International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

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Which herbal galactagogue is known to cause urine and sweat to smell sweet like maple syrup?

  1. Chamomile

  2. Fenugreek

  3. Milk Thistle

  4. Fennel

The correct answer is: Fenugreek

Fenugreek is recognized for its effect as a galactagogue, which means it can help promote milk production in breastfeeding mothers. One distinctive characteristic of fenugreek is its potential to alter the body's odor. Specifically, the consumption of fenugreek can lead to a sweet aroma in urine and sweat that resembles maple syrup. This phenomenon is attributed to the presence of certain compounds in fenugreek seeds, primarily a compound called sotolon, which is known for its sweet, fragrant scent. The change in odor can often be a point of discussion among lactation consultants and mothers using fenugreek, as it indicates the herb's presence in the body and its active role in lactation support. Other herbal options listed do not share this specific olfactory characteristic, making fenugreek a unique choice among galactagogue herbs.