Soup for Lactation

Nourishing Soup Recipe to Support Healthy Lactation in Women during Post Delivery
by Dr. Carla Vidor, DAOM, L.Ac, FABORM

  • 3 whole chicken legs (including thighs)
  • Tamari (Soy and Gluten free)- 2 tspn (taste and adjust)
  • Wood/ Tree Ears /Black Fungus – 1 handful dried
    • These are used frequently in Chinese cooking like stir-fries, soups, and stews. Similar to ginseng which flourishes in the most dismal environments, wood ears grow on dead tree trunks.  They thrive in bleak conditions because they carry within them inherent energy and nutrition.  According to Chinese nutritional principles, wood ears promote the health of the spleen and stomach system which is responsible for our daily energy levels.  Wood ears are also thought to clean the blood of impurities.  They are a good source for vitamins, minerals, like calcium and iron, fiber and amino acids. They also contain vitamin B1 and B2 and lecithin.
  • Dried lilies flowers-1 handful not packed tightly
    • Lily bulbs are a slightly sweet tasting Chinese herb which supply proteins, starches and small amounts of calcium, iron, phosphorus, and vitamins B1, B2 and C.  Lilly bulbs moisten the lungs and can relieve heat symptoms such as dry throat.   They benefit the nervous system and calm heart palpitations, irritability or insomnia.  
  • Garlic – 1-2 cloves chopped
    • Garlic is traditionally used as a galactogogue (something that induces milk production).  Garlic may not agree with your baby so introduce it slowly.     
  • Red Chinese dates -6-8
    • Red dates are an excellent source of vitamins C and can strengthen immune function.  They also contain iron and benefit women who tend towards iron deficiency anemia.  From a traditional Chinese medicine standpoint, red dates nourish blood by strengthening the digestive system.  They warm the body and, like the lily buds, calm the heart when there is insomnia or anxiousness.  Because of their high nutritional value, red dates are good to consume during recovery from illness or if one is feeling generally weak.   In addition, they’re recognized as an anti-aging food and women traditionally consume a couple a day to keep their youth and beauty:)
  • Leeks-1 cleaned well and chopped, discard green tips
    • Leeks can strengthen the yang or warming energy of the body.  The amount of fluids and energy lost during pregnancy and birth drain and deplete creating cold sensations. Warm foods are necessary to support basic metabolic functions. 
  • Ginger -1 inch piece sliced thin into strips with skin on
    • Warming and pungent. Great for feelings of cold and improving circulation.
  • Chinese Rice Wine (1-2 Tblspn)
    • Rice wine 
  • Place all ingredients in a large pot and cover with water.  Simmer everything for about an hour and a half, checking to see if the water level remains above ingredients.  Consume 1 cup per day.