Mama's Milk

10:13 PM Posted by jo

There's no doubt that breastfeeding is the best choice for a newborn baby. However, it is not always easy for new mother to provide for her newborn and problems such as lack of flow or engorged breasts can occur. Sometimes the baby is not strong enough to stimulate the flow of milk. Many times these problems can be solved, but it is very stressful for both mother and baby. La Leche League, an organization that helps mothers with nursing difficulties, can be found in most areas today.

Here are some suggestions that has historically been used when the supply of milk is insufficient:

According to Gary Young, mix geranium, fennel, and/or sage 50-50 with massage oil and massage over breast. Keep in mind that fennel should not be used longer than 10 days at a time. The oils have historically been applied above the breast on the lymph area, and 2-3 drops have historically been applied on the spine, about heart level. I suggest that you wait a while to let the oils absorb, or wash them off before you nurse. Give them time to be absorbed first though.
You may consider diffusing mood lifting oils such as bergamot, ylang ylang, rosewood, geranium, and rose as well.

I wasn't able to breastfeed my oldest son, and there are times when we can't nurse and we have to accept it. I wish I would have known more about health back then so I at least could have made my own formula. Here is a recipe for homemade formula from the Weston Price Foundation if you cannot breastfeed.

This post was about using essential oils, but there are also herbs that historically have been used to increase the breast milk. Alfalfa, blessed thistle, and marshmallow are some of them. What kind of remedies have you used to increase your milk supply?

Source:

Essential Oils - Intergrative Medical Guide by Gary Young, ND

This information is for educational purposes only and is not meant to prescribe. Essential oils are safe to use as long as contraindications have been researched prior to use. As always, consult with your health care practitioner if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffer from any medical conditions. Some oils are contraindicated in certain conditions, so check out this essential oil safety page to make sure the oils are safe for you.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
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