By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Breastfeeding Breast Pain
Herbal tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain are a natural and effective way to alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation during lactation.
These tinctures, made from concentrated plant extracts, work by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and increasing milk flow. Examples of herbal tinctures that can help with breastfeeding breast pain include fenugreek, which increases milk supply, and evening primrose oil, which reduces inflammation.
By using these tinctures, breastfeeding mothers can experience a significant reduction in breast pain, allowing them to nurse comfortably and enjoy the bonding experience with their baby.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Matricaria chamomilla
- 2. Zingiber officinale
- 3. Viburnum opulus
- 4. Trifolium pratense
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Lavandula angustifolia
- 7. Mentha x piperita
- 8. Oenothera biennis
- 9. Leonurus cardiaca
- 10. Melissa officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for breastfeeding breast pain?
- What ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm sore nipples.
The herbal extract relaxes the muscle tissue around the nipple-areola complex, reducing swelling and discomfort associated with engorgement and mastitis. Additionally, chamomile's calming effects on the nervous system help to alleviate anxiety and stress, common contributors to breast pain during breastfeeding.
By providing relief from physical and emotional discomfort, chamomile tinctures promote a more comfortable and enjoyable breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that acts as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory, helping to alleviate breast pain associated with breastfeeding.
- Apollinarin: A sesquiterpene lactone that exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, reducing breast pain and discomfort in lactating women.
- Bornyl acetate: A sesquiterpene that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to the relief of breastfeeding-related breast pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flowers: They are rich in apigenin, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to relieve breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, providing relief from breast pain and spasms during breastfeeding.
- Seeds: Although not as commonly used, the seeds of Matricaria chamomilla have been traditionally used to support lactation and may also have a role in alleviating breast pain due to their apigenin content.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Gather 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Mix the dried flowers and vodka in the jar and seal it tightly with a lid.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
- Discard the solids and transfer the liquid to a dark glass bottle, label it and store it in a cool place.
2. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it has a natural anti-inflammatory effect that reduces swelling and discomfort in the breasts.
The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, also stimulate blood flow and relaxation, which can ease engorgement and nipple soreness.
Additionally, ginger's warming properties can help to calm and soothe the breast tissue, providing relief from painful sensations and making it easier for mothers to feed their babies comfortably.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, a type of phenolic compound, help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals in the body.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, another type of phenolic compound, have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe breast tissue and reduce pain associated with breastfeeding.
- Zingerone: Zingerone, a terpene compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce breast pain and promote overall breast health during lactation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Rhyzomes: Rich in active compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce breast pain and swelling associated with breastfeeding.
- Roots: Contain bioactive compounds that help alleviate breast pain and promote relaxation, making them a popular choice for breastfeeding mothers.
- Stems: Like rhyzomes and roots, stems of Zingiber officinale contain bioactive compounds that can help reduce breast pain and promote milk production.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest fresh zingiber officinale roots with a length of 6-8 inches and a diameter of 0.5-1 inch.
- Wash the roots thoroughly with distilled water and gently scrub off any dirt or debris.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and measure out 500 grams for every 2 cups of solvent.
- Combine the chopped roots with 2 cups of 95% ethanol and transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking it every day or two.
3. Viburnum opulus
Guelder rose tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it has a natural anti-inflammatory effect that reduces swelling and discomfort in the breasts.
The tincture's active compounds, such as berberine and flavonoids, work to alleviate mastitis symptoms by reducing inflammation and promoting healthy milk flow. Additionally, guelder rose tinctures can help relax and calm the breast tissue, allowing for more comfortable feeding sessions and reduced nipple soreness.
By supporting the natural healing process, guelder rose tinctures can provide relief from breast pain associated with breastfeeding.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viburnum opulus tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce breast pain and swelling associated with breastfeeding.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate breast pain and discomfort caused by hormonal changes and inflammation during breastfeeding.
- Volatile oils: These oils have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help ease breast pain and discomfort, promoting a more comfortable breastfeeding experience.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of guelder rose used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Viburnum opulus are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Fruits: The fruits of Viburnum opulus are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain because they are rich in anthocyanins, which can help to reduce inflammation and ease pain.
- Barks: The barks of Viburnum opulus are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain because they contain salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic guelder rose for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest ripe berries of viburnum opulus, selecting only fresh and undamaged specimens for tincture production.
- Combine the collected berries with 60-70% vodka or a similar high-proof spirit in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for at least 4 to 6 weeks, shaking it every day.
- After the maceration period, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another clean container.
- Label and store the resulting tincture in a dark glass bottle, protecting it from light and heat.
