Last update: May 11, 2019

Carob tree

Very Low Risk for breastfeeding


Safe. Compatible.
Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

The fruit, seeds and bark of this tree of Mediterranean origin are used. The so-called "locust bean gum" is obtained from the pulverization of the seeds.
Contains polysaccharides (mucilage with galactomannan structure), sugars, tannins and flavonoids.
Properties attributed to it: satiating, astringent, hypoglycemic, slimming…
Indications of Commission E of the German Ministry of Health: none (Blumenthal 1998).

Since the last update we have not found any published data on its excretion in breast milk.

Its excessive use can reduce the intestinal absorption of minerals such as iron, calcium and zinc (Harmuth 1982).

It is a plant which is devoid of toxicity and used as an antidiarrheal in infants and children (Akşit 1998, Loeb 1989) and as a thickener in anti-reflux formulas for newborns and small infants (Salvatore 2018, Meunier 2014, McPherson 2005).

Given its lack of toxicity at correct doses and its widespread use in products for infants, its moderate consumption can be considered compatible with breastfeeding.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Carob tree since it is relatively safe.

Suggestions made at e-lactancia are done by APILAM´s pediatricians and pharmacists, and are based on updated scientific publications.
It is not intended to replace the relationship you have with your doctor but to compound it.

Jose Maria Paricio, Founder & President of APILAM/e-Lactancia

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Other names

Carob tree is also known as


Carob tree in other languages or writings:

Groups

Carob tree belongs to these groups or families:

Tradenames

Main tradenames from several countries containing Carob tree in its composition:

References

  1. Salvatore S, Savino F, Singendonk M, Tabbers M, Benninga MA, Staiano A, Vandenplas Y. Thickened infant formula: What to know. Nutrition. 2018 Abstract
  2. Meunier L, Garthoff JA, Schaafsma A, Krul L, Schrijver J, van Goudoever JB, Speijers G, Vandenplas Y. Locust bean gum safety in neonates and young infants: an integrated review of the toxicological database and clinical evidence. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2014 Abstract
  3. McPherson V, Wright ST, Bell AD. Clinical inquiries. What is the best treatment for gastroesophageal reflux and vomiting in infants? J Fam Pract. 2005 Abstract
  4. Blumenthal M. The American Botanical Council. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Ed. Integrative Medicine Com. Boston. 1998
  5. Akşit S, Cağlayan S, Cukan R, Yaprak I. Carob bean juice: a powerful adjunct to oral rehydration solution treatment in diarrhoea. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol. 1998 Abstract
  6. Loeb H, Vandenplas Y, Würsch P, Guesry P. Tannin-rich carob pod for the treatment of acute-onset diarrhea. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 1989 Abstract
  7. Harmuth-Hoene AE, Meier-Ploeger A, Leitzmann C. [EFfect of carob bean flour on the resorption of minerals and trace elements in man]. Z Ernahrungswiss. 1982 Abstract

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