How Cabbage Leaves Provide Relief
Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that most commonly affects breastfeeding individuals. It occurs when milk is not fully drained, causing a backup that leads to painful, warm, and swollen breasts. This congestion, known as engorgement, can sometimes progress to a bacterial infection requiring medical treatment. Cabbage leaves are a traditional remedy used to soothe the discomfort and swelling associated with engorgement.
Relief involves a combination of physical and biochemical effects on the inflamed tissue. The physical effect is primarily due to the leaf’s cooling sensation, especially when chilled before use. Applying a cold surface helps constrict local blood vessels, which reduces blood flow and swelling, providing pain relief similar to a cold compress.
The unique shape of the cabbage leaf naturally conforms to the curve of the breast, allowing for full surface contact over the swollen area. Beyond the cooling, cabbage leaves contain compounds called glucosinolates, which are characteristic of cruciferous vegetables. When the leaves are crushed or bruised, an enzyme converts these glucosinolates into isothiocyanates, sometimes referred to as mustard oil.
These isothiocyanates are thought to possess mild anti-inflammatory properties, though scientific evidence remains limited. The combination of the counter-irritant effect from these compounds and the sustained cooling action appears to reduce the pain and hardness of engorgement. While the leaves alleviate pain and swelling, they cannot treat a bacterial infection, which typically requires antibiotics.
Proper Application of Cabbage Leaves
Effective use of this remedy begins with proper preparation of the leaves. Select a clean head of green cabbage and peel off two large, intact outer leaves, one for each affected breast. Rinse the leaves thoroughly under cool water to remove any surface contaminants, then gently pat them dry with a clean towel.
For anti-swelling benefit, the leaves should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before application. Next, gently crush the thick central vein of each leaf using a rolling pin or by hand to make the leaf more pliable. This crushing action releases potential therapeutic compounds and helps the leaf contour smoothly to the breast shape.
Place the chilled leaf directly onto the painful, engorged area of the breast, ensuring the entire swollen surface is covered. It is important to leave the nipple and areola completely exposed to prevent skin maceration and to avoid affecting the baby’s latch if breastfeeding. A loose-fitting bra can be worn over the leaves to keep them securely in place against the skin.
The leaves should be left on the breast for about 20 minutes, or until they become wilted or warm from body heat. Repeat this process two to three times per day, using a fresh set of prepared leaves each time. Once the breast engorgement begins to decrease and comfort improves, discontinue the use of the cabbage leaves, as excessive or prolonged use may potentially lead to a reduction in milk supply.
Recognizing When Medical Intervention is Necessary
While cabbage leaves can be effective for the swelling and pain of simple breast engorgement, they are not a substitute for medical treatment when a true bacterial infection is present. Mastitis symptoms can progress quickly, and recognizing the signs that require professional intervention is essential for avoiding complications like a breast abscess. The most significant warning sign is a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
This elevated temperature, often accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as chills, body aches, and fatigue, indicates a systemic infection. Seek medical care immediately if these symptoms appear, as they usually require prescription antibiotics. If the breast pain, warmth, and redness fail to improve within 12 to 24 hours of using home remedies, or if the symptoms worsen, a healthcare provider should be consulted.
Other specific symptoms that signal the need for a medical assessment include a hard, persistent lump that does not soften or disappear after feeding. The presence of pus, red streaking on the breast skin, or discharge from the nipple that contains blood also necessitates prompt medical attention.