Breast discomfort can manifest in a number of ways, including tenderness, fullness, tightness, aching, or burning. The discomfort is considered hormone-related, shifting with the natural changes of the female body—such as menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Essential oils may be able to relieve the discomfort while bringing harmony to hormonal changes.
Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for breast discomfort are:
• Clary sage
• Fennel
• Geranium
• German chamomile
• Rose
Safety First
Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should avoid using fennel oil, though fennel is safe for use during all other stages of a woman’s cycle. When feeling unsure about the use of any essential oil use during pregnancy or when breast-feeding, talk with a knowledgeable healthcare professional.
Try these natural healing methods to help reduce breast discomfort.
• Simple massage. Dilute essential oils in your favorite carrier oil and massage painful breasts to bring relief. Geranium, German chamomile, and coconut oils combine well.
• Soothing soak. Add up to 20 drops of essential oil to a tub full of hot water and enjoy a nice, long, soothing bath.
• Hot compress. Adding a few drops of essential oil to a hot compress and applying it to tender breasts several times a day can help alleviate discomfort.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:
• Massage. Even without oils, simply massaging sore breasts can help relieve discomfort.
• Cool it. Apply an ice pack, or even a bag of frozen vegetables, to the area.
• Eat well. A healthy anti-inflammatory diet is always best. Pay attention to foods that may be contributing to breast discomfort (such as caffeine, meat, and dairy).
Breast discomfort is a common occurrence for many women. Try these remedies for tenderness and soreness.
This blend of essential oils eases pain and helps balance hormones to bring relief to sore breasts. Adding it to a warm compress compounds those benefits.
2 drops geranium oil
2 drops German chamomile oil
2 drops fennel oil
1 tablespoon carrier oil
1 cup warm or hot water
1 clean washcloth
Combine the oils in a large glass bowl, then stir in the water. Soak the washcloth in the water, wring it out, and apply to breasts. Keep it in place until the washcloth comes to room temperature. Repeat the process with a fresh cloth, as needed.
This blend is an often-used remedy due to its effectiveness and quick relief.
5 drops German chamomile oil
5 drops rose oil
5 drops clary sage oil
10 drops geranium oil
6 teaspoons coconut oil
Combine the oils in a small glass bowl. Massage onto sore breasts.