5 Natural Remedies To Soothe Breast Pain

Breast pain, also known as mastalgia, is one of the symptoms that all women suffer at least once. Its appearance is usually caused by the sensitivity suffered by the mammary glands during hormonal changes, although it can also occur due to inflammatory diseases and infections such as mastitis.

Although some worry because they link it to breast cancer, entities such as the Breast Cancer Foundation point out that, in general, this symptom is not a sign of this disease. In fact, in most cases it is due to a benign condition where it is not necessary to do specialized treatments.

In any case, if it is persistent or severe pain, it is important to see your doctor for a more accurate diagnosis. From this, the professional can determine if pharmacological interventions are necessary or if it can be alleviated with some basic care.

Natural remedies to soothe breast pain

Now, according to popular wisdom, there are certain remedies of natural origin that can be useful to calm this ailment. However, there is no evidence to support its effectiveness. In any case, its consumption is safe for most healthy adults, so it can be tested without problems.

1. Witch hazel infusion to relieve sinus pain

There is no evidence to show that witch hazel infusion can provide relief from symptoms such as breast pain. However, research published through the Journal of Inflammation highlights that plant extracts have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Therefore, it is not surprising that its topical application is beneficial in calming this symptom. Fortunately, it is a mild plant, which does not usually cause side effects.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of water (250 ml)
• 2 tablespoons of witch hazel (20 g)

Preparation

• First, bring a cup of water to a boil.
• Then, when it comes to a boil, add the tablespoons of witch hazel.
• Finally, let the drink rest for 20 minutes, or until it reaches a suitable temperature for use.

How to use

• Dip a cloth or cotton in the infusion and apply it on the breasts.
• Afterwards, leave it to act for 10 minutes, massaging to maintain a slight sensation of heat.
• Repeat its application 2 times a day, until the pain is relieved.

2. Marshmallow infusion

A post in the National Center for Biotechnology Information highlights that topical marshmallow preparations have been recommended to treat cracked nipples and sore breasts. Although more evidence is required, this plant is attributed anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of marshmallow (10 g)

• 1 cup of water (250 ml)

Preparation

• Add the marshmallow to a cup of boiling water.
• Finally, let it rest for 15 or 20 minutes.

How to use

• First, dip a cotton cloth in the drink and rub it on the breasts.
• Let it act for 10 minutes and repeat its use 2 times a day.

3. Flaxseed water

The natural flaxseed drink is one of the remedies for internal consumption that, due to its contribution of essential nutrients, could facilitate the control of mastalgia.

Although more studies are needed to assess whether it is indeed a good therapeutic measure for this problem, a study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that it helps decrease cyclic breast pain.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of flaxseed (10 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)

Preparation

• First, dip a tablespoon of flaxseeds in a cup of warm water.
• Then cover the drink and let it sit overnight.
• The next day, pass it through a strainer and consume the drink.

How to use

• Consume the drink on an empty stomach or mid-morning, until you feel an improvement.

4. Infusion of chamomile

Most chamomile home remedies are safe. Best of all, this plant has multiple applications that are worth taking advantage of. In this case, we propose it as a supplement to reduce breast pain.

According to information published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , chamomile is a safe, well-tolerated, and effective treatment for women with moderate breast pain.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of chamomile flowers (10 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)

Preparation

• First, put the chamomile flowers in a cup of boiling water.
• Then let the infusion rest for 10 minutes.

How to use

• First, moisten a cloth with the drink.
• Then rub it like compresses on the breasts.
• Finally, optionally, the infusion can be consumed 2 times a day.

5. Infusion of horsetail

To date, there is no research linking horsetail consumption to breast pain relief. However, in popular culture it is said to be beneficial.

According to some testimonies, the consumption of horsetail infusion could help reduce breast pain  when its origin is fluid retention that occurs during the menstrual period.

As supported by a study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine , this plant has diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful against fluid accumulation.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of horsetail (5 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)

Preparation

• First, add a teaspoon of horsetail to a cup of boiling water.
• Then cover the drink and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
• Finally, strain and consume.

How to use

• Take a cup of infusion 2 times a day, from 3 or 4 days before the menstrual period.

Other considerations against breast pain

The application of the aforementioned remedies is a good complement against breast pain. However, the Mayo Clinic makes other recommendations to deal with this ailment.

• Wear a comfortable bra of an appropriate size.
• Increase water consumption.
• Try relaxation therapies.
• Avoid consuming saturated fat, sugar, and processed foods.
• Cut down on caffeine.
• Limit your salt intake.
• Eat foods with vitamins A and E.

What if breast pain is persistent? If so, it is best to seek medical attention. In fact, it is good to consult the professional before ingesting the mentioned remedies.