Is Ginger Tea Good While Breastfeeding?

Posted on May 25, 2026

Introduction
The Traditional Roots of Ginger in Postpartum Care
The Science: Does Ginger Increase Milk Supply?
Benefits of Ginger Beyond Milk Production
How to Safely Enjoy Ginger Tea While Nursing
Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Holistic Ways to Support Your Supply
Comparison: Ginger vs. Other Galactagogues
Practical Tips for Using Ginger Safely
Fun Fact: Breastfeeding Law and Comfort
Representation and Support
Conclusion
FAQ

Introduction

Is ginger tea good while breastfeeding? For most breastfeeding parents, ginger tea is generally safe in moderation and may be helpful, especially in the early postpartum period, but it is not a magic fix and there are a few cautions. At Milky Mama, we believe education is key to a confident journey. Our Certified Lactation Consultant Breastfeeding Help and Breastfeeding 101 course provide the clinical facts and support you deserve. This article explores the science and traditional roots of ginger to help you decide if it belongs in your pantry.

Quick Answer: Yes, ginger tea is generally safe while breastfeeding in moderation. It may support early postpartum milk volume and digestion, but check with a provider if you have reflux or gallstones, take blood thinners, or notice your baby is sensitive to the flavor or heat.

The Traditional Roots of Ginger in Postpartum Care

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine for thousands of years. In many cultures, particularly in Southeast Asia, the postpartum period requires "warming" herbs to help the body heal. Ginger is considered the ultimate warming herb.

In Thailand, new mothers traditionally consume ginger-rich foods immediately after delivery to stimulate circulation and encourage milk to "come in." This wisdom aligns with a holistic approach to recovery that includes rest, hydration, and nutrient-dense foods—basic needs that must be met for herbal support to work effectively.

The Science: Does Ginger Increase Milk Supply?

In lactation, substances that help increase milk supply are called "galactagogues." While large-scale human trials are still needed, existing research on ginger is encouraging, particularly for the first few days after birth.

What the Research Says About Volume

A frequently cited study in Thailand compared new mothers taking a dried ginger supplement to those taking a placebo. By the third day after birth, the mothers taking ginger had a significantly higher milk volume. Specifically, the ginger group produced about 191 mL in 24 hours, compared to 135 mL in the placebo group. This suggests ginger is most helpful during the transition from colostrum to mature milk in days 1–3.

Ginger and the "Let-Down" Reflex

Ginger may also improve milk flow. As a vasodilator, ginger helps relax and widen blood vessels. Healthy circulation makes it easier for oxytocin—the hormone responsible for the "let-down" reflex—to travel to the breast tissue, helping your body respond more efficiently to your baby or a pump.

Delivery Method and Effectiveness

Some research indicates ginger may be more effective for those who had a vaginal delivery compared to a C-section, possibly due to how the body recovers from different types of birth stress. However, ginger still offers recovery benefits for every birthing person regardless of delivery method.

Key Takeaway: Ginger shows the most promise for boosting milk volume in the very early days (days 1–3) after birth by supporting circulation and hormonal flow.

Benefits of Ginger Beyond Milk Production

Breastfeeding is a whole-body experience. Ginger supports the person making the milk by addressing common postpartum physical challenges.

Soothing Postpartum Digestion

Hormonal shifts and physical recovery can lead to digestive sluggishness. Ginger is world-renowned for its ability to soothe the digestive tract, reducing gas, bloating, and that "heavy" feeling after eating.

Boosting Maternal Immunity

Sleep deprivation can strain your immune system. Ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help you stay healthy while caring for your newborn.

Relieving Breast Pain and Engorgement

In some clinical trials, warm ginger compresses were more effective at relieving the pain and swelling of engorgement than plain warm compresses. The ginger stimulates local circulation and reduces inflammation directly in the breast tissue.

Quick Summary:

Ginger has a long history as a "warming" herb in traditional Southeast Asian postpartum care.

Research shows ginger can significantly boost milk volume during the transition to mature milk in days 1–3.

It supports digestion and immunity but should be consumed in moderation to avoid heartburn.

Safety first: consult your doctor if you take blood thinners or have specific medical conditions.

Supply and demand—frequent milk removal—remains the primary driver of production.

How to Safely Enjoy Ginger Tea While Nursing

Ginger is "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) by the FDA, but how you consume it matters.

Choosing the Right Tea Blend

When shopping, look for high-quality, organic ginger root.

Pure Ginger Tea: Naturally caffeine-free and made solely from dried root.
Ginger and Lemon: Soothing for sore throats or upset stomachs.
Lactation Blends: Ready-made options like our Milky Melon™ are convenient to keep on hand.

Fresh Ginger vs. Store-Bought Bags

Fresh ginger root is often more potent than pre-packaged bags. To make your own:

Peel and thinly slice or grate a one-inch piece of fresh ginger.
Simmer in two cups of water for 10 minutes.
Strain and add honey or lemon if desired.

Timing and Moderation

Most experts recommend 1 to 2 cups per day. Enjoying your tea after a nursing session ensures any change in milk flavor is subtle.

Action List for Using Ginger:

Start with one cup daily to monitor digestive changes.

Choose organic, pure ginger root.

For engorgement, ensure compresses are warm, not scalding.