4. Trifolium pratense
Red clover tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it contains isoflavones, a type of plant-based estrogen that can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
By mimicking the effects of estrogen in the body, red clover tincture may help to relax and soothe sore breasts, making it easier for new mothers to latch, feed, and nurse their babies without pain or distress.
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with engorgement.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Isoflavones: These phytoestrogens help alleviate breast pain in breastfeeding mothers by binding to estrogen receptors in the breast tissue, which can help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.
- Phenolic acids: These flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the breast tissue, making them an effective treatment for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flavonoids: These compounds can help alleviate breast pain by reducing inflammation, promoting blood flow, and relaxing the breast tissue, which can help relieve discomfort and promote overall breast health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Roots: Rich in isoflavones, which may help alleviate breast pain and promote milk production.
- Leaves: Contain isoflavones and other compounds that may help to soothe breast pain and support lactation.
- Flowers: High in isoflavones, specifically coumestrol, which may help to reduce breast engorgement and promote milk production.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh trifolium pratense flowers and leaves in the early morning or late evening.
- Wash the harvested plant material with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
- Place the cleaned plant material in a clean glass jar and add 2 cups of 80 proof vodka at a ratio of 1 part plant material to 4 parts vodka.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and discomfort.
The tincture's diuretic properties also help to alleviate congestion and engorgement, allowing milk to flow more freely and reducing pressure on the breasts. Additionally, dandelion's bitter properties stimulate digestion and can help regulate hormone imbalances, which are common causes of breast pain during lactation.
By promoting healthy milk production and reducing discomfort, herbal dandelion tinctures provide a natural solution for breastfeeding moms seeking relief from breast pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate breast pain by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow, which can ease discomfort and swelling associated with breastfeeding.
- Saponins: Saponins have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe breast pain and discomfort caused by engorgement, swelling, or milk buildup during breastfeeding.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly ferulic acid, have been found to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help soothe and reduce breast pain associated with breastfeeding.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain inulin, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate breast pain and discomfort.
- Flowers: Dandelion flowers are a rich source of flavonoids, which can help to reduce swelling and ease breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh taraxacum officinale roots in early spring for optimal potency and store them in paper bags.
- Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight and store in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for six weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gentle, soothing essence of lavender oil calms and relaxes the breasts, reducing discomfort and tenderness caused by engorgement or nipple soreness. As a result, mothers can enjoy a more comfortable and peaceful nursing experience, allowing them to focus on bonding with their baby rather than managing pain.
With regular use, English lavender tinctures can also help alleviate stress and promote overall well-being during the early days of motherhood.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Linalool: This terpene acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic, reducing breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene has a sedative effect, promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can contribute to breast pain in breastfeeding women.
- Lavandulol: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to alleviate breast pain and discomfort caused by engorgement or oversupply during breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Flowers: They are the primary source of essential oils and active compounds responsible for the herb's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They contain smaller amounts of essential oils and active compounds that complement the properties of the flowers, contributing to the tincture's efficacy.
- Stems: They are also a source of essential oils and active compounds, which, when combined with the flowers and leaves, enhance the overall analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the tincture.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak blooming for optimal potency.
- Clean the flowers with a gentle stream of water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine the clean flowers with 2 cups of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks to allow infusion.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
7. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because they ease spasms and inflammation that can cause discomfort.
The menthol in peppermint oil relaxes the muscles, reducing tension and promoting milk flow. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties help to calm irritated tissue, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating engorgement and nipple soreness.
This allows new mothers to breastfeed comfortably, reducing stress and anxiety, and promoting a smooth transition into motherhood.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Menthol: Menthol is a terpene that helps relieve breast pain by reducing inflammation and providing analgesic and anti-spasmodic effects, thus providing quick relief from discomfort.
- Menthone: Menthone is a terpene that helps reduce breast pain by acting as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, which can ease pain and discomfort associated with breast engorgement and nipple soreness.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound that helps alleviate breast pain by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can reduce swelling and promote healing in the breast tissue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: Rich in menthol, which provides pain relief and helps to ease discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Roots: Contain a higher concentration of menthol compared to leaves, making them a potent ingredient for breast pain relief tinctures.
- Rhyzomes: Similar to roots, rhyzomes are a rich source of menthol, which is essential for reducing breast pain and discomfort during breastfeeding.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest approximately 250g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning.
- Chop the harvested leaves and flowers into small pieces to increase their surface area.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of 45% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
8. Oenothera biennis
Evening primrose tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because they contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that is essential for breast tissue health.
GLA helps to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with engorgement, nipple soreness, and plugged ducts, common issues experienced by many breastfeeding mothers.
