By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Breastfeeding Breast Pain
Herbal creams for breastfeeding breast pain are topical creams containing natural herbal ingredients that provide relief from discomfort and soreness associated with breastfeeding.
They help by reducing inflammation, promoting healing, and soothing sensitive nipples. Examples include creams containing ingredients like calendula, chamomile, and aloe vera.
These creams improve lives by providing instant relief, allowing mothers to continue breastfeeding comfortably and confidently, and promoting a positive breastfeeding experience.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for breastfeeding breast pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Filipendula ulmaria
- 3. Zingiber officinale
- 4. Hypericum perforatum
- 5. Lavandula angustifolia
- 6. Mentha x piperita
- 7. Trigonella foenum graecum
- 8. Trifolium pratense
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Oenothera biennis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for breastfeeding breast pain?
- What ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain are treated with herbal creams?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, are believed to reduce swelling and discomfort in the breast tissue, allowing for more comfortable nursing and feeding. Additionally, calendula's antiseptic properties may help prevent mastitis, a common condition that can cause breast pain and infection in breastfeeding mothers.
This natural remedy can provide relief and support for breastfeeding mothers experiencing pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds, specifically calendulic acid and its derivatives, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce breast pain and swelling associated with breastfeeding.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids in Calendula officinalis, such as ursolic and oleanolic acids, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, contributing to the relief of breast pain and discomfort experienced by breastfeeding mothers.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate breast pain, reduce swelling, and promote wound healing in breastfeeding mothers.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds, which help soothe and heal breast tissue.
- Leaves: They are often used in combination with flowers to enhance their medicinal properties and provide additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Seeds: They contain a high concentration of essential fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in breast tissue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh calendula officinalis flowers at peak bloom for optimal potency.
- Infuse 10 grams of dried flowers in 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as olive oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth to remove the flowers and discard the solids.
- Mix 20 milliliters of the infused oil with 10 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of emulsifying wax in a double boiler.
- Whip the cooled mixture for 5-10 minutes until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency suitable for application.
2. Filipendula ulmaria
Filipendula ulmaria, also known as meadowsweet, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
The cream soothes and calms the breast tissue, reducing discomfort and swelling associated with engorgement. Filipendula ulmaria's ability to relax the breast muscles also helps to alleviate mastitis and nipple pain, making it a popular natural remedy among breastfeeding mothers.
Regular application of the cream can promote a sense of relief and comfort, allowing mothers to focus on nurturing their little ones.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Filipendula ulmaria creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Salicylic acid: It acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain in the breasts, making it easier for breastfeeding mothers to nurse.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce breast pain and inflammation, promoting a healthy breastfeeding experience.
- Tannins: They possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the breast tissue, reducing pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of meadowsweet used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: Filipendula ulmaria leaves are used due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm breast tissue.
- Roots: Filipendula ulmaria roots are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and ease breast pain, making them a popular ingredient in herbal creams.
- Flowers: Filipendula ulmaria flowers are used due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate breast pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic meadowsweet for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried filipendula ulmaria flowers and leaves and sift them through a fine mesh.
- Combine the sifted filipendula ulmaria with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until the beeswax and coconut oil melt completely.
- Remove the double boiler from heat and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before whipping the mixture with a hand mixer.
- Transfer the whipped mixture to a clean container and let it cool and solidify for at least 2 hours.
3. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the breast tissue.
The warming sensation caused by ginger helps to increase blood flow and relax the muscles, reducing pain and discomfort. Additionally, ginger's natural analgesic and anti-spasmodic properties help to ease cramps and spasms in the breast, making it easier for mothers to breastfeed comfortably and without pain.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate breastfeeding-related discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Gingerols and shogaols: These compounds, particularly 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Zingiberene: A sesquiterpene present in ginger, zingiberene has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help reduce breast engorgement and pain.
- Caffeic acid: A phenolic compound found in ginger, caffeic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate breast pain and promote lactation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale, rhyzomes contain compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Roots: Although often associated with the rhyzome, roots are also used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
- (optional) buds: Some sources suggest that the buds of Zingiber officinale may also be used to make creams, possibly due to their high concentration of volatile oils with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Extract 100 grams of dried zingiber officinale root and soak it in 500 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean bowl and discard the solids after 2 weeks.
- Combine 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter in a double boiler and melt them slowly.
- Mix the beeswax-shea butter mixture with 100 milliliters of the zingiber officinale extract in a clean bowl.
- Pour the mixture into glass jars and let it cool and solidify completely before use.
4. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it contains hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
These compounds help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the breast tissue, alleviating pain and making it easier for breastfeeding mothers to nurse.
By reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles, Hypericum perforatum creams provide relief from breast pain associated with breastfeeding, allowing mothers to continue feeding their babies comfortably.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Hyperforin: A phloroglucinol derivative that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce breast pain and discomfort in lactating women.
