Is Licorice Good for Breastfeeding? What You Need to Know
Posted on May 27, 2026
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Exactly Is Licorice Root?
- Does Licorice Increase Milk Supply?
- Traditional Chinese Medicine and Postpartum Recovery
- Potential Benefits for Breastfeeding Mothers
- Understanding the Risks and Side Effects
- The Difference Between Black and Red Licorice
- What is DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice)?
- Action Steps for Safe Consumption
- Better Alternatives for Milk Supply
- When to See a Lactation Consultant
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
If you have found yourself staring at a bag of black licorice or wondering if that herbal tea in your cupboard is safe, you are not alone. Many new parents look to traditional herbs to help navigate the ups and downs of the postpartum period. Whether you are craving a sweet treat or searching for ways to support your milk supply, understanding what you consume is vital for your peace of mind.
At Milky Mama, we believe in empowering you with clinical knowledge and compassionate support. We know that breastfeeding is a journey filled with questions, and we are here to provide the answers you need. In this post, we will explore the benefits, risks, and scientific reality of using licorice while nursing.
While licorice has a long history in herbal medicine across the globe, its impact on breastfeeding is complex and depends heavily on how much you consume. This article will help you decide if this herb has a place in your breastfeeding routine or if you should reach for a different snack instead.
What Exactly Is Licorice Root?
Licorice comes from the root of a plant known scientifically as Glycyrrhiza glabra. This perennial herb is native to parts of Europe and Asia. The name itself comes from ancient Greek words meaning "sweet root."
The root contains a compound called glycyrrhizin. This natural substance is roughly 50 times sweeter than table sugar. Because of this intense sweetness, it has been used for centuries in candies, beverages, and traditional medicines.
In historical contexts, licorice was often used to soothe respiratory issues like coughs or to help with digestive discomfort. In many cultures, it is also considered a galactagogue. A galactagogue is a substance that may help increase a mother's milk supply. However, as we look closer at the science, the relationship between licorice and lactation becomes a bit more complicated.
Does Licorice Increase Milk Supply?
The most common reason breastfeeding parents ask about licorice is to find out if it will help them produce more milk. While some traditional herbal blends include licorice root, the scientific evidence is mixed.
For a substance to be a true galactagogue, it typically needs to support the hormones responsible for milk production. The two main hormones involved are oxytocin, which helps with the "let-down" (the release of milk from the breast), and prolactin, which tells your body to make more milk.
The Prolactin Connection
Interestingly, some studies suggest that licorice might actually lower the levels of prolactin in your blood. Prolactin is the essential "milk-making" hormone. If prolactin levels drop, it could potentially lead to a decrease in milk production, especially in the early weeks of breastfeeding when your supply is still being established.
Because of this potential to lower prolactin, many certified lactation consultants recommend being very cautious with licorice. If you are struggling with a low milk supply, adding large amounts of licorice to your diet might not be the best first step.
Why It Appears in Lactation Teas
You might wonder why licorice is included in some lactation drink mixes if it can lower prolactin. In many traditional herbal formulas, licorice is used as a "harmonizer." This means it is added in small amounts to help balance the flavor of other bitter herbs or to soothe the digestive system.
When used in these tiny, blended amounts, it likely doesn't have a strong enough effect to drop your prolactin levels significantly. However, it is always a good idea to look at the total amount of herbs you are consuming throughout the day.
Key Takeaway: While licorice is often found in traditional milk-boosting blends, clinical evidence suggests it may actually lower prolactin levels, which could potentially decrease milk supply if taken in large amounts.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Postpartum Recovery
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), licorice root is known as "Gan Cao." It is one of the most frequently used herbs in the entire TCM pharmacopeia. In this tradition, it is used very differently than it is in Western medicine.
Harmonizing the Body
In TCM, licorice is considered a "neutral" herb. This means it is neither too cooling nor too warming for the body. It is often used to help the body absorb other nutrients and to "harmonize" different herbs within a single formula. For a postpartum mother, TCM practitioners may use it to help replenish "Qi" (energy) and support the digestive system after the physical toll of childbirth.
Clearing "Toxic Heat"
TCM also uses licorice to clear what is called "toxic heat." In modern terms, this often relates to inflammation or infection. Some practitioners believe that clearing this heat can help with issues like clogged milk ducts or mastitis (an infection in the breast tissue).
