Blessed Thistle for Lactation Support

Research suggests that blessed thistle has a long tradition of use as a galactogogue, but the available evidence does not yet support its effectiveness for increasing milk supply. A 2006 review found no scientifically valid clinical trials evaluating blessed thistle for lactation, meaning its reputation in this role rests on traditional use rather than controlled research, and a 2013 survey of breastfeeding women confirmed that herbs are widely used during nursing despite most women reporting difficulty finding reliable information about them. The types of studies available are limited to a narrative review and a population survey, neither of which can establish whether blessed thistle produces a meaningful effect on milk production. Studies also indicate some safety considerations at higher doses, including digestive side effects and at least one reported case of elevated liver enzymes associated with a tea blend containing the herb, underscoring the need for more rigorous clinical investigation before firm conclusions can be drawn.