By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 09, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Breastfeeding Breast Pain
Herbal teas for breastfeeding breast pain are natural remedies that help alleviate discomfort and tenderness in the breast area.
They work by reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and improving milk flow. Examples of herbal teas that aid in breastfeeding breast pain include peppermint, chamomile, and fenugreek.
These teas help mothers to enjoy a more comfortable and stress-free breastfeeding experience, allowing them to bond with their babies and maintain a healthy milk supply.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for breastfeeding breast pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Cuminum cyminum
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Lactuca virosa
- 4. Mentha x piperita
- 5. Matricaria chamomilla
- 6. Galium aparine
- 7. Lavandula angustifolia
- 8. Crataegus monogyna
- 9. Valeriana officinalis
- 10. Sambucus nigra
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for breastfeeding breast pain?
- What ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain are treated with herbal teas?
1. Cuminum cyminum
Cuminum cyminum, also known as cumin, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it contains compounds that act as natural anti-inflammatory agents.
These compounds, including cuminaldehyde and limonene, help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the breast tissue, providing relief from engorgement and discomfort.
By soothing the breast and nipple, cumin tea can promote a more comfortable breastfeeding experience and may even help to increase milk production, making it a popular choice among new mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cuminum cyminum teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Cuminaldehyde: This aldehyde acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and pain in the breast tissue associated with breastfeeding.
- Cuminum lactone: This lactone has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to its pain-relieving effects in breastfeeding women.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds, particularly ferulic acid and sinapic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cumin used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Seeds: They are used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain due to their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate discomfort and promote milk flow.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain due to their ability to stimulate milk production and reduce breast engorgement.
- Seeds: They are also used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain due to their antispasmodic properties that help relax the breast muscles and reduce pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cumin for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 20 fresh cumin seeds in the morning for optimal flavor and aroma.
- Clean and dry the cumin seeds thoroughly for 30 minutes to remove dirt and moisture.
- Grind 5 grams of the dried cumin seeds into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the cumin powder in 250 ml of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea and enjoy it warm or cold within 30 minutes of preparation.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it contains anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that soothe and calm the breast tissue.
The tea's ability to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles helps alleviate discomfort and pain associated with breastfeeding. Additionally, Calendula's antioxidant and antimicrobial properties may help protect the breast tissue from damage and infection, promoting overall breast health and reducing the risk of complications.
This makes it a popular choice for nursing mothers seeking natural relief from breast pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds, specifically triterpenoids, help alleviate breastfeeding breast pain by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the breast tissue.
- Calendulin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to soothe breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce breast pain and promote overall breast health during breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties to soothe breast pain and discomfort.
- Flowers: Used for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties to ease breast pain and promote relaxation.
- Seeds : Used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help reduce breast pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest the calendula officinalis flowers at peak bloom for optimal potency and flavor.
- Dry the flowers thoroughly in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried calendula officinalis flowers with 1 cup of boiling water and steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Enjoy the tea immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
3. Lactuca virosa
Lactuca virosa, also known as prickly lettuce, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the breast.
The tea's soothing effects are thought to calm nipple soreness, allowing for more comfortable feeding sessions.
Additionally, prickly lettuce tea's potential to relax the uterine muscles and reduce tension in the breast tissue may also contribute to alleviating pain associated with breastfeeding.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lactuca virosa teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes, particularly those from the lactucarium content in Lactuca virosa, help with breastfeeding breast pain by reducing inflammation and pain through their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Lactuca virosa, such as lactucarium and lactucopicrin, help with breastfeeding breast pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which in turn reduces pain and inflammation in the breast tissue.
- Phenolic glycosides: Phenolic glycosides, including lactucopicrin, in Lactuca virosa help with breastfeeding breast pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which alleviate pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of prickly lettuce used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain because of their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease pain in the breasts.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain because of their soothing and calming effects, which can help to alleviate breast discomfort and promote relaxation.
- Stems: They are used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain because of their anti-spasmodic properties, which can help to relieve breast pain and discomfort associated with lactation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic prickly lettuce for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Gather 20-30 grams of dried lactuca virosa flowers and leaves for tea preparation.
- Steep the herbs in 250 ml of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids immediately.
- Add honey to taste for sweetness but not more than 1 teaspoon per serving.
- Allow the tea to cool completely before consumption within 30 minutes.
4. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol content in peppermint is believed to relax the uterine muscles and reduce swelling, providing relief from engorgement and discomfort. Additionally, peppermint's cooling effect can help numb the pain and promote a sense of calm, making it easier for mothers to manage breastfeeding-related breast pain and continue to nurse their babies comfortably.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate breast pain and support lactation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Menthol: Menthol is a cyclic terpene that helps to relax the uterine muscles and improve milk flow, thereby reducing breast pain associated with breastfeeding.
- Limonene: Limonene, a monoterpenoid, has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the breasts, making it easier to breastfeed.
- Roscavavin: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce breast pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are commonly used in teas for breastfeeding breast pain relief due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Mentha x piperita are used in teas to help alleviate breast pain in lactating women, possibly due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are utilized in teas for breastfeeding breast pain as they contain menthol, which can help to relax and soothe the breast tissue.
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 and flowers when in peak flavor and aroma.
- Chop the fresh plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of chopped plant material with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes allowing the flavors and oils to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate cup before serving.
5. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in chamomile help to reduce inflammation and ease muscle spasms, which can contribute to breast pain during breastfeeding. Additionally, the calming effects of chamomile can help new mothers relax and reduce stress, which is often a contributing factor to breastfeeding discomfort.
This herbal tea can provide relief and support to breastfeeding mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Apigenin: Apigenin acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Luteolin: Luteolin has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate breast pain and discomfort in lactating women.
- Α-bisabolol: α-Bisabolol is a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm and reduce breast pain and discomfort during breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flowers: These are the primary part used in teas for breastfeeding breast pain due to their known anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Leaves: Some herbal teas combine the leaves of Matricaria chamomilla with flowers, as they also contain some calming and soothing compounds.
- Flowers (again, because it's the most commonly used part): Flowers are the most widely used part, making up the bulk of teas, including those for breastfeeding breast pain, due to their established efficacy and widespread availability.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest matricaria chamomilla flowers when in full bloom for optimal potency and flavor.
- Gently dry the flowers in a single layer for 1-2 days to preserve their properties.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids completely.
- Store the tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
6. Galium aparine
Galium aparine, also known as cleavers, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
The saponins and flavonoids present in cleavers are believed to soothe and calm breast tissue, reducing swelling and discomfort. By promoting lymphatic drainage, cleavers tea may help to clear out toxins and excess fluids, thereby alleviating breast engorgement and pain associated with breastfeeding.
Regular consumption of cleavers tea may also help to ease the transition for new mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Galium aparine teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds, particularly gallic acid, may help reduce inflammation and alleviate breast pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, may contribute to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of Galium aparine tea, helping to soothe breast pain.
- Saponins: Saponins, which are a type of triterpenoid, may exhibit anti-inflammatory and estrogen-modulating effects, potentially helping to alleviate breast engorgement and pain during breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cleavers used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas that help soothe and ease breast pain in lactating women due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Stems: The stems are also used to make teas that may help reduce breast engorgement and alleviate breast pain in new mothers.
- Leaves: (Again, leaves are the most commonly used part) Leaves are used in teas that may help increase milk production and reduce breast pain in breastfeeding women.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cleavers for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest the herb galium aparine by cutting the stems when they are in flower and dry them immediately.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried galium aparine per 8 oz of boiling water.
- Steep the dried galium aparine in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the herb particles.
- Allow the tea to cool before serving and consuming within 1-2 hours for optimal flavor.
7. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it contains calming compounds that soothe and relax the breast tissue.
The anti-inflammatory properties of lavender tea may reduce swelling and ease discomfort associated with engorgement.
Furthermore, lavender's ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels can help alleviate nipple soreness and breast tenderness, making it a popular choice among breastfeeding mothers to alleviate pain and promote overall comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Linalool: A terpene found in Lavandula angustifolia tea, linalool helps with breastfeeding breast pain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can alleviate discomfort and pain associated with engorgement and nipple soreness.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene is also a key component of Lavandula angustifolia tea and contributes to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to ease breastfeeding-related breast pain by reducing swelling and discomfort.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound found in Lavandula angustifolia tea, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate breastfeeding-related breast pain by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their calming and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate breast pain in breastfeeding mothers.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas due to their relaxing and sedative effects, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, ultimately relieving breast pain.
- Leaves: They are also used to make teas because of their antispasmodic properties, which can help to ease muscle cramps and spasms associated with breast pain during breastfeeding.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers in the early morning when they are at their peak potency.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a low temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Measure 1 teaspoon of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers per 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the dried flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their active compounds.
