Moringa oleifera and Phoenix dactylifera L. effects on cortisol and breast milk in postpartum depression: A randomized controlled trial

Postpartum depression affects 10-20% of new mothers globally, potentially disrupting breast milk production. This study aimed to provide valuable insights into effective interventions to improve the health and well-being of Postpartum Mothers with depression. This study used a randomized controlled trial design with three groups: intervention 1 (dates), intervention 2 (Moringa oleifera), and a control group. A total of 363 postpartum mothers participated, and data were collected through salivary cortisol levels (ELISA) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores to measure depression levels and breast milk production (ACIS AC-15X digital scale and Crown electric breast pump) before and after the intervention for 28 days. Data analysis was performed using paired sample t-test and the independent t-test. The findings showed that both intervention groups experienced significant decreases in BDI scores and cortisol levels as well as increased breast milk production. Intervention group 1 showed a decrease in the BDI score from 3 to 1.5 (p < 0.001) and an increase in breast milk production from 159 mL to 471 mL (p < 0.001). Intervention group 2 also showed a decrease in the BDI score from 3.2 to 1.7 (p = 0.003) and an increase in breast milk production from 103 mL to 396 mL (p = 0.007). In conclusion, nutritional intervention with Moringa oleifera and Phoenix dactylifera L. is effective in reducing depressive symptoms and increasing breast milk production in postpartum mothers. The integration of these interventions into maternal health programs may provide a natural and effective solution to address mental health and lactation challenges in the postpartum period.