By supplementing with herbal evening primrose tinctures, breastfeeding women can alleviate these symptoms, promoting a more comfortable and successful breastfeeding experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Oenothera biennis tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Naphthoquinones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce breast pain and inflammation associated with breastfeeding.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate breast pain and promote healing in breast tissue.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, like ferulic acid and sinapic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe breast tissue, reduce inflammation, and promote comfort during breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of evening primrose used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Roots: The roots of Oenothera biennis are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain due to their high concentration of oenothera oil, which is believed to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Leaves: The leaves of Oenothera biennis are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain due to their antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate cramps and discomfort associated with breast engorgement.
- Seeds: The seeds of Oenothera biennis are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain due to their high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and promote milk production.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic evening primrose for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh oenothera biennis flowers and leaves in the morning to preserve potency.
- Chop the oenothera biennis plant material into small pieces to release its essential oils.
- Combine the chopped oenothera biennis plant material with 80 proof vodka in a 1:3 ratio in a glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids before transferring the liquid to a dark glass bottle.
9. Leonurus cardiaca
Motherwort tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it has a direct effect on reducing inflammation and improving milk flow.
The herb's antispasmodic properties help to relax the uterine muscles, which can become constricted due to hormonal changes after childbirth. This relaxation eases the discomfort and pain associated with engorgement and clogged ducts, allowing for more comfortable feeding sessions and promoting a smoother breastfeeding experience.
Additionally, motherwort's diuretic properties help to reduce swelling and alleviate breast congestion, further alleviating pain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Leonurus cardiaca tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps alleviate breast pain by reducing inflammation and modulating the release of hormones that can contribute to breast tenderness.
- Iridoid glycosides: A class of alkaloids that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help to reduce breast pain and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Rosavin: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to alleviate breast pain by reducing swelling and promoting tissue healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of motherwort used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Leonurus cardiaca are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain due to their high content of flavonoids and iridoids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
- Flowers: The flowers of Leonurus cardiaca are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain due to their rich concentration of essential oils and flavonoids, which help to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.
- Roots: The roots of Leonurus cardiaca are used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain due to their high content of iridoids, which have been traditionally used to ease pain and promote lactation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic motherwort for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest 1 part leonurus cardiaca flowers and leaves from a clean area of the plant, preferably in the morning.
- Chop the harvested material into small pieces, then dry it in a single layer at 40°c for 2 hours.
- Combine 1 part dried material with 2 parts 95% ethanol in a clean glass container, and mix well.
- Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the container every 24 hours.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container, and discard the solids.
10. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm tinctures helps with breastfeeding breast pain because it is a natural relaxant that soothes the muscles and reduces inflammation.
The antispasmodic properties of lemon balm help to alleviate cramping, heaviness, and discomfort associated with engorgement, making it an effective remedy for new mothers.
Additionally, the calming effects of lemon balm can also ease anxiety and stress related to breastfeeding, promoting a sense of relaxation and comfort that benefits both mother and baby.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate breast engorgement and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, luteolin may help reduce breast pain and discomfort experienced by breastfeeding mothers.
- Nepetalactone: A monoterpene with sedative and analgesic properties, nepetalactone may help calm breast tissue, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain associated with breastfeeding.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Melissa officinalis due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate breast pain.
- Flowers: The flowers are also widely used, as they contain a high amount of essential oils, including linalool, which helps to reduce breast pain and promote relaxation.
- Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis are occasionally used, containing some amount of the plant's essential oils, which can contribute to the overall effect of the tincture in alleviating breast pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for breastfeeding breast pain.
- Harvest the fresh melissa officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested melissa officinalis plant material at a low temperature of 35c for 24 hours.
- Combine 200 grams of dried melissa officinalis plant material with 700 milliliters of 25% ethanol in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and transfer the melissa officinalis tincture to dark glass bottles for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for breastfeeding breast pain?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with breastfeeding breast pain is a blend of Fenugreek, Blessed Thistle, and Red Raspberry Leaf.
Fenugreek is known to increase milk production and reduce inflammation, while Blessed Thistle supports lactation and eases engorgement. Red Raspberry Leaf helps to soothe and calm the breasts, reducing discomfort and promoting a healthy milk flow.
These tinctures can be combined and taken as directed to alleviate breastfeeding breast pain and support overall lactation.
What ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to breastfeeding breast pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are menstrual cramps, mastalgia (breast tenderness), and fibrocystic breasts.
Herbs like Cramp Bark, Ginger, and Wild Yam help alleviate menstrual cramping and breast discomfort by relaxing uterine muscles and reducing inflammation. Other herbs like Fenugreek and Marshmallow Root may also provide relief for breast pain and tenderness associated with hormonal fluctuations.
These tinctures can be used in combination to effectively soothe symptoms.