Lactating mothers face the problem of sore nipples while breast feeding. The skin of the nipples begins cracking and itching, turns red and starts peeling many a times. It becomes unbearable for the mother and affects the child as well. The main symptom of sore nipples is the occurrence of red rashes around the nipple area.
This ordeal generally lasts for about a couple of days and timely treatment gets rid of these sores very promptly. Keeping the breast healthy is easy as it involves exposing it to fresh air and preventing the dryness of the skin by regularly applying oil to them. However, many a times oiling and airing is not sufficient. Treating sore nipples is made possible by certain herbal remedies or even applications of some herbs.
Even Pharmaceutical companies include herbs in their preparations. Herbal remedies in the form of topical or external applications aid in disinfecting, moisturizing, and soothing the affected nipples on the breast. The most commonly used herbs for the treatment of sore nipples are listed below.
Herbal Remedies For Sore Nipples
Calendula
This herb is used since ancient times for treating rashes and sores as it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Sores on the nipples can be easily treated by this herb. Calendula flowers can be crushed and dried, then after boiling it with hot water, it is steeped to form infusions.
A cloth dipped in this infusion can be then used to clean the nipples. Calendula belongs to the Marigold family and these marigold flowers are used to make cream which on application prevents dryness and also acts as an antibiotic and therefore marigold takes care of infections from happening.
Chamomile
One of the most effective herbal remedies to cure sore breasts is the herb of chamomile. It is a natural diuretic which stops the fluid retention that causes sore breasts. It not only helps in getting rid of the accumulated water but even prevents from further formation.
This herb can be taken in various forms. The most natural form of this herb is its tea, which reduces the soreness promptly, if consumed regularly. It can be taken in the form of capsules as well which are readily available in the markets.
Dandelion
This herb grows avidly and has yellow flowers that are wild in nature. Dandelion like chamomile soothes the inflamed area and prevents fluid retention.
Sore breasts happen due to bloating or constant itching and using dandelion herb takes care of both issues. This herb can be either consumed as tea or can be taken in a capsule form. Both ways are equally effective.
Marshmallow
The efficacy of the roots of this herb is that it is a fantastic soak for the sore nipples .This is a brilliant herb that takes care of the soreness by soothing the tissues are tender, opening the tubes and ducts that are clogged and also minimizes the pain. The best way of applying this herb is by steeping it and preparing a slimy solution that can be then used as a soak.
Comfrey
This herb can be dried and a poultice or a hot compress can be prepared from it. Then it can be used for reducing the pain caused by sore nipples.
On compressing the soreness reduces as the tissues get healed. It is a very safe herb to use but care should be taken to use it externally only.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
