Goat's Rue

Native to Europe and parts of western Asia, Goat’s rue is a herb that traditionally has been used as a galactagogue to increase breast milk supply. It’s genus name, Galega, was derived from the words “gale”, meaning milk, and “ega” meaning to bring on, referring to its action of encouraging milk flow and production. Alongside its galactagogue properties, Goat’s rue is also used to support healthy blood glucose levels and may additionally act as a diuretic.

Historically, Goat’s rue has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years as a general health tonic and galactagogue. It is thought to be first mentioned in 1873 by a dairy farmer named Gillet-Damitte who wrote to the French Academy describing a 35-50% increase in milk production after feeding the herb to his cows. Today, Goat’s rue is often recommended by lactation consultants and herbalists to support nursing mothers achieve a healthy milk supply and volume. While it is unknown exactly how Goat’s rue supports milk production, it is thought to stimulate mammary gland growth.

Goat’s rue is also an anti-diabetic herb known to lower blood sugar levels. It’s active compounds, galegine and guanidine, are responsible for helping to reduce blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity. In fact, the drug, Metformin, used to help with blood sugar balance in diabetic and PCOS patients was originally derived from Goat’s rue. Because of its ability to lower blood sugar levels, Goat’s rue may be beneficial for nursing mothers struggling with milk supply due to hormonal imbalances such as those in PCOS. Those with diabetes or on blood glucose lowering medications should check with their health practitioner first before using the herb.