If you’re a breastfeeding mom eyeing that peppermint tea or chewing gum and wondering, “Will this hurt my milk supply?” It’s a common concern—and worth exploring.
Peppermint is everywhere: in teas, candies, breath mints, essential oils, even toothpaste. And while it’s natural, that doesn’t always mean it’s harmless—especially when it comes to breastfeeding. When it comes to peppermint and breastfeeding, there’s a lot of chatter online about peppermint drying up milk supply. But is there real science behind it? Or just mom-group myths?
Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense and helps you decide what’s best for you and your baby.
What Exactly Is Peppermint?
Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. It’s packed with menthol, the compound that gives it that cool, tingly sensation. That menthol is also what gives it its reputation for soothing stomachaches, easing headaches, and… possibly affecting milk supply.
Peppermint comes in many forms: dried leaves for tea, essential oils for aromatherapy or topical use, candies, and capsules. And each form has a different impact on your body.
So… Can Peppermint Really Reduce Milk Supply?
Short answer: Maybe, especially in large amounts.
Let’s look at the evidence.
Scientific Studies on Peppermint and Breastfeeding
There’s a 2020 study on peppermint oil and mammary cells (in a lab, not in people). It showed that menthol might suppress proteins involved in milk production. Basically, the cells made less milk under menthol’s influence. But this was a test-tube study, using very high doses — way more than you’d get from a peppermint tea or a candy.
Medical Databases & Guidelines
- LactMed, a go-to database for drug safety during breastfeeding, says peppermint has historically been used to dry up milk but has no clinical trials confirming that effect.
- The UK’s Specialist Pharmacy Service mentions that peppermint oil carries a theoretical risk of suppressing supply, but again, there’s no strong evidence.
Real Moms Weigh In on Peppermint and Breastfeeding
Surveys and polls (like one from the Tisserand Institute) show mixed experiences:
- About 30% of moms noticed a dip in supply after using peppermint oil.
- Around 70% noticed no change.
One anecdotal report found that peppermint essential oil drops (the equivalent of around 10 cups of a peppermint blend or 3–4 cups of a pure peppermint blend) triggered a noticeable dip in supply. The good news? Those dips were usually reversible within two days of stopping.
So what gives? It probably comes down to:
- Dose (how much peppermint you’re consuming or applying)
- Form (tea vs. essential oil vs. concentrated supplement)
- Your body (some women are just more sensitive than others)
What About Peppermint Tea?
Many moms drink peppermint tea to settle their stomach or relax. A cup here or there? Probably fine. But multiple cups a day, every day? That might start to have an effect — especially if you’re in the early postpartum weeks or already struggling with low supply.
If you’re a peppermint tea fan:
- Keep it to 1–3 cups per day
- Watch for changes in your baby’s diaper output or feeding behavior
- Skip it entirely if you’re working to increase supply
According to the NHS, a maximum of 4 cups of herbal tea per day (including peppermint) is considered safe during breastfeeding.
What About Peppermint Essential Oil?
This is where things get a little trickier.
Essential oils are much more concentrated than the herb itself. Rubbing peppermint oil on your skin, diffusing it, or taking it internally (which is not recommended without professional guidance) can potentially have a stronger effect.
Some moms have used peppermint oil to intentionally dry up their milk during weaning.
If you’re still breastfeeding and want to use peppermint essential oil:
- Avoid direct contact with your breasts
- Use it in moderation
- Monitor your supply and your baby’s weight gain
Could Peppermint Affect Your Baby?
Menthol (found in peppermint) may pass through breast milk and could potentially cause diarrhea, fussiness, or skin irritation in some infants. Reactions are rare, but it’s something to watch for.
Can Peppermint Be Helpful While Breastfeeding?
Interestingly, yes.
Several studies (especially in Iran) have found that diluted peppermint water or cream can help heal cracked nipples and reduce breastfeeding pain. Just be sure to:
- Rinse well before the next feed
- Use diluted preparations (not straight essential oil)
- Stop if you or your baby show signs of irritation
Some mothers also drink peppermint tea to help with pain management after a c-section, though more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for this use.
Who Should Be Extra Cautious?
- Moms with low milk supply or a history of it
- Those early postpartum, when supply isn’t established
- Anyone using multiple peppermint products daily (tea + gum + oil)
- Women working on relactation or exclusive pumping
Safer Alternatives for Soothing or Flavor
If you’re nervous about peppermint but still want a soothing tea or flavor, try:
- Chamomile (calming, mild)
- Ginger (great for digestion)
- Lemon balm (gently relaxing)
- Spearmint (less menthol than peppermint — often considered safer)
Peppermint & Milk Supply – Summary
- Up to 4 cups/day of herbal tea (including peppermint) is NHS-recommended max
- 3+ cups of pure peppermint tea may cause a dip in supply in sensitive women
- Peppermint essential oil is concentrated — use with caution, especially around breasts
- Menthol may pass into milk and cause infant digestive issues or skin irritation
- Some moms use peppermint during weaning or to treat oversupply intentionally
- Always monitor baby’s output & feeding patterns if trying peppermint products
Peppermint and Breastfeeding FAQs
A: Highly unlikely. It would take consistent, high quantities of menthol to make a noticeable difference.
A: Sure! As long as it’s not applied directly to the breast or used excessively.
Resources
- Find a breastfeeding support group near you.
- Milkology Breastfeeding Class – Affordable, video-based online course to help you master breastfeeding at your own pace.
References
- Suzuki et al. (2020). Menthol from Peppermint Oil Inhibits Milk Protein Expression in Mammary Epithelial Cells.
- LactMed Database (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Peppermint (Mentha piperita) and Lactation Safety.
- UK Specialist Pharmacy Service. Using Gastrointestinal Antispasmodics During Breastfeeding (Peppermint Oil Guidance).
- Tisserand Institute. Peppermint and Breastfeeding – Results of Poll.
- NHS (UK). Herbal Teas and Breastfeeding – Safety Guidance.
- Sayyah Melli et al. (2007). Effect of Peppermint Water on Cracked Nipples and Pain in Breastfeeding Mothers – Randomized Controlled Trial.
- KellyMom. Herbs and Breastfeeding – Herbs to Avoid While Nursing.
