10 Best Herbal Creams For Nipple Pain During Breastfeeding
Herbal creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding are topical creams containing natural herbs that provide relief from nipple soreness and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
These creams work by reducing inflammation, promoting skin healing, and creating a protective barrier on the nipple. Examples of herbal creams that help include those with ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and comfrey, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
By using these creams, breastfeeding mothers can experience reduced pain and increased confidence in feeding their babies, ultimately improving their overall breastfeeding experience.
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The following article describes in detail the most important creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, help to reduce swelling and irritation, promoting faster healing of cracked and sore nipples. Calendula's natural antiseptic properties also prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for nipple recovery, allowing mothers to continue breastfeeding comfortably and with confidence.
This natural remedy provides instant relief and comfort to nursing mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Beta-sitosterol: This triterpenoid helps reduce inflammation and promotes tissue repair, which can alleviate nipple soreness and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated nipples, reducing pain and discomfort.
- N-caffeoyltyramine: This phenylethanoid has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help prevent or reduce the severity of nipple thrush and other infections that may contribute to breastfeeding-related nipple pain.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to reduce nipple soreness and discomfort.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent properties that help to reduce swelling and inflammation of the nipples.
- Stems: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm irritated nipples.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest 20-30 calendula flowers at peak bloom to ensure optimal potency and color.
- Dry the flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
- Grind 2 ounces of dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of the powder with 2 tablespoons of distilled water to create a strong infusion.
- Combine the infusion with 1/2 cup of emulsifying wax, 1/4 cup of beeswax, and 1/4 cup of coconut oil to create a rich cream.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel extracted from aloe vera plants contains compounds that reduce swelling and discomfort, making it an effective natural remedy for nipple soreness. Additionally, aloe vera creams promote wound healing and tissue repair, which can help alleviate nipple trauma caused by breastfeeding.
This makes aloe vera creams a popular and comforting solution for nursing mothers experiencing nipple pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Saponins: These complex compounds help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin, which can contribute to nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Glycoproteins: Acemannan has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that may help to calm nipple soreness and promote healing of nipple tissues.
- Volatile oils: These oils have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help to prevent and treat nipple infections (such as thrush) and associated pain, which is common during breastfeeding.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Leaves: They contain a high concentration of aloe vera gel, which is often extracted and used to soothe and moisturize the nipples.
- Gel from the leaves: It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help to reduce pain, swelling, and infection.
- Aloe vera extract from the leaves: It can be used to create creams that provide long-lasting relief from nipple pain and promote wound healing.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Gather and weigh out ingredients including 2 ounces of aloe vera gel and 1 ounce of coconut oil.
- Melt the coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Combine the aloe vera gel with 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil and 1 teaspoon of beeswax in a small bowl.
- Heat the aloe vera mixture over low heat for about 5 minutes or until the beeswax is fully dissolved.
- Whip the mixture with a hand mixer until it has doubled in volume and is smooth and creamy.
3. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream reduces swelling and redness associated with nipple irritation, making it a popular remedy among breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, Echinacea purpurea's antimicrobial properties help to combat infections and promote tissue healing, providing relief from sore nipples and promoting a smooth breastfeeding experience.
This natural remedy supports the body's natural healing process, making it an attractive solution for nursing mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the nipples, thus alleviating nipple pain.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated nipples, thereby reducing pain and discomfort.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce nipple inflammation and promote healing, leading to a decrease in nipple pain.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Roots: Rich in inulin, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe nipple pain.
- Leaves: Contain alkaloids that may help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort associated with nipple pain.
- Flowers: Used for their potential antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help prevent infection and reduce pain.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest echinacea purpurea flowers and roots in the summer months when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of dried echinacea flowers and 1 tablespoon of dried echinacea roots in a clean glass jar.
- Infuse the dried echinacea mixture in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes to create a strong tea.
- Strain the tea and mix it with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and add a few drops of vitamin e oil to preserve the cream and store it in a cool place.
4. Stellaria media
Stellaria media, also known as chickweed, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream is derived from the plant's leaves and flowers, which contain flavonoids and saponins that work to reduce inflammation and irritation. This natural remedy helps to calm and heal the nipple area, providing relief from soreness and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
The cream can also help to promote a healthy environment for skin regeneration, allowing mothers to nurse their babies with ease and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Stellaria media creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and irritation in the nipple area, alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Flavonoids: As antioxidants, flavonoids help protect the nipple tissue from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting healing and reducing pain.
