Does Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor) reduce breast milk supply?

Ophiopogon japonicus (MJ) generally does not reduce breast milk supply. It is recommended to use medication properly under a doctor's guidance.

Ophiopogon japonicus has a sweet and cold nature. Consuming it in appropriate amounts helps replenish body fluids. For breastfeeding women, moderate consumption of MJ does not decrease milk production. On the contrary, due to its function of nourishing yin and moistening the lungs, it may help improve postpartum weakness and fatigue. Individual physical conditions vary; some breastfeeding women do not experience reduced milk production after consuming MJ, which relates to individual constitution, dosage, and frequency of consumption.

Reducing milk supply typically refers to using medications or other methods to decrease or stop breast milk production in lactating women. However, Ophiopogon japonicus does not have this function. Although Ophiopogon japonicus has good medicinal effects, as it is a cold-natured herb, it is not suitable for women who are breastfeeding. Using MJ during lactation may cause symptoms such as poor appetite, loose stools, and cold hands and feet, which are detrimental to overall health and milk secretion.

If breastfeeding women want to increase their milk supply, they can appropriately consume warm-natured soups in daily life, such as carp soup, pig's trotter soup, beef soup, etc. These foods can, to some extent, stimulate milk production and meet the baby's nutritional needs.