Key Finding
Combined herbal decoction and auricular acupressure therapy achieved 96.15% effectiveness in treating postpartum hypogalactia compared to 80.77% with auricular acupressure alone, with superior improvements in milk production, hormonal profiles, and psychological outcomes.
Researchers studied whether combining herbal medicine with auricular acupressure (applying pressure to specific points on the ear) could help women experiencing low breast milk production after childbirth. The study included 104 new mothers with insufficient milk supply who were randomly divided into two groups. One group received auricular acupressure alone, while the other received both auricular acupressure and a traditional herbal decoction for two weeks.
The results showed that both groups improved, but women receiving the combined treatment experienced significantly better outcomes. The combination therapy group produced more breast milk, needed less formula supplementation for their babies, and showed more favorable hormone levels—specifically lower estradiol and progesterone with higher prolactin, which supports milk production. These women also reported reduced symptoms of insufficient lactation and experienced less anxiety and depression. The overall effectiveness rate was notably higher in the combined therapy group (96% versus 81%), and both treatments were found to be safe with no significant side effects.
For mothers struggling with low milk supply, this research suggests that combining herbal galactagogues (substances that promote milk production) with auricular acupressure may offer a safe and effective complementary approach to support breastfeeding. The treatment appeared to work by optimizing hormone levels that regulate lactation while also improving psychological wellbeing during the challenging postpartum period. If you're considering this approach for lactation support, consult with a qualified acupuncturist or Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner experienced in postpartum care.
This randomized controlled trial evaluated herbal galactagogic therapy combined with auricular acupressure versus auricular acupressure alone in 104 postpartum women with hypogalactia (n=52 per group, 2-week intervention period, enrollment July 2023-June 2025). Primary outcomes measured breast milk volume and formula supplementation; secondary outcomes included serum hormone profiles (estradiol, progesterone, prolactin), symptom scores, and psychological status.
Both groups demonstrated significant post-treatment improvements (P<0.05). The combination therapy group showed statistically superior outcomes: decreased estradiol and progesterone levels, elevated prolactin, increased milk production, and reduced formula supplementation compared to controls (P<0.05). Symptom severity and anxiety/depression scores improved significantly. Overall clinical effectiveness was 96.15% in the intervention group versus 80.77% in controls (P<0.05), with comparable safety profiles.
Clinical implications: Combining herbal galactagogues with auricular acupressure appears to optimize lactation through favorable hormonal modulation while addressing psychological comorbidities common in postpartum hypogalactia.
Browse our directory of verified licensed practitioners near you.
Find a practitioner →📌 Taohe Chengqi Decoction significantly reduced brain infarct volume and inflammation in stroke-model rats by regulating the PI3K/AKT/HIF-1α signaling pathway and arachidonic acid metabolism through 22 bioactive blood-absorbed constituents.
📌 Gastrodin and gastrodigenin from Gastrodia elata Blume promote neurogenesis and show therapeutic potential for multiple neurological conditions including Alzheimer's disease, depression, stroke, and amnesia.
📌 Amygdalin significantly improved neurological function and reduced brain inflammation after ischemic stroke by specifically targeting the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway.