The application of chilled cabbage leaves to the breasts is a long-standing traditional practice used to alleviate the pain and swelling associated with breast engorgement. This method is often employed by those seeking relief from uncomfortable fullness when milk first arrives or by individuals actively trying to suppress lactation during the weaning process. The popularity of this home remedy stems from its high accessibility and low cost, making it a common suggestion from midwives and lactation consultants for managing an oversupply of milk.
The Practical Application of Cabbage Leaves
To begin this therapy, one should select a head of green cabbage, as red cabbage may cause staining, and place it in the refrigerator to chill thoroughly. Once cooled, peel off two clean, whole outer leaves, one for each breast, and wash them carefully under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat the leaves dry with a clean cloth before preparing them for application.
The thick central vein of each leaf needs to be softened so the leaf can conform comfortably to the curved shape of the breast tissue. This can be accomplished by lightly crushing the vein with a rolling pin or by making small cuts into it without tearing the leaf in half. Next, place the cold leaf directly against the skin, ensuring it covers the entire breast area but leaves the nipple and areola exposed.
Keeping the nipple uncovered is important to prevent maceration, or the softening and breakdown of the skin, which can occur with prolonged moisture exposure. A supportive, non-underwire bra can be used to hold the leaves firmly in place against the skin. For general engorgement relief while still breastfeeding, the leaves should be worn for no more than 20 minutes or until they begin to wilt, and this process should be repeated only up to three times a day. If the goal is to fully suppress lactation, the leaves can be left on until they are fully wilted, which may take up to two hours, and the application can be repeated more frequently, as needed for comfort.
Proposed Mechanisms for Reducing Milk Supply
The efficacy of cabbage leaves in reducing milk supply is attributed to a combination of physical and biochemical effects. The most effective component is the physical application of cold, which acts as cryotherapy. The chilled temperature causes vasoconstriction, the narrowing of blood vessels, and this reduction in blood flow helps decrease the swelling and inflammation (edema) that contributes to the pain of engorgement.
Engorgement involves not just milk but also an increase in fluid and blood flow to the breast. Mitigating this vascular congestion lessens pressure and discomfort. The shape and rigidity of the leaf also provide gentle, continuous counter-pressure over the breast tissue. This physical compression helps mechanically reduce the overall fluid volume and provide relief from the painful tightness.
Beyond the physical effects of cooling and compression, a biochemical mechanism is also theorized, although it is less conclusively supported by clinical research. Cabbage, a cruciferous vegetable, contains various compounds, including glucosinolates and flavonoids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. When the leaf is crushed and applied to the skin, these compounds may be topically absorbed in small amounts.
These plant compounds are believed to interact with localized tissues to further reduce inflammation and congestion. Some theories suggest that certain sulfur compounds may have a mild, localized effect on the hormonal signals that regulate milk production, thus contributing to the suppression of the milk supply. The primary documented benefit remains the physical relief provided by the cold temperature and counter-pressure.
Safety Considerations and Proper Usage Guidelines
While generally considered a safe home remedy, proper usage is important to maximize benefit and prevent potential complications. A fundamental step is the thorough washing of the leaves before application, as this removes any surface bacteria, pesticides, or contaminants that could be transferred to the skin. This hygiene step is especially significant if the skin is compromised or if there are any small breaks or cracks in the tissue.
Prolonged or overly frequent use of cabbage leaves can lead to an unintended and substantial decrease in milk supply, even for those wishing to continue breastfeeding. For individuals using this method solely for short-term engorgement relief, it is important to stop the application as soon as the breast fullness begins to soften, which helps protect the ongoing lactation process. Over-suppression of milk, or allowing the leaves to remain on too long, can increase the risk of complications such as plugged ducts or mastitis.
Cabbage leaves should never be applied to broken skin, which includes cracked, blistered, or bleeding nipples. Additionally, individuals with known allergies to cabbage or members of the brassica family, or those with a sulfa allergy, should avoid this remedy entirely. If symptoms of infection develop, the use of cabbage should be discontinued immediately.
Signs of Infection
Symptoms of infection include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Persistent redness
- Red streaking pattern on the breast
In these instances, or if severe pain does not improve, consulting a healthcare provider is necessary to rule out conditions requiring medical treatment.