- N-alkylamides: A class of compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities, contributing to the alleviation of breast pain and tenderness associated with breastfeeding.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties, which may help to reduce breast pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress in lactating women.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: They contain hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe breast pain.
- Flowers: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce breast discomfort.
- Roots: They contain hypericin and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate breast pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Gather 5-10 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and 500ml of cold-pressed oil for infusion.
- Steep the flowers in the oil for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place at room temperature.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to remove solids.
- Add 10-20 grams of beeswax and 2-3 tablespoons of vitamin e oil to the oil mixture and heat gently until melted.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool and solidify completely before use.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
The essential oils present in these creams, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, have a soothing effect on the breast tissue, reducing swelling and discomfort. This helps to alleviate pain and tension in the breasts, promoting relaxation and comfort for breastfeeding mothers.
Regular application of these creams may also enhance milk flow and overall breast health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Linalool: This terpene helps alleviate breastfeeding breast pain by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation in the breast tissue, which can contribute to discomfort and pain.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene has a sedative effect, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce breast pain associated with breastfeeding, often referred to as 'engorgement' or 'lactation mastitis'.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce breast swelling and pain, making it easier for breastfeeding mothers to manage their discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flowers: They are used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain due to their ability to soothe and reduce inflammation in the breast tissue.
- Seeds: They are not typically used, however, some studies have shown that the Lavender seed oil has anti-inflammatory properties and could be used in small quantities in some creams, but Flowers and Leaves are more commonly used.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 1 liter of lavandula angustifolia flowers when in full bloom and dry them completely in a well-ventilated area for 2 weeks.
- Steep 100 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 500 milliliters of carrier oil at 60 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then set the mixture aside to cool down for 30 minutes.
- Mix 50 grams of beeswax with 100 grams of shea butter and 100 milliliters of the cooled infused oil in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a container and allow it to cool and solidify completely at room temperature for 30 minutes.
6. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to relax muscle tissue.
The menthol in peppermint creams can help to numb the area and reduce swelling, providing quick relief from soreness and discomfort.
Additionally, peppermint's cooling sensation can help to increase blood flow and reduce engorgement, making it a popular choice among breastfeeding mothers to alleviate breast pain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Menthone: Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, reducing swelling and discomfort associated with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Menthyl acetate: Exhibits analgesic properties, providing relief from pain and discomfort experienced by breastfeeding mothers.
- Rosmarinic acid: Displays antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe and calm breast tissue, reducing pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: Mentha x piperita leaves are commonly used due to their high content of menthol and menthone, which provide pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: Mentha x piperita flowers are used for their estrogen-like properties, which can help to reduce breast engorgement and alleviate pain associated with breastfeeding.
- Stems: Mentha x piperita stems are used for their high content of menthol, which helps to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief for breastfeeding-related discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the early morning when they are at their peak fragrance and potency.
- Steep the fresh leaves in 2 cups of boiling distilled water for 10 minutes to create a strong infused tea.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid plant material from the liquid.
- Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax with 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt the wax and oil together.
- Combine the cooled infused tea with the melted wax and oil mixture and whip until it thickens and emulsifies into a creamy texture.
7. Trigonella foenum graecum
Trigonella foenum graecum, also known as fenugreek, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because they contain compounds that may stimulate milk production and soothe nipple and breast tissue.
The anti-inflammatory properties in fenugreek creams may reduce swelling and discomfort associated with engorgement and nipple soreness, providing relief to breastfeeding mothers.
Additionally, the natural ingredients in these creams may promote skin health and aid in wound healing, making them a popular choice for breastfeeding women experiencing breast pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trigonella foenum graecum creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Saponins: Saponins in Fenugreek may help alleviate breastfeeding breast pain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation of the breast tissue, thus providing relief from discomfort.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Fenugreek may aid in reducing breastfeeding breast pain by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help minimize tissue damage and promote healing.
- Steroids: Diosgenin, a steroid found in Fenugreek, may contribute to the alleviation of breastfeeding breast pain by stimulating the release of milk and promoting lactation, thereby reducing the discomfort associated with engorgement and fullness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fenugreek used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their high content of isoflavones, particularly fenugreek, which is known to increase milk production and reduce breast engorgement.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their estrogen-like properties, which help to balance hormone levels and alleviate breast pain and swelling associated with breastfeeding.
- Seeds: The seeds are also used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce breast pain and swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fenugreek for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Measure out 100 grams of dried trigonella foenum graecum leaves and 50 grams of base cream.
- Combine measured trigonella foenum graecum leaves and 50 milliliters of carrier oil in a double boiler.
- Heat mixture in double boiler for 30 minutes at 60 degrees celsius to release active compounds.
