Is Barley Tea Good for Breastfeeding? A Complete Guide to Supply
Posted on May 16, 2026
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is Barley Tea?
- Is Barley Tea Good for Breastfeeding?
- The Science of Barley and Lactation
- Barley Tea vs. Beer: Debunking the Myth
- Health Benefits Beyond Milk Supply
- How to Prepare Barley Tea at Home
- Important Safety Considerations
- Maximizing Your Milk Supply: The Big Picture
- Milky Mama’s Approach to Lactation
- When to Seek Professional Help
- Summary of Action Steps
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
If you are currently navigating the middle-of-the-night nursing sessions or the constant "is my baby getting enough?" internal dialogue, you are likely looking for any natural tool to help. You may have heard through a friend or a social media group that certain teas can help boost your milk production. One specific drink that often comes up in these conversations is barley tea. At Milky Mama, we know that breastfeeding is a journey that requires the right support, and understanding the science behind what you consume is the first step toward feeling empowered.
Barley tea, a staple in many East Asian cultures, is frequently praised for its refreshing taste and its potential as a galactagogue. A galactagogue is simply a substance that may help increase breast milk production. This post will cover everything you need to know about barley tea, including why it works, how it compares to other remedies, and the safest ways to incorporate it into your routine. If you want a deeper look at milk production itself, our How Does Breast Milk Supply Work? A Guide to Lactation is a helpful companion. Our goal is to provide you with the clinical knowledge you need to nourish your baby with confidence.
What is Barley Tea?
Barley tea is not a "true" tea in the sense that it does not come from the Camellia sinensis plant. Instead, it is an infusion, often called a tisane, made from roasted barley grains. In Japan, it is known as mugicha, while in Korea, it is called boricha. It has a toasty, nutty, and slightly bitter flavor that many people find comforting.
Unlike many other teas, barley tea is naturally caffeine-free. This makes it an excellent choice for breastfeeding parents who are trying to limit their caffeine intake to help their babies (and themselves) sleep better. It can be served hot during the winter months or chilled as a hydrating summer beverage. Because it is made from a whole grain, it carries several nutritional benefits that extend beyond just hydration.
Is Barley Tea Good for Breastfeeding?
The short answer is yes, barley tea is generally considered a safe and supportive option for most breastfeeding parents. While it is not a "magic cure" for low milk supply, it contains specific components that align with how the body produces milk. Many cultures have used barley-based drinks for centuries to support new mothers during the postpartum period.
Beyond its potential to help with milk volume, barley tea is a fantastic way to stay hydrated. Since breast milk is roughly 87% water, your fluid intake is vital. Drinking plain water can sometimes feel like a chore, and barley tea offers a flavorful, sugar-free alternative that encourages you to drink more throughout the day.
The Science of Barley and Lactation
To understand why barley tea is often recommended by lactation professionals, we have to look at its chemical makeup. The primary reason barley is linked to milk production is a specific type of complex sugar called beta-glucan.
Understanding Beta-Glucan
Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide found in the cell walls of certain grains like barley and oats. Research suggests that beta-glucan can stimulate the pituitary gland to release more prolactin. Prolactin is the hormone responsible for telling your mammary glands to produce milk. By supporting healthy prolactin levels, barley may help your body maintain a consistent milk supply.
Barley vs. Oats
You may have heard that eating a bowl of oatmeal is great for breastfeeding. This is true for the same reason: oats are also high in beta-glucan. However, barley actually contains a higher concentration of this polysaccharide than oats do. For a closer look at why oats get so much attention, see our Are Rolled Oats Good for Breastfeeding? What You Need to Know. This makes barley-based beverages like barley tea a potent, yet gentle, option for those looking to support their hormonal milk-making process.
Barley Tea vs. Beer: Debunking the Myth
There is an old myth that suggests drinking a dark beer, like a Guinness, can help "bring in the milk." While there is a tiny bit of truth at the core of this legend, the advice itself is outdated and potentially counterproductive. The truth is that the barley and brewer’s yeast in the beer are what provide the potential benefit—not the alcohol.
