The best way to determine the proper fenugreek dosage is to read the manufacturer’s instructions and to speak with a health care provider about dosages for the treatment of certain conditions. Fenugreek is generally considered safe and does not cause serious reactions with most drugs, so dosage may vary based on what it is being used for and how severe the issues being treated are. It is commonly used for lactation support, so the dosage required may be based on how low milk production is and what underlying problems may also exist.
Most commonly, fenugreek dosage is based on the severity of lactation problems, since inducing and increasing lactation is its primary use. It may also be used as a dietary supplement, since it also contains vitamins and antioxidants. Dosages will generally be lower if it is taken for dietary reasons than if taken for lactation support.
It is generally considered safe to take a high fenugreek dosage, as it has very few side effects and does not cause harm to an infant when passed through breast milk. The reasons it induces healthy lactation is not fully known, although it may increase production of the hormone prolactin or help the breasts produce more glandular tissue. To determine the best fenugreek dosage for this purpose, it is best to speak with a lactation consultant to determine the proper amount needed to increase milk supply, as the amounts listed on the packaging may be much lower than what can reasonably and safely be consumed.
Pharmacists are not necessarily knowledgeable about herbal remedies, so speaking with an herbalist or naturalist may offer more accurate fenugreek dosage information. If you do not have one available where you live, contact a lactation consultant or call or write the makers of the product you are considering. A dietitian may also provide valuable information.
Most times, fenugreek dosage will be lowered as milk production increases, especially if other methods are being used simultaneously. This will not be the case for all women. For those with very low milk production, a dozen pills or more may be needed per day. Others may only require a few.
As with any medication or supplement, fenugreek should only be used under the supervision of a health care provider who has been trained in herbal remedies. Be sure to give information about any other drugs or supplements you are taking in order to prevent any rare interactions. Some galactogogues — supplements that increase breast milk production — may interact with others and actually hinder milk production or letdown, so work under the advise of a trained lactation consultant to develop the right combination of treatments.