⚠️CautionCurated
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil is a double caution while breastfeeding: menthol can reduce milk supply in some mothers, and it must never be used around infants due to the risk of respiratory distress in young children.
📉Menthol (peppermint) can reduce milk supply. Sometimes intentionally used to help with weaning or oversupply.
Menthol — the active compound in peppermint oil — has been documented to decrease milk supply when applied to the breast. If you're struggling with oversupply and want to reduce production, peppermint is actually sometimes recommended for that purpose — but avoid it if you want to maintain supply. Additionally, menthol applied near or inhaled by infants under 2 years can slow breathing — never use peppermint products near your baby.
Always confirm with your doctor or lactation consultant before making dietary changes while breastfeeding.
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