The Problem with Alcohol
Alcohol can actually interfere with your milk supply. It inhibits the release of oxytocin, which is the hormone responsible for the "let-down reflex." The let-down reflex is what allows the milk to flow out of the ducts and to your baby. If oxytocin is blocked, the milk stays stuck in the breast, which can lead to frustration for the baby and a decrease in supply over time because the breast isn't being emptied.
The Non-Alcoholic Solution
Barley tea gives you the benefits of the barley grain without the risks associated with alcohol. You get the prolactin-boosting beta-glucans and the hydration your body needs, all while keeping your oxytocin levels where they need to be for a smooth let-down. If you want more easy-to-use options, our Lactation Drink Mixes collection is another convenient place to start.
Health Benefits Beyond Milk Supply
While your primary focus might be on your baby, your own wellness matters just as much. Barley tea offers several health benefits that can help a postpartum body recover and thrive.
- Digestive Support: Barley tea is a natural antacid. Many new parents experience digestive changes after birth, and a warm cup of barley tea can help soothe heartburn and support healthy digestion.
- Antioxidant Properties: This tea is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage. These compounds can support your immune system, which is often taxed during the early months of parenthood.
- Improved Circulation: Some studies suggest that barley tea can help improve blood fluidity. Good circulation is essential for the transport of nutrients and hormones throughout your body, including those needed for milk production.
- Sleep Support: Barley tea contains trace amounts of melatonin and tryptophan. While it won't knock you out like a sleep medication, it may help you feel a bit more relaxed before you head to bed between feedings.
How to Prepare Barley Tea at Home
One of the best things about barley tea is how affordable and easy it is to make. You can find pre-packaged tea bags at most Asian grocery stores or online, but you can also make it from scratch using whole barley grains.
Using Tea Bags (The Simple Way)
- Boil about 2 liters of water.
- Add one or two large barley tea bags.
- Let it simmer for about 5–10 minutes depending on how strong you like the flavor.
- Remove the bags and let the tea cool. You can keep it in a pitcher in the fridge for a refreshing drink throughout the day.
From Scratch (The Traditional Way)
- Take half a cup of raw, unhulled barley (or pearl barley if that is all you have).
- Toast the grains in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking frequently until they are a dark, nutty brown.
- Add the toasted grains to 8 cups of boiling water.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, then strain out the grains.
- Sweeten with a little honey or lemon if desired, though most prefer it plain.
Important Safety Considerations
While barley tea is a wonderful tool for many, it is not for everyone. There are a few situations where you should exercise caution or avoid it entirely.
Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity
Barley is a gluten-containing grain. If you have Celiac disease or a non-celiac gluten sensitivity, you should avoid barley tea. Consuming gluten when you have an intolerance can cause inflammation and digestive distress, which is the last thing you need when you are trying to nourish a baby.
Moderate Your Intake
While barley tea is healthy, balance is key. Drinking excessive amounts of any single herbal infusion isn't recommended. Aim for 1–3 cups a day as part of a varied diet. If you notice any unusual changes in your baby’s digestion or behavior after you start drinking it, it is always a good idea to pause and consult with your pediatrician.
Maximizing Your Milk Supply: The Big Picture
It is important to remember that no tea, food, or supplement can replace the most basic rule of breastfeeding: supply and demand. Your body makes milk based on how much milk is removed.
The Supply and Demand Rule
Every time your baby nurses or you pump, you are sending a signal to your brain to make more milk. If you drink barley tea but go long stretches without removing milk, your supply will likely still decrease. To see the best results from galactagogues like barley, you should:
- Nurse or pump frequently (every 2–3 hours for newborns).
- Ensure a deep, comfortable good latch breastfeeding guide to effectively empty the breast.
- Practice skin-to-skin contact, which boosts the oxytocin needed for let-down.
