Herbal supplements are a popular but controversial method for increasing breast size in women. Mayo Clinic internist, Sandhya Pruthi, warns that scientists have not yet evaluated the safety or efficacy of over-the-counter breast-enhancing products. In theory, herbal breast enhancers work by elevating levels of estrogen, progesterone and prolactin—hormones typically associated with pregnancy and lactation—within the body. In theory, these may improve the size and shape of breast tissue.
Alfalfa
This natural grass contains respectable quantities of isoflavones—estrogen-like compounds linked to increased breast growth and changes in fertility. The National Institutes of Health note that alfalfa is traditionally used as a galactagogue, or breast milk stimulant. However, no clinical studies have investigated its specific effects on breast tissue.
Red Clover
The flowers and leaves of red clover plants contain estrogen-like compounds, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). Red clover and other phytoestrogenic sources are among the most popular supplement choices for women seeking natural breast enhancement. NCCAM notes that long-term use of red clover may theoretically elevate a woman’s risk of developing endometrial cancer. More studies are needed to prove its safety as a long-term dietary supplement.
Herbs Containing Anethole
Fennel, licorice and anise—three traditional “female” herbs used for breast milk stimulation—owe their similarity in taste, appearance and function to a common constituent compound. In 1980, the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” reported that fennel and anise both contain anethole, an estrogen-boosting compound also found in licorice root. The National Institutes of Health state that women taking licorice may experience a spike in levels or prolactin, a hormone associated with breast milk production. In theory, this could lead to improvements in the size and shape of breasts.
About this Author
Juniper Russo Tarascio, a natural health consultant, has been writing professionally since April 2008. Since then, she has published over 1,000 articles for both print-based and online publications. Her primary writing interests include health, pets and natural living.
