Can Luffa Network Promote Lactation?

Jun 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Luffa络 (Luffa vascular bundles) are primarily composed of dietary fiber and plant polysaccharides and do not contain hormones or active ingredients that directly promote lactation. Milk secretion is mainly regulated by prolactin and can be effectively stimulated through frequent breastfeeding, maintaining a positive mood, and ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition. Luffa络 may be used as a food ingredient or a so-called "folk remedy."

Loofah sponge cannot stimulate lactation. Currently, there is no sufficient scientific evidence to confirm that it has the effect of promoting milk production. Postpartum milk stimulation should rely on scientific breastfeeding methods and medical approaches. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Loofah sponge is the vascular bundle of the loofah gourd, with the main components being dietary fiber and plant polysaccharides. It does not contain hormones or effective ingredients that directly promote milk secretion. Milk production is primarily regulated by prolactin, and needs to be stimulated through scientific methods such as frequent breastfeeding, maintaining a positive mood, and adequate hydration and nutrition. As a food ingredient or so-called "folk remedy," loofah sponge does not directly affect prolactin secretion or the patency of mammary ducts, and relying solely on it for lactation promotion lacks scientific support.

Some traditional beliefs consider loofah sponge to have the effect of "promoting blood circulation and removing meridian blockages," which may be why it is associated with lactation promotion; however, this claim has not been verified by modern medicine. If milk supply is insufficient after childbirth, blindly using loofah sponge may delay the appropriate intervention. The correct approach is to let the baby suckle more frequently, maintain regular breastfeeding, and ensure the mother consumes sufficient fluids and adequate rest. If milk supply remains insufficient, timely consultation with a doctor or professional lactation consultant is advised to adopt scientifically sound measures, rather than relying on unverified remedies.

Postpartum lactation stimulation should follow scientific methods, focusing on proper breastfeeding posture, frequent feeding, and balanced nutrition. If there are issues such as insufficient milk production, timely professional medical assistance should be sought. It is important not to believe unscientific claims that may interfere with breastfeeding success.

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