How long do you use cabbage to dry up breast milk?

The Role of Cabbage in Drying Up Breast Milk
For many mothers, the journey of breastfeeding can be both rewarding and challenging. When the time comes to wean or reduce milk supply, some may turn to traditional remedies, one of the most popular being cabbage leaves. This method has been passed down through generations, often touted for its effectiveness in alleviating breast engorgement and aiding in the drying up of breast milk.
How Cabbage Works
Cabbage leaves are believed to have properties that can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with engorgement. When applied topically, they may provide a cooling effect and help draw out excess fluid. Mothers typically use fresh cabbage leaves, which can be applied directly to the breasts. Some choose to chill the leaves in the refrigerator or even freeze them for added relief. The application is usually recommended for about 20 minutes, twice a day, with fresh leaves being used each time.
Duration of Use
While cabbage leaves can provide immediate relief from discomfort, the process of drying up breast milk is not instantaneous. It may take several days to weeks for milk production to significantly decrease. According to various sources, mothers have reported that it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for their milk supply to dry up completely after starting the cabbage treatment.
For instance, one mother shared her experience, stating that it took her four months for her milk to fully dry up, despite using cabbage leaves. This variability can depend on several factors, including the mother’s individual physiology, the frequency of breastfeeding or pumping prior to starting the treatment, and whether other methods are used in conjunction with cabbage leaves.
Additional Considerations
While cabbage leaves can be a helpful tool, they are often most effective when combined with other methods of reducing milk supply. Some mothers may also consider herbal remedies or medications, which can work alongside the cabbage treatment to expedite the process. It’s essential for mothers to listen to their bodies and consult healthcare professionals if they experience significant discomfort or if the drying up process seems unusually prolonged.
In conclusion, using cabbage leaves can be a natural and effective method for mothers looking to dry up breast milk. However, patience is key, as the timeline for complete cessation of milk production can vary widely among individuals.

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 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.

Does cabbage cause gas in breastmilk?

In addition, it is common for mothers to be warned to avoid “gassy foods” such as cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. Eating such foods can cause gas in the mother’s bowel; however, gas and fiber do not pass into breast milk.

How quickly do cabbage leaves work?

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.

How long does it take to dry up milk supply with cabbage?

There’s no limit to using cabbage leaves if the goal is to dry up your milk supply. It may still take several days for your milk to dry up with this method.

How long does engorgement last when drying up?

Breast engorgement often occurs around three to four days after giving birth and can last about 48 hours. If your breasts do become engorged, they may feel hard, tight and painful. We have included some tips below to help minimise any discomfort you may experience when drying up your milk supply.

How often do you spray cabbage?

Start spraying at flowering time and repeat every 7 to 14 days, as long as these pests remain active. Apply as a full cover spray when the pest is noticed. Repeat as necessary.

How do cabbage leaves reduce swelling?

In this paper, we have shown that, as identified by bioinformatics methods, miRNA172a from cabbage leaf juice (known in folk medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent) reduces the expression of the FAN protein in human cells, thus lowering the proinflammatory activity of TNF-α.

How to tell when breast milk is drying up?

If your milk supply is decreasing, you’ll notice:

1. Your baby stops gaining or begins to lose weight. Younger babies will gain between 1.5 and 2 pounds each month.
2. Your baby is showing signs of dehydration.
3. Your baby is fussy or lethargic and struggling to stay awake while breastfeeding.

Does cabbage really help mastitis?

Cabbage leaves can help reduce discomfort from inflammation and engorgement, but they can’t treat a mastitis infection. So, if your symptoms continue or worsen in severity (vomiting, diarrhoea, fainting), you might need antibiotics so seek medical advice.