Research News
New Thai Study Challenges Belief in Banana Blossom's Ability to Increase Breast Milk Volume in Mothers of Preterm Newborns
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, investigated the impact of banana blossom extract pills on breast milk volume (BMV) in mothers of preterm newborns. This study aimed to provide evidence-based insights into a traditional belief that banana flowers enhance postpartum lactation, particularly in a vulnerable population of mothers with premature infants.
Seventy mothers of premature newborns were randomly divided into two groups: one received banana blossom extract pills (36 mg/day), and the other received placebo pills. Participants were instructed to chew two tablets four times a day for 14 days, and their total BMV was measured daily using an electric breast pump.
The study found no significant difference in the median BMV on the seventh day postpartum between the banana blossom group (333 mL) and the placebo group (350 mL), with a p-value of 0.73. A similar lack of significant difference was observed on the 14th day postpartum (331 mL in the banana blossom group versus 510.0 mL in the placebo group, p=0.6). Furthermore, no significant differences were observed regarding maternal and neonatal adverse events.
The administration of banana blossom extract pills (36 mg/day) to mothers with preterm infants did not result in a significant increase in breast milk volume on either day 7 or day 14 postpartum. This finding contrasts with some previous studies, including animal studies and human trials involving mothers of full-term infants, which had suggested a positive effect. The researchers suggest that discrepancies might stem from variations in study populations, as preterm delivery can lead to a delayed onset of lactation.
This study provides important evidence for healthcare professionals and mothers, indicating that banana blossom extract, at the tested dosage, may not be an effective galactagogue for increasing breast milk volume in mothers of preterm infants.
This publication received an award for graduate students who completed their studies on time and had international publications, 1st time, Academic Year 2567
- Grant for International Research Integration: Research Pyramid, Ratchadaphiseksomphot Endowment Fund, Chulalongkorn University and Placental Related Disease Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University.