- Coumarins: These compounds have been shown to exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help numb the pain and reduce inflammation in the nipple area, making them a potential solution for breastfeeding-related nipple pain.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of chickweed used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Leaves: Stellaria media leaves are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to calm nipple pain and irritation.
- Roots: Stellaria media roots are used because they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce nipple pain and discomfort.
- Flowers: Stellaria media flowers are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to soothe and protect the nipples from irritation and infection.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chickweed for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest 20-30 stellaria media flowers and leaves on a dry sunny morning to ensure maximum potency.
- Steep 10g of stellaria media flowers and leaves in 100ml of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the stellaria media infusion through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Mix 20g of beeswax and 20g of shea butter with the cooled stellaria media infusion in a double boiler.
- Whip the stellaria media cream mixture until it thickens and becomes smooth and creamy texture.
5. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The plantain plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various skin irritations and wounds. The cream derived from it is thought to calm and reduce inflammation in the nipple, providing relief from the pain and discomfort associated with engorgement, nipple thrush, and other breastfeeding-related issues.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for nursing mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Apolypodin: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce nipple pain and discomfort during breastfeeding.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help to soothe and protect the nipple tissue, reducing pain and inflammation associated with breastfeeding.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to alleviate nipple pain and discomfort by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part for creams to relieve nipple pain during breastfeeding due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Seeds: Plantago major seeds are used for their mucilaginous properties, which help to soothe and protect the nipple area.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest 30g of dried plantago major leaves and flowers in late summer or early autumn season.
- Mix the dried plant material with 100ml of oil such as sunflower or sweet almond oil.
- Infuse the mixture in a double boiler for 2 hours at a temperature of 40-60 degrees celsius.
- Strain the infused mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
- Whip the infused oil mixture with 10g of beeswax until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
6. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The cream's active compounds, including hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the nipple area, making it a popular natural remedy among breastfeeding mothers.
Regular application can help to soothe and protect the nipple tissue, promoting comfort and confidence for both mother and baby.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Hypericin: This naphthodianthrone alkaloid has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with nipple soreness during breastfeeding.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help to alleviate nipple pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Nordohydrone: This phenolic compound has been reported to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to the pain-relieving effects of Hypericum perforatum creams on nipple pain during breastfeeding.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Leaves: They are rich in hypericin and hyperforin, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help soothe nipple pain.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids and glycosides, which contribute to the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate nipple soreness.
- Roots: They are a source of hypericin and hyperforin, which, when extracted, are used to create creams that reduce inflammation and provide pain relief for breastfeeding mothers.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest 10-20g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves from a trusted source.
- Combine the dried hypericum perforatum with 50g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes or until the beeswax has melted.
- Add 20g of shea butter and 10g of vitamin e oil to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and solidify for 30-40 minutes.
7. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe and calm the nipples.
The cream's ability to reduce swelling and promote healing makes it an effective remedy for nipple soreness and cracking. Comfrey creams are also rich in vitamins and minerals that promote tissue repair and regeneration, allowing mothers to breastfeed comfortably and confidently.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate nipple pain, making it a trusted solution for breastfeeding mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Allantoin: Helps with nipple pain by accelerating wound healing and reducing inflammation, which is beneficial for sore nipples caused by breastfeeding.
- Glucosinolates: Contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of the cream, reducing pain and discomfort associated with nipple soreness during breastfeeding.
- Saponins: Have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help to calm and protect the nipple tissue, reducing pain and discomfort during breastfeeding.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Leaves: Used due to their high mucilage content, which provides soothing and protective properties to the nipple.
- Roots: Used due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds, which help to reduce nipple pain and inflammation.
- Stems: Used due to their similar composition to the leaves, containing mucilage that helps to soothe and protect the nipple.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest 25g of fresh symphytum officinale leaves and flowers, clean them thoroughly with distilled water.
- Infuse 10g of the harvested plant material in 100ml of hot distilled water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid through cheesecloth, collect the liquid and discard the solids immediately.
- Mix 30g of beeswax with 20g of candelilla wax and melt them in a double boiler at 180f.