Identifying a True Low Supply
Sometimes, parents worry about their supply when it is actually perfectly normal. It is common for breasts to feel "softer" after the first few weeks, or for babies to go through "cluster feeding" stages where they want to eat every hour. This doesn't always mean your supply is low; it usually means your baby is growing! If your baby is having 6+ wet diapers a day and gaining weight well, your supply is likely right where it needs to be. If you want a clearer breakdown of the signs, our Understanding and Managing Low Milk Supply guide can help.
Milky Mama’s Approach to Lactation
At Milky Mama, we believe in a holistic approach to breastfeeding. We understand that life is busy, and you don't always have time to toast barley grains on the stove. That is why we offer a variety of lactation supplements to help support your journey.
Our herbal lactation supplements, such as Pumping Queen, are crafted with carefully selected ingredients to support the hormones involved in milk production.
We also offer delicious lactation treats like our Emergency Lactation Brownies, which are packed with oats and other supportive ingredients for the busy parent on the go.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.
We also offer virtual lactation consultations and online breastfeeding classes like Breastfeeding 101. Sometimes, the best way to increase supply isn't a food at all—it's a small adjustment to your pumping schedule or your baby’s latch that only a professional can help you identify.
When to Seek Professional Help
While trying home remedies like barley tea is a great first step, some challenges require a deeper look. You should reach out to a Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) if:
- Nursing is painful or causing nipple damage.
- Your baby is not gaining weight according to their growth curve.
- You are experiencing signs of a clogged duct or mastitis (pain, redness, fever).
- You feel overwhelmed, anxious, or discouraged about your feeding journey.
If that sounds familiar, our Certified Lactation Consultant Breastfeeding Help page is there when you need personalized guidance. You don't have to struggle in silence. Seeking help is a sign of strength and a commitment to your baby’s well-being.
Summary of Action Steps
If you are ready to try barley tea to support your breastfeeding goals, here is a quick roadmap:
- Find Your Source: Buy high-quality roasted barley or tea bags from a reputable source.
- Stay Consistent: Try drinking 1–2 cups a day for a week to see if you notice a difference in your hydration or supply.
- Prioritize Removal: Keep nursing or pumping regularly to ensure the "supply and demand" signals are strong.
- Watch Your Baby: Monitor your baby’s diapers and weight to ensure they are getting what they need.
- Listen to Your Body: If you feel better and more hydrated, the tea is doing its job! For more everyday support, explore our Lactation Snacks collection.
Conclusion
Barley tea is a time-tested, science-backed, and delicious way to support your lactation journey. By harnessing the power of beta-glucans to support prolactin levels, it offers a natural boost that fits easily into a busy lifestyle. Remember that every drop counts, and taking care of your own hydration and nutrition is one of the best things you can do for your baby.
"Breastfeeding is a journey of both the heart and the body. Giving yourself the grace to try new things and the support to overcome challenges is what makes you an amazing parent."
Whether you are sipping a cold glass of mugicha or enjoying one of our Milky Mama lactation treats, know that you are doing an incredible job. If you need more personalized support or want to explore our full range of lactation products, we are here for you every step of the way.
FAQ
Does barley tea contain caffeine?
No, pure roasted barley tea is naturally caffeine-free. This makes it a safe option for breastfeeding parents who want to stay hydrated without the stimulating effects of caffeine, which can sometimes make babies fussy or interfere with their sleep patterns.
How much barley tea should I drink to increase milk supply?
Most lactation experts suggest starting with 1 to 3 cups per day. While there is no "magic number," drinking it consistently as part of a well-balanced diet and staying properly hydrated is the best way to see a potential boost in your milk production.
Can I drink barley tea if I am pregnant?
While barley is a common food, some traditional practices suggest limiting concentrated barley drinks during pregnancy. It is always best to consult with your OB-GYN or midwife before introducing new herbal infusions or significant amounts of barley tea into your prenatal diet.
Will barley tea work if I have Celiac disease?
No, you should not consume barley tea if you have Celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. Barley contains gluten, and even in tea form, it can trigger an adverse reaction. If you need a gluten-free galactagogue, consider other options like Moringa or specific gluten-free lactation supplements.
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