Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue and milk duct. It is usually caused by the infection of the milk duct. This leads to the back flow and engorgement of milk in the milk duct which causes swelling of the breast tissue. Its symptoms include swelling, redness, tenderness, and pain in the breast which sometimes resembles like that of flu. This article discusses the different natural ways to manage mastitis.
What Are The Natural Remedies For Mastitis?
The best natural remedies to manage mastitis are-
Expressing Out Excess Milk– the milk should be evacuated from the breast regularly either by feeding the baby or by hand or by a pump. Feeding is not harmful to the baby as the milk does not get infected with bacteria in mastitis even the breast tissues are infected as bacteria present in the milk are digested and absorbed in the digestive system of the baby. Once the baby is full, the rest milk should be expressed out by hands or pump and this is a natural remedy for mastitis.
Rest– proper rest and sleep are necessary to reduce the effects of mastitis. It is recommended to sit quietly without any activity for some time can help to shorten its duration. It is necessary especially in the first month after delivery where the balance between breastfeeding and milk production is not established.
Fluids-the lactating mother should consume lots of water and fluids to prevent dehydration due to mastitis. It includes water, coconut water, unsweetened juice, clear soups, and thin porridge, etc. This will help to improve fast from the infection and a great natural remedy for mastitis..
Massaging– breast should be massaged regularly in a gentle and circular fashion to clear the blockages or lumps in the breast so that the integrity of the breast can be maintained to allow normal milk flow in the milk ducts for mastitis.
Warm Compression– warm compression or warm water or warm bath is a natural remedy for mastitis. Is advised to apply on the breast to soften the breast and allow easy flow of milk in the milk ducts. This will to break the clogging in the ducts for normal milk flow in mastitis.
Diet– rich sources of vitamin C and probiotics should be included in the diet to improve the condition of mastitis and strengthen the immune system so that your immune system can set a strong defense against the infection. Introduction of garlic in the diet also helps to fight infection because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Care Of Cracked Nipples– a lanolin cream or even breast milk should be applied on the breast to help them to heal quickly so that it can be protected from the infection.
Cabbage Leaves– application of cabbage leaves on the breast is old days practice. It is effective to relieve the engorgement and pain of the breast and a natural remedy for mastitis. Some women recommend using cold cabbage leaves according to their experiences; it can ease the pain faster.
Aloe Vera Gel– it is also an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent that can be applied to the cracks in the nipple and swollen part of the breast.
Neem Leaf Juice– experts advise using neem leaves on the breast as it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can kill certain bacteria that lead to mastitis.
Turmeric Paste- turmeric is a traditional herb that has antibacterial properties. It can be applied in the form of paste on the affected part of the breast and it is a natural remedy for mastitis.
Calendula Ointment- calendula has both antibacterial and healing properties. Application of calendula ointment can help remarkably to manage mastitis.
Conclusion
Mastitis is an inflammatory disease of the breast, which leads to the swelling of the breast most common in breastfeeding women. It can be managed naturally by a number of measures such as warm bath, warm compression, rest, sleep, massage and many more. Application of natural herbs such as turmeric, neem, aloe vera, and cabbage leaves can also relieve pain and swelling caused by mastitis.
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