- Combine the infused liquid with 10g of vitamin e oil and the melted wax mixture, stir well until combined.
8. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as flavonoids and saponins, work to reduce inflammation and irritation in the nipple area, providing relief from pain, soreness, and discomfort. As a result, nursing mothers can experience reduced pain and increased comfort during breastfeeding, allowing them to nurse their babies without distraction or discomfort.
This natural remedy can be especially beneficial for new mothers experiencing nipple soreness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Sterols: Sterols, particularly beta-sitosterol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and pain associated with nipple soreness during breastfeeding.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and heal damaged nipple tissue, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Saponins: Saponins, particularly ursolic acid, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with nipple soreness, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are the most commonly used part in nipple creams to soothe and calm the skin, reducing pain and inflammation associated with breastfeeding.
- Roots: Urtica dioica roots are also used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and pain in the nipple area.
- Stems: Some products use Urtica dioica stems, which contain similar properties to the leaves and roots, providing relief from nipple pain and discomfort.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest urtica dioica leaves and stems in late spring or early summer when they are at their highest potency.
- Dry the harvested plant material at 40c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture and prevent spoilage.
- Create an infusion by steeping 30 grams of dried urtica dioica in 1 liter of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infusion using a cheesecloth to separate the plant material from the oil and discard the solids.
- Mix the infused oil with a thickening agent like beeswax to create a creamy texture suitable for topical application.
9. Fragaria vesca
Fragaria vesca, also known as wild strawberry, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, help to calm and reduce inflammation in the nipple area, providing relief from discomfort and pain. Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties help to keep the nipples hydrated and healthy, promoting a smooth and pain-free breastfeeding experience.
This natural remedy can be a welcome relief for new mothers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Fragaria vesca creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the nipples, making them a valuable constituent in soothing nipple pain.
- Ellagic acid: A polyphenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, ellagic acid can help alleviate nipple soreness and promote wound healing, reducing the risk of nipple trauma during breastfeeding.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect the nipples from oxidative stress, promoting healing and reducing pain associated with breastfeeding.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of wild strawberry used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Leaves: Rich in salicylic acid and other anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Fruits: Containing fragaria, a glycoside with potential anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate nipple pain.
- Roots: Acting as a natural analgesic, roots of Fragaria vesca may help numb the area and provide relief from nipple pain.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild strawberry for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest fragaria vesca flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated for best quality.
- Steep 1 cup of fragaria vesca flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes to make an infusion.
- Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
- Combine 1/2 cup of shea butter and 1/4 cup of beeswax in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the fragaria vesca infusion with 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with nipple pain during breastfeeding because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active ingredients, such as taraxasterol and inulin, work to soothe and calm irritated nipples, reducing discomfort and pain. Additionally, Taraxacum officinale is said to promote wound healing and prevent infection, which can be beneficial for mothers experiencing nipple trauma or cracks during breastfeeding.
By providing relief and promoting healing, Taraxacum officinale creams can help support a mother's ability to nurse comfortably.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Inulin: Inulin, a fructan polysaccharide, helps reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin, providing relief from nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Luteolin: Luteolin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate nipple soreness and discomfort associated with breastfeeding.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpene saponin, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, which may aid in the recovery of nipple skin and reduce pain associated with breastfeeding.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce nipple pain and discomfort.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used for their calming effect, which helps to reduce nipple soreness and promote healing.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce nipple pain, prevent infection, and promote healing.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for nipple pain during breastfeeding.
- Harvest 100g of taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves from a clean area at dawn.
- Steam distill the plant material for 20 minutes to extract the essential oil.
- Combine 50g of beeswax and 25g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Mix 10ml of the extracted taraxacum officinale essential oil with the beeswax mixture.
- Stir the mixture for 10 minutes and pour it into jars for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for nipple pain during breastfeeding?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with nipple pain during breastfeeding is a blend of comfrey, calendula, and arnica.
Comfrey accelerates healing, while calendula soothes and reduces inflammation. Arnica provides pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties.
Apply a thin layer of the combined cream to your nipples after each feeding, allowing it to absorb fully before dressing. This gentle, natural combination can help alleviate nipple soreness and promote comfortable breastfeeding.
Use it regularly for optimal results.