5 Natural Remedies to Soothe Breast Pain

Though some women may worry about the pain because they link it to breast cancer, entities such as the Breast Cancer Foundation point out that, in general, this symptom isn’t a sign of the disease. Most cases are harmless and don’t require specialist treatment.

However, if the pain is persistent or severe, it’s important to consult a physician for a more accurate diagnosis. From this, the professional can determine if pharmacological interventions are necessary or if it can be relieved with some basic care.

Natural remedies to soothe breast pain

According to popular wisdom,  certain remedies of natural origin may be useful to soothe this ailment. However, there is no evidence to support their efficacy. This being the case, their consumption is safe for most healthy adults, so you can try them without risk.

1. Witch hazel for breast pain

There’s no evidence that witch hazel infusion can relieve breast pain. However, research published in the Journal of Inflammation confirms that extracts of the plant have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

As such, it’s not surprising that topical application is beneficial when it comes to soothing breast pain. Fortunately, this plant has mild properties and doesn’t usually cause side effects.

Ingredients

• 1 c. of water (250 ml.)
• 2 tbsp. of witch hazel (20 g.)

Preparation

• Bring a cup of water to a boil.
• When ready, add the witch hazel.
• Let it steep for 20 minutes or until it reaches a manageable temperature.

Use

• Soak a cotton cloth in the tea and apply it to your breasts.
• Leave it to work for 10 minutes, massaging continuously to gently warm up the area.
• Do the process twice a day to mitigate the pain.

2. Marshmallow root

A publication in the National Center for Biotechnology Information notes that topical solutions of marshmallow root can relieve cracked nipples and breast pain. Although more evidence is needed, this plant is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp. of marshmallow root (10 g.)
• 1 c. of water (250 ml.)

Preparation

• Add the marshmallow to a cup of boiling water.
• Let it steep for 15 or 20 minutes.

Use

• Soak a cotton cloth in the brew and apply it to the breasts.
• Leave it on for 10 minutes and repeat twice a day.

3. Flaxseed

Flaxseed water is one of the consumable remedies of this list that helps control the symptoms of mastalgia thanks to its high essential nutrient content.

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

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp. of flaxseed (10 g.)
• 1 c. of water (250 ml.)

Preparation

• Soak a spoonful of flaxseeds in a cup of warm water.
• Cover the cup and leave it to sit for one night.
• The next day, strain it and drink the gelatinous liquid.

Use

• Drink on an empty stomach or at midday until you feel better.

4. Chamomile tisane for breast pain

Most home remedies with chamomile are safe. Best of all, this plant has multiple applications that are worth taking advantage of — reducing breast pain, for example.

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

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp. of chamomile flowers (10 g.)
• 1 c. of water (250 ml.)

Preparation

• Add the chamomile flowers to a cup of boiling water
• Then, let it steep for 10 minutes.

Use

• Soak a piece of cloth in the liquid
• Then, rub it gently as a compress on the breasts.
• In addition, you can drink this infusion twice a day.

5. Horsetail can soothe breast pain

To date, there’s no research linking horsetail consumption to relief of mastalgia but popular folk beliefs claim it has several health properties.

According to some accounts, consumption of horsetail tea may help reduce breast pain when its origin is fluid retention during menstruation.

As supported by a study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, this plant has diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties that help eliminate retained fluids.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. of horsetail (5 g.)
• 1 c. of water (250 ml.)

Preparation

• Add the horsetail to a cup of boiling water.
• Cover the cup and let it steep at room temperature for 10 minutes.
• Finally, strain and drink it.

Use

• Use it twice a day, three or four days before menstruation.

Other things to keep in mind

Use of the above remedies can help soothe breast pain. In addition, the Mayo Clinic has other recommendations for coping with this ailment.

• Use a comfortable bra, of the right size
• Increase water consumption
• Try relaxation therapies
• Avoid consumption of saturated fats, sugar and processed foods
• Reduce caffeine intake
• Limit salt intake
• Add foods rich in vitamins A and E to your diet

What if the breast pain doesn’t go away? It’s best to seek medical attention in this case. In fact, it’s a good idea to consult a professional before taking the above-mentioned remedies.