By reducing inflammation and supporting the flow of energy, licorice is sometimes thought to indirectly help milk flow. However, this is a very different approach than simply taking a supplement to "make more milk." It focuses on the overall balance of the mother's body.
Potential Benefits for Breastfeeding Mothers
While the impact on milk supply is debated, licorice may offer other benefits that can make the breastfeeding journey a little easier for some parents.
- Digestive Support: Licorice is well-known for its ability to soothe the lining of the stomach. Many breastfeeding moms experience heartburn or indigestion due to hormonal shifts or dietary changes. Licorice may help protect the mucous membranes in the gut.
- Immune Support: Some research suggests that the compounds in licorice have antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Staying healthy is a top priority when you are caring for a newborn, and licorice might offer a small boost to your natural defenses.
- Oral Health: Believe it or not, chewing on licorice root has been a traditional way to keep teeth and gums clean. Since pregnancy and the postpartum period can sometimes affect dental health due to mineral shifts, this is an interesting traditional use.
Understanding the Risks and Side Effects
Even though licorice is a natural plant, it can be very potent. For breastfeeding parents, there are several safety concerns to keep in mind.
High Blood Pressure and Fluid Retention
The glycyrrhizin in licorice can affect how your kidneys handle sodium and potassium. For some people, consuming too much licorice can lead to high blood pressure (hypertension) and significant water retention (edema).
If you already had issues with blood pressure during pregnancy, such as gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, you should be especially careful. High blood pressure can be dangerous and needs to be monitored by a healthcare professional.
Low Potassium Levels
Excessive licorice intake can cause your body to lose too much potassium. This condition is called hypokalemia. Symptoms can include muscle weakness, fatigue, and even heart rhythm issues. Because breastfeeding already places high nutritional demands on your body, keeping your electrolytes in balance is crucial.
Effects on the Baby
When you consume licorice, some of its components can pass into your breast milk. There have been reported cases where infants became lethargic or weak after their mothers consumed very large amounts of herbal teas containing licorice.
One specific case involved a mother drinking more than two liters of a concentrated herbal tea blend daily. Her infant showed signs of being overly sleepy and had a weak suck. Once the mother stopped drinking the tea, the baby’s symptoms cleared up within a day or two. This reminds us that while a little bit might be fine, "more" is not always "better."
The Difference Between Black and Red Licorice
It is important to distinguish between the herbal root and the candy you find in the grocery store aisle. Not all "licorice" is created equal.
Red Licorice
Most red "licorice" candy sold in the United States contains no actual licorice root. It is typically flavored with fruit extracts and is essentially just a sugary snack. While it won't help or hurt your milk supply, the high sugar content isn't ideal for a balanced postpartum diet.
Black Licorice
Traditional black licorice candy often does contain real licorice extract. If you eat a few pieces occasionally, it is unlikely to cause issues. However, the FDA has issued warnings that eating large amounts of black licorice daily (about two ounces a day for two weeks) can cause heart rhythm problems in certain people.
Anise and Fennel
Many foods that taste like licorice—such as pizzelle cookies or certain teas—are actually flavored with anise or fennel. These plants contain a compound called anethole, which gives them that familiar black-jelly-bean flavor. While anise and fennel are also traditional galactagogues, they are different plants than licorice root and have their own sets of safety profiles.
What is DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice)?
If you are looking at lactation supplements for digestive issues, you might see the term "DGL." This stands for deglycyrrhizinated licorice.
In DGL products, the glycyrrhizin has been removed. This is the part of the plant responsible for the blood pressure and potassium issues. For many people, DGL is a much safer way to get the digestive benefits of the plant without the risky side effects. However, there is still very little research on how DGL specifically affects breastfeeding, so it is best to discuss it with your doctor or a certified lactation consultant first.
Action Steps for Safe Consumption
If you enjoy the taste of licorice or want to use it for health reasons, here is how to do so safely:
- Stick to Food Amounts: Using licorice as a minor ingredient in a recipe or enjoying an occasional piece of candy is generally considered safe.
- Monitor Your Blood Pressure: If you decide to drink licorice tea regularly, keep an eye on your blood pressure. If you notice it creeping up, stop the tea and call your provider.
