress is one of the most common reasons for a sudden drop in breast milk supply. Traditionally, borage tea was consumed to “gladden the heart” and relieve melancholy. Though more scientific research is needed, anecdotal reports and herbal literature suggest borage has a gentle calming effect on the nervous system—something many new moms can benefit from.

3. Mild Diuretic and Detox Support

Postpartum fluid retention and sluggish elimination can affect overall health and energy. Borage acts as a mild diuretic and may help flush toxins and support kidney function without disrupting electrolytes. A healthier, well-regulated system can lead to more consistent lactation patterns.

Other Nutritional Benefits of Borage

In addition to its lactation support, borage also provides:

• Calcium & Magnesium: Important for nervous system health and muscle recovery
• Vitamin C: Supports tissue repair and immune strength
• B-complex vitamins: Help restore energy and reduce postpartum fatigue
• Flavonoids: Offer antioxidant support for inflammation and skin recovery

When used in tea form, borage leaves provide a gentle nutrient infusion—especially helpful in the fourth trimester when many women struggle to meet their nutritional needs.

How to Use Borage While Breastfeeding

1. Borage Tea (Infusion)

This is the most common traditional method of using borage for breastfeeding support.

Recipe: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried borage leaves in 8 oz of hot water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and drink 1–2 cups per day. You may combine with other lactation-friendly herbs like nettle or alfalfa for a synergistic blend.

2. Borage Seed Oil Capsules

These provide concentrated GLA, which may be helpful for hormonal balance. However, dosing should be conservative and monitored, especially while breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage: 500 mg of borage seed oil daily with food. Avoid high doses unless advised by a healthcare professional.

3. Culinary Use

Fresh borage leaves (when young and tender) can be added to salads, smoothies, or soups. The blue flowers are also edible and often used as a garnish.

Is Borage Safe While Breastfeeding?

Generally, moderate use of dried borage leaf as a tea is considered safe during lactation. However, borage contains a small amount of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), compounds that can be toxic to the liver in large amounts. For this reason, long-term or excessive use is not recommended, and internal use of the essential oil should be avoided altogether.

Look for PA-free certified borage products whenever possible, especially if you plan to use them regularly.

When to Avoid Borage

• If you have liver disease or a history of liver issues
• If you are on blood thinners or medications processed by the liver
• If you’re allergic to plants in the Boraginaceae family
• If you’re unsure—always consult your lactation consultant or herbalist

Pairing Borage with Other Lactation Herbs

While borage has a lot to offer, it works well when combined with other proven galactagogues like:

• Fenugreek: Classic lactation support herb, often taken as a tea or capsule
• Blessed Thistle: Often paired with fenugreek for hormonal support
• Goat’s Rue: Believed to stimulate development of mammary tissue
• Alfalfa: A mineral-rich herb that supports long-term milk production

Final Thoughts

If you're navigating the ups and downs of breastfeeding, know that you're not alone—and you have options. While every body and every baby is different, incorporating gentle, nutrient-rich herbs like borage may help support your milk supply naturally. Whether you choose to sip it as a tea or take it as a supplement, borage deserves a spot in your herbal toolkit.

As always, listen to your body and consult a qualified lactation consultant or naturopath before beginning any new supplement regimen. Herbs can be powerful allies—but they work best when used with care, awareness, and intention.

Explore more breastfeeding-friendly herbs and teas in our Herbal Tea Collection or visit the Tea Thyme blog for natural postpartum wellness tips.