An Analysis of the Pharmacological Components of Herbal Teas Used for Galactagogue Effects by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry.

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the phytochemical components of a number of herbs and herbal teas used to improve breast milk production by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Materials and Methods: The methanolic extracts were prepared by the maceration method using a rotary evaporator. The essential oils were obtained by the Clevenger method. Results: The GC/MS analyses of the essential oils and methanol extracts of the medicinal herbs Foeniculum vulgare, Pimpinella anisum, Trigonella foenum graceum, Urtica dioica, and Nigella sativa, and their teas on the market were performed with high sensitivity. The chemical components identified were presented in detailed tables. Discussion and Conclusions: In our study possible pharmacological effects of the components identified were discussed in light of the literature. Our findings are guiding for further research on the pharmacologically active components of these herbs and herbal teas that may be used for breast milk enhancement or other medical purposes in the future.