- Watch Your Baby: Always observe your baby for changes in behavior. If they seem unusually sleepy, are difficult to wake for feeds, or have a weak suck, look at your intake of supplements and herbs.
- Consult a Professional: Before starting any herbal supplement, talk to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). They can provide evidence-based guidance tailored to your specific health history.
Better Alternatives for Milk Supply
If your goal is to support your milk supply, there are many other options that have a more consistent track record of safety and effectiveness than licorice.
Focus on Nutrition and Hydration
Your body needs calories and water to produce milk. Making sure you are eating enough protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates is the foundation of a good supply.
Rolled oats for breastfeeding are one of the most famous and safest foods for breastfeeding. They are rich in iron and fiber, and many moms find that a daily bowl of oatmeal helps them feel more energetic and supported in their lactation goals.
Supportive Lactation Products
At Milky Mama, we focus on ingredients that are generally recognized as safe and effective for nursing parents. Our products are designed to be a delicious and convenient way to add lactation-supporting nutrients to your day.
Our lactation snacks collection includes Emergency Brownies, a favorite for many, packed with oats, brewer's yeast, and flaxseed. If you are looking for hydration, our Pumpin Punch™ and Milky Melon™ drinks provide essential fluids alongside supportive ingredients to help you stay hydrated and nourished.
Hand Expression and Power Pumping
Sometimes, the best way to increase supply isn't through an herb at all, but through increased milk removal. Since milk production works on a supply-and-demand basis, removing milk more frequently tells your body to make more.
Adding a power pumping routine once a day—where you pump for 20 minutes, rest for 10, pump for 10, rest for 10, and pump for 10—can mimic a baby's cluster feeding and signal your body to ramp up production.
When to See a Lactation Consultant
If you are worried about your milk supply or your baby's weight gain, please don't struggle alone. While herbs like licorice might seem like an easy fix, they don't address the root cause of breastfeeding challenges.
A lactation consultant can help you check your baby's latch, ensure they are transferring milk effectively, and create a plan that works for your unique situation. They can also help you navigate the world of herbal supplements safely.
Key Takeaway: Prioritize evidence-based methods like frequent milk removal and balanced nutrition before turning to potent medicinal herbs like licorice root.
Conclusion
So, is licorice good for breastfeeding? The answer is a bit of a "maybe." While it can offer some digestive comfort and has a place in traditional medicine, the risk of it lowering your prolactin or affecting your blood pressure means it should be used with caution.
If you love the flavor, an occasional treat is likely fine. But if you are looking for a reliable way to boost your supply, there are safer and more effective paths to take.
- Limit intake to small food amounts.
- Avoid concentrated supplements unless directed by a professional.
- Focus on hydration and proven lactation-support foods like oats.
Your well-being and your baby's health are the most important things. We are here to support you every step of the way with products, online breastfeeding classes, and education you can trust. If you are looking for a delicious way to support your journey, why not try one of our signature lactation treats today?
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.
FAQ
Can I drink licorice tea every day while breastfeeding?
It is best to limit licorice tea to no more than one cup per day, and even then, you should not drink it every day for long periods. Because licorice can affect your blood pressure and potassium levels, consistent daily use can lead to health issues for you or lethargy in your baby. Always monitor your body's response and talk to your doctor if you have a history of heart or kidney issues.
Does licorice root pass into breast milk?
Yes, certain compounds found in licorice root, including glycyrrhizin, can pass through your breast milk to your baby. While small amounts are generally considered safe, excessive intake by the mother has been linked to infant lethargy and poor feeding. If you notice your baby is unusually sleepy or not sucking well, you should reduce your intake and consult a healthcare provider.
Is DGL safer than regular licorice for nursing moms?
DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is often considered safer regarding blood pressure and potassium levels because the most potent compound has been removed. It is frequently used for heartburn and indigestion, which are common postpartum complaints. However, there is still very little clinical research on DGL's effect on lactation, so it is best used under the guidance of a professional.
Can licorice really decrease my milk supply?
Yes, some scientific studies have shown that licorice can lower serum prolactin levels, which is the primary hormone responsible for milk production. If your prolactin levels drop significantly, your body may produce less milk. If you are already concerned about a low supply, it is usually recommended to avoid medicinal amounts of licorice to prevent further issues.
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