Natural Mastitis Treatment
Disclaimer: The following information has not been approved by the FDA. This information should not be interpreted as medical advice and is not a substitute for a visit with a medical care professional. Always speak to your doctor about any health concerns.
Many women come into The Healthy Place looking for an alternative to antibiotics for treating mastitis. They are looking for a natural mastitis treatment. Most of us have experienced the side effects common to antibiotics and accept them as part of the process of healing. However, as mothers realize, drugs are passed to the baby through breast milk. A decision to treat with antibiotics now becomes a much bigger decision as the baby will also be “taking” the medicine. Unfortunately this is often the point where mothers give up on nursing.
Herbal medicine is both safe and effective for treating mastitis. Master Herbalist and Midwife, Sandra Ellis, writes in her book, Dr. Mom’s Healthy Living, “When my children were born, I got mastitis several different times. I found that if I went on antibiotics, I was going to be extremely ill for three to four days. Since I have learned about mullein and lobelia, I have not seen a case of mastitis last more than 24 hours. It is truly incredible how fast it will help to give relief.”
Natural Mastitis Treatment
The simple steps outlined below can clear up a case of mastitis quickly if you are aggressive with treatment. Make sure to begin treatment as soon as possible. Mastitis is a serious condition. If your symptoms continue to worsen or are not improving call your doctor or midwife.
How to Make A Mullein and Lobelia Fomentation
- Put three level tablespoons of mullein dry herb and one level tablespoon lobelia dry herb in a glass jar.
- Pour 2 cups boiling water over herbs. Cover!
- Let steep for 15-20 minutes.
- Strain.
Use as directed below. You will not use all of this liquid for each application. Be sure to store the remainder in a tightly covered glass jar in the refrigerator.
How to Apply the Mullein and Lobelia Fomentation
Follow the steps outlined below. Continue treatment until all symptoms are gone.
- Soak a natural fiber cloth in the fomentation. You want to wring it out so that it is very wet but not dripping.
- Apply to breast and cover to keep the moisture from being absorbed by clothing. Plastic wrap works well for this. You can hold this in place with a loose bra or clothing. It is important not to constrict the breast with a poorly fitting bra.
- As the liquid is absorbed into the body, remoisten and reapply. This is an important step! Your body is absorbing the medicinal benefits from the herbs.Your continued reapplication will insure successful treatment.
- Use a heating pad to keep area warm.
Dr. Christopher’s Glandular Ointment can be used if you are unable to apply the fomentation. Although it contains mullein and lobelia it will not be as effective as the fomentation.
Optional
Take 1 teaspoon of Colloidal Silver twice per day.
Important Additional Steps!
- Remove any restrictive clothing that is applying pressure to the breast.
- Nurse frequently and empty the breasts thoroughly.
- Start nursing on the affected breast. Although this can be very painful it is necessary to bring about healing. If unable to nurse, express milk frequently and thoroughly.
- If the breast is engorged and baby is unable to latch, stand in a hot shower and let the water run over the breasts. This will help the milk to let down and flow, relieving the engorgement and pain. An alternative to this is to take a hot bath, completely submerging the breast or covering with a wash cloth.
- Increase fluids and rest as much as possible. It may seem impossible to rest with an infant and possibly often other young children but breast pain is often accompanied by a fever and flu like symptoms. This is the time to ask for help from friends and family.
- Take one probiotic capsule twice per day. If you are also taking Colloidal Silver it is very important to take the probiotic at least two hours after taking the Colloidal Silver, as the silver will negate the effect of the probiotic.
This mastitis treatment has been used successfully by many mothers. Herbal medicine can be an effective alternative to antibiotics. But remember, call your doctor or midwife if your symptoms continue to worsen or are not improving.
**This is written as an informational guide and is not meant to replace professional medical care.
Sources
Christopher, Dr. John R. Herbal Home Health Care. Springville, UT: Christopher Publications, 1976.
Ellis, Sandra K. Livingston, M.H. Dr. Mom’s Healthy Living. Christopher Publications, Springville, UT, 2009.
*Disclaimer: All information and recommendations given on this site, in email correspondence, newsletters or other materials provided by The Healthy Place is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice nor be viewed as a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare provider. Consult a licensed healthcare practitioner before modifying, stopping, or starting the use of any medications, health programs, diets, and/or supplements, as well as regarding any health concerns you may have. Our statements and information have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration. As with any health-related program, product, or service, your risks and results may vary. We expressly disclaim responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information provided to you here.”
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