Herbal smoothies are the easiest to make for lactating moms. Try this fenugreek, fennel and moringa herbal recipe.
Hey, new mom, congratulations on the arrival of your baby. It’s that time again when you have to maintain extra self-care and adopt healthier eating habits. A healthy diet is what your delicate body needs to increase breast milk supply for a healthier baby and is a crucial factor in your postpartum recovery journey.
Thinking of the best ways to eat healthy with organic recipes? Herbal lactation smoothies are an easy way you stay nourished during this delicate moment. Herbal lactation smoothies can be a blend of organic seeds, fruits, herbs, cereals, and oils. Experts recommend incorporating lactation smoothies into your daily meals since they’re easy to make and customizable.
You can make a lactation smoothie from organic ingredients such as fenugreek, moringa, almond milk, strawberry, blueberry, groundnuts, and organic yogurt. Today, we will spruce up a new recipe combining the power of fenugreek seeds, fennel, and moringa with bananas and almond milk to create a delicious, nutrient-rich blend for the nursing mom that is you.
What Is Fenugreek?
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Fenugreek, whose scientific name is Trigonella foenum-graecum, is a wonder plant measuring 2–3 feet in height. It traces its origin in Asia, particularly Iran and India. It has green leaves with white flowers that bloom in summer. It produces pods containing small, golden-brown seeds.
For centuries fenugreek has been used as a natural remedy in traditional Chinese medicine to treat different ailments and skin disorders.
Fenugreek is also a household spice and thickening agent commonly used in manufacturing soap and shampoo.
The fenugreek seeds can be ground into powder and used in various dishes particularly Indian food to provide a sweet, nutty taste. The nutritional profile of fenugreek makes it a highly sought after natural herb for breast milk production in nursing mothers.
What is Fennel?
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Tracing its origin to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean, the fennel herb is known scientifically as Foeniculum vulgare. It’s a culinary herb known for its flavorful medicinal properties. Like fenugreek, the fennel is a perennial plant with green and white feather-like leaves with distinct yellow flowers.
It produces a crunchy bulb and potent seeds that taste like licorice. The seeds are rich in essential oils which makes it a multipurpose solution for various health issues.
What is Moringa?
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The scientific name for Moringa is Moringa oleifera. This South Asian native plant has dominated the natural medicine space for centuries. The plant has tiny green leaves, white flowers and long bulbs that contain tiny brown seeds. Moronga is highly rich in bioactive plant compounds. It’s known as a natural antioxidant and a rich nutritional profile.
What Are The Health Benefits of Herbal Smoothies for Lactating Moms?
Are you curious about the health benefits of an herbal fenugreek and moringa smoothie? According to a 2018 study, nursing moms who consumed fenugreek supplements noted a significant increase in breast milk. Fenugreek seeds contain phytoestrogens, plant compounds known to increase milk supply in breastfeeding moms.
Similarly, fennel seeds have been used for centuries as a traditional galactagogue. It’s also rich in anethole, a compound that supports milk production. Fennel seeds also help ease colic in breastfeeding infants.
Moringa can be used raw or in powder form and contains essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C and calcium. It’s rich in natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, providing nourishment during lactation.
In 2016, the Journal of Midwifery and Reproductive Health showed that nursing mothers who consume moringa leaf powder experienced a significant milk increase.
With all these benefits, you have every reason to try out this unique recipe that will benefit you and your baby. Ready to indulge in this powerful combo? Let’s whip up this quick recipe in a few easy steps.
How to Make a Herbal Lactation Smoothie Recipe With Fenugreek, Moringa, Fennel, Banana and Almond Milk
Let’s look at the ingredients you’ll need.
Lactation Smoothie Recipe Ingredients:
- A tablespoon of fenugreek seeds. If you don’t have raw seeds, use fenugreek powder instead
- A tablespoon of fennel seeds. (Substitute with powder if you don’t have seeds).
- A tablespoon of moringa powder
- A tablespoon of organic honey for taste (optional)
- 1 ½ cups of almond milk (unsweetened)
- Two ripe bananas
Instructions For Making Your Herbal Lactation Smoothie
Once you have the ingredients ready, follow these quick steps:
Step 1: Prepare the seeds:
- If you’re using whole seeds for fenugreek and fennel, grind them into fine powder using a pestle, mortar, or fine grinder.
- Mix the fenugreek, fennel, and moringa powders into a single bowl, then combine evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the two ripe bananas:
- Wash, then peel the two ripe bananas and cut them into smaller chunks. This will make blending easier.
Step 3: Blend all the ingredients:
- Add the bananas, mixed herbal powder, and almond milk in a high-speed blender.
- Add a teaspoon of honey if you desire something sweeter. Note that this is optional, and you can enjoy your herbal smoothie without sweeteners.
- If you love chilled smoothies, add a few ice cubes to the ingredients in the blender.
- Blend on high until all the ingredients are combined thoroughly and the smoothie has a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Adjust consistency:
- Check if the smoothie is too thick, and add a splash of almond milk to improve its consistency. Keep adding milk and blend until you achieve the desired texture.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy:
- Pour your herbal lactation smoothie into a glass and enjoy the delicious treat of herbal, nutrient-packed flavors.
A Word On Using Fenugreek, Moringa, and Fennel Powder
A combination of fenugreek and fennel seeds and moringa powder is completely safe and highly beneficial to your milk production and overall postpartum recovery.
Although fenugreek is generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these herbal ingredients are also known to have powerful effects, so you should consult your doctor for professional advice. This is especially recommended if you’re prone to allergic reactions or have underlying medical conditions.
Once your doctor gives you a clean bill of health, drink this herbal lactation smoothie as regularly as possible to support your breastfeeding journey and enjoy the benefits of the herbal ingredients. Happy sipping and happy nursing!
Featured Image: @Jcomb/ Freepik