Combine with hydration like our Pumpin Punch™.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations

"Natural" does not mean "without effect." Herbs are powerful, and ginger is no exception.

Maternal Side Effects

In high doses, ginger may cause:

Heartburn or acid reflux
Mouth or throat irritation
Stomach upset or diarrhea

If you have a history of gallstones or severe reflux, use ginger sparingly, as it stimulates bile and stomach acid production.

Monitoring Your Baby’s Reaction

Aromatic compounds from ginger can pass into breast milk. Watch your baby for:

Unusual fussiness or irritability after feeding.
Increased gas or tummy troubles.
Refusing the breast (though rare).

Medical Precautions and Blood Thinning

Ginger has mild anti-coagulant properties. If you experienced a significant postpartum hemorrhage or take blood-thinning medications like warfarin, you must speak with your healthcare provider before adding ginger to your diet.

Important: Seek medical advice if you have a history of postpartum hemorrhage, take blood-thinning medications like warfarin, have severe reflux, or gallstones. Additionally, monitor your baby for increased fussiness or gas.

Consult with your healthcare provider or a Certified Lactation Consultant Breastfeeding Help if you have concerns regarding your health history.

Disclaimer: This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Holistic Ways to Support Your Supply

Supplements are "support players." The "lead actor" in milk production is the physiological law of supply and demand.

The Foundation of Supply and Demand

If milk is not removed frequently, supply is unlikely to increase. To maximize results:

Nurse or pump 8–12 times in 24 hours. See our How to Pump to Boost Milk Supply guide.
Ensure a deep latch. Use our How Do You Know You Have a Good Latch Breastfeeding? guide for help.
Practice skin-to-skin contact to boost oxytocin.

Hydration and Nutrition

Your body needs fuel to make milk. Adding a treat like our Emergency Lactation Brownies makes staying nourished easier. Focus on real foods like oats, flaxseed, and brewer's yeast to meet high energy demands.

Managing Stress

Stress produces adrenaline, which can block the let-down reflex. If sipping warm ginger tea helps you take five minutes to breathe, that relaxation may help your milk flow better.

Comparison: Ginger vs. Other Galactagogues

Every body responds differently to supplements. Here is how ginger compares to other popular options:

Galactagogue	Main Use / Benefits
Ginger	Best for early postpartum jumpstarts and digestive support.
Moringa (Malunggay)	Nutrient-dense "superfood" for increasing volume over time; found in Milk Goddess™.
Alfalfa	Source of Vitamin K and antioxidants; gently supports supply; found in Lady Leche™.
Nettle	Enriches milk mineral content and supports kidney health.

Practical Tips for Using Ginger Safely

Check the Label: Avoid ginger blends containing supply-decreasing herbs like large amounts of sage or peppermint.
Keep it Moderate: Stick to 1–3 cups of tea daily.
Watch the Sugar: Avoid ginger ales or sodas loaded with high-fructose corn syrup.
Talk to an IBCLC: If struggling with supply, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant can help identify the root cause.

Fun Fact: Breastfeeding Law and Comfort

Breastfeeding in public—covered or uncovered—is legal in all 50 states. Whether you are sipping ginger tea at a café or nursing in a park, you have the legal right to be there.

Representation and Support

Breastfeeding looks different for everyone. Whether you are exclusively pumping, chestfeeding, or supplementally nursing, you are part of a community that values your effort. For encouragement between feedings, join The Official Milky Mama Lactation Support Group on Facebook.

Conclusion

Is ginger tea good while breastfeeding? For most, yes. It offers gentle, time-tested support for milk supply in the first few days while providing digestive and immune benefits. While it isn't a "magic cure" that replaces frequent milk removal, it is a wonderful tool for your nursing toolkit.

Ginger may boost milk volume in the early postpartum period.
It supports circulation and a better let-down reflex.
It helps remedy postpartum nausea and digestive upset.

Explore our range of lactation treats and herbal supplements, from Pumping Queen™ capsules to our hydrating Lactation LeMOOnade™, to find the nourishment you need to thrive.

"The journey of breastfeeding is as much about nourishing the parent as it is about feeding the baby. Take the time to sip your tea, breathe deeply, and trust your body."

FAQ

Does ginger tea make breast milk taste spicy for the baby?

While ginger has a strong flavor, only a small amount of the aromatic compounds pass into the breast milk. Most babies do not seem to mind the subtle change in taste, though particularly sensitive infants might notice. If your baby seems fussy or refuses to latch after you drink ginger tea, you might want to reduce the strength of your brew.

How much ginger tea can I drink daily while breastfeeding?

Most lactation experts and healthcare providers suggest staying within a moderate range of 1 to 2 cups per day. Consuming excessive amounts—more than 4 cups—may lead to maternal heartburn or digestive upset for the baby. It is always best to start with a small amount and see how your body and your baby respond.

Can I drink ginger tea if I had a C-section?

Yes, ginger tea is generally safe after a C-section and may even help with post-surgical gas and nausea. However, some studies suggest that ginger's direct effect on milk volume might be slightly less pronounced in C-section births compared to vaginal births. Always check with your doctor first, especially if you are taking any post-operative medications.

Will ginger tea help with my baby's colic or gas?

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