Is milk thistle or dandelion safe to take while nursing?

Dandelion is commonly used as a diuretic in the treatment of water retention due to heart problems; for inflammation and/or congestion of the liver and gall-bladder and to treat congestive jaundice.

Milk thistle is used to increase the secretion and flow of bile from the liver and gall-bladder; as well as a galactogogue - to help start and maintain the flow of milk in breastfeeding women.

If you are using these herbs to treat liver and gall-bladder problems your best bet is milk thistle as it is indicated for use in breast feeding women and as dandelion often has a bitter taste that can sometimes be transferred to breast milk.