- Strain the tea and enjoy it warm or chilled as needed to promote relaxation and calmness.
8. Crataegus monogyna
Crataegus monogyna, also known as hawthorn, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve blood flow to the breasts.
The flavonoids present in hawthorn tea are known to relax the uterine muscles and reduce inflammation, making it a natural remedy for alleviating breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
The improved circulation also helps to nourish and support the milk-producing glands, promoting a healthy and comfortable breastfeeding experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce breast pain and swelling associated with breastfeeding.
- Phenolic acids: They exhibit antioxidant properties that may help alleviate breast pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the breast tissue.
- Flavonoid glycosides: As a powerful antioxidant, quercetin can help reduce inflammation and alleviate breast pain by promoting tissue repair and reducing oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help soothe breast pain and support lactation.
- Fruits: High in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support breast health and lactation.
- Stems: Contain bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate breast pain associated with breastfeeding.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried crataegus monogyna leaves and flowers from a reliable source.
- Steep the dried herbal mixture in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
- Discard the solids and add honey or other sweeteners to taste if desired.
- Allow the tea to cool and drink immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
9. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory and relaxant properties.
The root of the valerian plant has been used for centuries to soothe and calm the body, providing relief from physical discomfort.
When consumed as a tea, valerian root is absorbed into the bloodstream, where it can help to ease breast engorgement and pain associated with breastfeeding, promoting a more comfortable and enjoyable feeding experience for mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Valerenic acid and isovalerenic acid: These terpenes have been shown to have anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate breast pain in breastfeeding mothers by reducing stress and inflammation.
- Hesperidin: Hesperidin has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and pain in the breasts during breastfeeding.
- Valeranone: Valeranone has been reported to have anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help breastfeeding mothers manage stress and alleviate breast pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Roots: Valerian roots are commonly used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain due to their high concentration of valerenic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and sedative properties.
- Leaves: Valerian leaves can be used to make teas, although less commonly than roots, and are sometimes used in conjunction with roots to enhance their effects.
- Flowers: Valerian flowers are sometimes used to make teas, particularly in herbal blends, to provide a more subtle and calming effect on breast pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 100-150g of valeriana officinalis roots in the fall after the first frost for optimal potency.
- Clean the roots thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris from the harvesting process.
- Dry the cleaned roots in a well-ventilated area at 50-60c for 2-3 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Steep 2-3g of dried valeriana officinalis roots in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy a soothing and calming herbal valeriana officinalis tea.
10. Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, teas helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling and discomfort in the breasts.
The tea is rich in flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have been shown to have a soothing effect on the mammary glands, making it easier for mothers to nurse their babies.
Additionally, the tea's antispasmodic properties can help to ease cramps and discomfort associated with engorgement, making it a popular choice among breastfeeding mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Oxymatrine: Oxymatrine, a type of alkaloid, has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce breast pain and inflammation associated with breastfeeding.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as Quercetin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate breast pain and discomfort caused by breastfeeding.
- Sambunigron: Sambunigron, a type of saponin, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which can help reduce breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain because they contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain because they have a diuretic effect that helps to reduce water retention and ease breast engorgement.
- Fruits: They are used to make teas for breastfeeding breast pain because they are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the breast tissue.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Gather sambucus nigra berries and flowers according to a ratio of 2 to 1 of berries to flowers.
- Dry the gathered sambucus nigra berries and flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
- Crush 2 tablespoons of dried sambucus nigra berries and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powdered sambucus nigra in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving the herbal sambucus nigra tea.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for breastfeeding breast pain?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with breastfeeding breast pain is a blend of Peppermint, Chamomile, and Red Raspberry Leaf.
Peppermint cools and soothes sore nipples, while Chamomile calms and relaxes the breast tissue. Red Raspberry Leaf, rich in calcium and magnesium, helps to ease engorgement and promote milk production.
Drinking these teas regularly can provide relief from soreness, swelling, and discomfort associated with breastfeeding, making it an excellent natural remedy for breastfeeding mothers.
What ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain that are treated with herbal teas are mastitis, engorgement, and nipple thrush.
Herbal teas such as peppermint, chamomile, and lemon balm can help alleviate symptoms like inflammation, swelling, and discomfort associated with these conditions.
These teas have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can soothe the breasts and nipples, promoting relaxation and relief from pain and discomfort.