Do cabbage leaves dry up breast milk?

The Role of Cabbage Leaves in Breastfeeding
Cabbage leaves have long been a popular remedy among breastfeeding mothers, particularly for issues like breast engorgement, mastitis, and the process of weaning. Their use is rooted in traditional practices, and many lactation consultants recommend them for alleviating discomfort associated with breastfeeding. However, the question remains: do cabbage leaves actually dry up breast milk?
Historical Context and Usage
Historically, cabbage leaves have been applied topically to the breasts to provide relief from various breastfeeding-related ailments. They are often used to soothe pain and swelling caused by engorgement, a condition where the breasts become overly full of milk. The leaves can be applied in various forms—frozen, refrigerated, or at room temperature—to maximize their soothing effects .
Mechanism of Action
The effectiveness of cabbage leaves in drying up breast milk is attributed to their potential lactation-suppressing properties. Some studies suggest that prolonged use of cabbage leaves may indeed help reduce milk supply. This is particularly relevant for mothers who are weaning or those who need to stop breastfeeding unexpectedly. The leaves are thought to work by reducing the blood flow to the breast tissue, which can subsequently decrease milk production.
Evidence and Limitations
While many women report positive experiences with cabbage leaves, scientific evidence supporting their efficacy in drying up breast milk is limited. A 2016 study highlighted that while cabbage leaves may help with breast engorgement, there is insufficient evidence to conclusively state that they effectively reduce or dry up milk supply. This indicates that while cabbage leaves can provide symptomatic relief, their role in lactation suppression may not be as straightforward as some believe.
Practical Considerations
For mothers considering the use of cabbage leaves, it is essential to approach this remedy with caution. While they can be beneficial for managing discomfort, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or lactation consultant before using them, especially for extended periods. This is to ensure that any potential side effects are understood and managed appropriately.
In conclusion, cabbage leaves can serve as a helpful tool for breastfeeding mothers dealing with engorgement and discomfort. However, their effectiveness in drying up breast milk is not universally supported by scientific evidence, and individual experiences may vary. As with any remedy, informed and cautious use is key.

What should a breastfeeding mother avoid eating?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.

How can I dry up my milk supply ASAP?

One of the main things a person can do to dry up breast milk is avoid nursing or pumping. The supply of breast milk increases with demand. Avoiding nursing or pumping, even if a person feels uncomfortable, tells the body to produce less milk.

What foods dry up breast milk?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

• Alcohol.
• Sage, Parsley, and Peppermint.
• Chasteberry.
• Pseudoephedrine, Methylergonovine, and Bromocriptine.

What happens when you put cabbage leaves on breast?

This unusual form of therapy is effective because the cabbage leaves absorb some of the fluid from the glands within the breast area, reducing the fullness in the tissue. Many moms see some reduction in engorgement within 12 hours of starting it.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.

Can cabbage affect breast milk?

There’s no specific reason to eat cabbage while breastfeeding — it doesn’t help you in any unique way, but it certainly doesn’t hurt, either. Despite the fact that it looks kind of unimpressive, cabbage is actually loaded with nutrients that breastfeeding moms need to stay healthy, like vitamins K and C and folate.

What is the fastest way to dry up breast milk?

Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma. Take Benadryl as directed on the package.

Can cabbage leaves unclog milk duct?

While cabbage leaves are effective in easing engorgement, it can also be helpful to alternate hot and cold compresses to lessen pain. Do not apply cabbage to broken skin. Avoid placing the cabbage on any areas of broken skin, including cracked nipples.

Can I put cabbage on my breast to stop breastfeeding?

If you’re weaning your baby or you want to dry up your breast milk and stop lactating altogether, you don’t have to worry about the cabbage leaves treatment causing a low breast milk supply. You can continue to use the cabbage leaves on your breasts for as long as they are helpful.

How long does it take cabbage leaves to dry up breast milk?

Change the leaves about every two hours, sooner if they become wilted or smell like cooked cabbage. Wear the cabbage leaves day and night until your breasts stay soft. This may take 3 to 5 days.