Why do cabbage leaves dry up milk?

The Role of Cabbage Leaves in Drying Up Milk
Cabbage leaves have long been a popular remedy among breastfeeding mothers seeking to alleviate discomfort associated with breast engorgement, mastitis, or the process of weaning. This age-old practice is not merely folklore; it is rooted in the physiological effects that cabbage can have on breast tissue and milk production.
How Cabbage Leaves Work
The primary reason cabbage leaves are effective in drying up breast milk lies in their anti-inflammatory properties. When applied topically, cabbage leaves can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the breasts, which is particularly beneficial for mothers experiencing engorgement or mastitis. The leaves are often used chilled or frozen, which enhances their soothing effects and helps to constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing inflammation.
Dr. Jill Farmar explains that the mechanism behind this effect may involve the presence of certain compounds in cabbage, such as glucosinolates, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. These compounds can help to alleviate pain and swelling, making the process of reducing milk supply more comfortable for mothers.
Practical Application
To use cabbage leaves effectively, mothers typically place them over their breasts, ensuring that the leaves cover the entire area. It is recommended to change the leaves every couple of hours or when they begin to wilt. This method not only provides relief from discomfort but also signals the body to gradually decrease milk production.
Moreover, lactation consultants have endorsed this practice for decades, noting that it can be a natural adjunct to other methods of reducing milk supply, such as gradually weaning or using medications.
Cultural and Historical Context
The use of cabbage leaves is steeped in tradition, with many mothers recalling their own mothers or grandmothers employing this remedy. It reflects a broader trend in natural remedies where food items are utilized for their medicinal properties. While some may view this as an old wives’ tale, the consistent anecdotal evidence and some scientific backing lend credibility to the practice.
Conclusion
In summary, cabbage leaves serve as a practical and natural solution for mothers looking to dry up their milk supply. Their anti-inflammatory properties, combined with the soothing effects of cold application, make them a valuable tool in managing breast discomfort during the weaning process. As more mothers seek natural remedies, the humble cabbage leaf continues to hold its place in the pantheon of breastfeeding aids.

Can you reverse low milk supply?

Pump a little extra: Increase the frequency of your pumping, and make sure your breasts are completely empty after each feeding. Even if your baby isn’t hungry, pumping every two instead of three hours for a few days will rev up the body’s supply and the “demand” process and produce more milk.

Why do Oreos increase milk supply?

Soy Lecithin Oreos contain soy lecithin, a common emulsifier used in many processed foods. Some believe that soy-based products can positively influence lactation. In fact, Lecithin does appear to help some mothers prevent blocked ducts.

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.

What are the weird symptoms after stopping breastfeeding?

Other Strange Body Ailments Can Happen
Some might experience headaches or migraines, while others feel exhausted or even dizzy immediately after weaning. Another common post-weaning issue? Acne. Big hormone changes can really throw your body for a loop.

What foods dry up breast milk?

Which Foods Might Decrease Your Breast Milk Supply?

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

Do cabbage leaves dry up breast milk?

If you’re not getting enough relief from other milk supply reduction methods, cabbage leaf therapy might give you results. 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.

Can breast milk come back after drying up?

Some parents impacted by the baby formula shortage may be wondering if they can start breastfeeding again. A process known as re-lactation can help patients produce breast milk, even if it has been weeks or months since they did so.

How long do I leave cabbage leaves on my breast?

Wear the leaves continuously for two hours then discard. Repeat each day until your breasts are comfortable with not being nursed—usually three to five days. Then remove another breastfeeding, substitute another bottle of formula and apply the cabbage leaf compresses for two hours.

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.

Does soft breasts mean low milk supply?

You do not have low milk supply because your breasts feel softer than they used to. The excessive fullness we experience in the early days of breastfeeding is about vascular engorgement (blood and lymph) and it’s about the body inefficiently storing unnecessary amounts of milk between feeds.