- Strain mixture through cheesecloth and discard trigonella foenum graecum leaves to obtain liquid extract.
- Mix 20 milliliters of obtained liquid extract with 50 milliliters of base cream to create final cream.
8. Trifolium pratense
Trifolium pratense, also known as red clover, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its estrogenic properties and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The cream, which is made from the flowers and leaves of the plant, is absorbed into the skin, reducing inflammation and soothing nipple soreness. This can help to alleviate discomfort and make breastfeeding easier for new mothers.
Additionally, the cream's estrogenic properties may help to regulate hormonal imbalances that can contribute to breast pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Isoflavones: These plant-derived estrogens help alleviate breast pain by balancing estrogen levels in the body, which can become imbalanced during breastfeeding.
- Phenolic acids: Specifically, caffeic acid and ferulic acid found in red clover have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing breast pain and inflammation associated with breastfeeding.
- Coumarins: This class of compounds has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and estrogenic properties, contributing to the relief of breast pain and discomfort experienced by breastfeeding women.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: They contain isoflavones, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce breast pain and discomfort during breastfeeding.
- Flowers: Rich in isoflavones and other bioactive compounds, they have a soothing effect on the breast tissue and help to alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Seeds: They are another source of isoflavones and other beneficial compounds, which can be used to create creams that help to reduce breast pain and promote relaxation during breastfeeding.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 100g of fresh trifolium pratense flowers and leaves from a clean environment for maximum potency.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 30c for 2 hours.
- Combine 50g of the dried trifolium pratense with 50g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Mix 10g of sweet almond oil and 5g of vitamin e oil with the trifolium pratense and beeswax mixture.
- Stir the mixture for 10 minutes and pour it into a container to cool and solidify for 30 minutes.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream reduces swelling and discomfort caused by engorgement, mastitis, or nipple soreness, making it easier for mothers to nurse their babies.
Chamomile's calming effects also promote relaxation, which can help alleviate stress and anxiety related to breastfeeding, further contributing to a more comfortable and successful nursing experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps to reduce inflammation and soothe breast tissue, providing relief from breastfeeding-related pain.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to ease breast discomfort and promote relaxation.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce breast pain and swelling associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce discomfort and promote relaxation.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make creams due to their ability to aid in the reduction of inflammation and provide a calming effect, which can help to alleviate breast pain.
- Roots: The roots are used to make creams as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect breast tissue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 20g of dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla at the peak of their potency.
- Infuse 200ml of distilled water with the dried flowers for 10 minutes in a saucepan.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a glass bowl to separate the liquid.
- Mix 100g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat.
- Combine the infused liquid and the melted wax mixture in a blender and whip until thickened.
10. Oenothera biennis
Oenothera biennis, also known as evening primrose, creams helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that promotes inflammation reduction and relaxation of breast tissue.
This natural anti-inflammatory property helps to soothe sore and engorged breasts, making it easier for new mothers to manage breastfeeding discomfort.
The cream's ability to ease inflammation also reduces breast swelling, allowing for more comfortable nursing sessions and promoting overall breastfeeding success.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Oenothera biennis creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Tocopherol: Tocopherol has antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the breast tissue, alleviating pain associated with breastfeeding.
- Phytosterols: Phytosterols have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the breast tissue, reducing pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Linoleic acid: Linoleic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the breast tissue associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of evening primrose used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Roots: The roots of Oenothera biennis are used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Oenothera biennis are used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain due to their soothing and calming effects.
- Flowers: The flowers of Oenothera biennis are used to make creams for breastfeeding breast pain due to their anti-inflammatory and estrogen-regulating properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic evening primrose for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 1 ounce of dried oenothera biennis flowers at peak potency for maximum benefits.
- Steep 2 tablespoons of the dried flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and combine it with 1 ounce of beeswax and 1 ounce of coconut oil.
- Mix the blend thoroughly and heat it gently at 180 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a clean container and allow it to cool and set completely.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for breastfeeding breast pain?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with breastfeeding breast pain is a blend of Nettle leaf, Fenugreek, and Peppermint.
Nettle leaf reduces inflammation and promotes milk production, while Fenugreek enhances lactation and alleviates pain. Peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation, easing soreness and discomfort.
These ingredients, often found in natural breastfeeding creams, work synergistically to alleviate pain, promote healing, and support lactation, making them a popular choice among breastfeeding mothers seeking natural relief from breast pain.
What ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain that are treated with herbal creams are mastitis, fibrocystic breasts, and cystic acne.
These creams often contain ingredients like peppermint, chamomile, and calendula, which help soothe inflammation, reduce swelling, and promote healing.
They may also include antimicrobial agents to combat bacterial infections and antifungal properties to prevent yeast overgrowth, providing relief from discomfort and pain.