Fibrocystic breast condition is commonly found in many women due to the monthly hormonal changes. Women with irregular menstrual cycle suffer more with this condition. During menstrual cycle hormones (oestrogens, progesterone and prolactin) prepare the breast for possible pregnancy by increasing the milk producing glandular cells. After the menstrual period the extra glandular cells are broken down by scavenger cells, and the secretions or fluids produced by these cells are transported downstream through the lymphatic system.
The accumulation of fragments of cellular debris causes scarring (fibrosis) and trapped secretions called cysts appear as palpable lumps causing breast pain and discomfort. Most of the lumps disappear after the monthly period. The most comforting thing is that these fibroids or lumps are benign (non-cancerous) in nature. Some of the easy home remedies can help in reducing the symptoms of fibrocystic breast disease. Common home remedies for fibrocystic breast:
Home Remedies For Fibrocystic Breasts
Evening Primrose Oil
Seeds of primrose contain essential fatty acids mainly gamma-linoleic acid which helps in reducing inflammation. Intake of 3 to 4 grams of primrose oil daily with a lot of water helps in flushing out of extra oestrogen and other toxins from the body.
Castor Oil
Vegetable oil produced from the castor seeds contain ricinoleic acid as one of the active ingredients, which acts as an anti-inflammatory and can reduce swelling in the breasts. Castor oil can be ingested or used as a compress on the skin.
A cloth soaked in the oil (not dripping) can be used as a castor oil pack compress on the lumpy area. It also helps in reducing the pain associated with the fibrocystic breasts.
Iodine
Iodine in the body plays a vital role; it regulates the hormone production and also helps in the production of immune cells. Iodine helps in clearing out of the extra glandular cells and secretions, and helps in returning the breast to its normal state after monthly cycle.
Seaweeds like kelp and nori, cod and other sea foods are rich sources of natural iodine. Regular intake of iodine rich foods can even prevent the development of fibrocystic breasts.
Vegetables And Whole Grains
Vegetables like cucumbers, cabbage, parsley and other leafy vegetables rich in fibre are natural diuretics, which help in flushing out the extra fluids from the body. Fibres in whole grains prevent hormonal fluctuations; it is one of the reasons for the development of fibrocystic breasts.
Vitamin E
Diet rich in vitamin E such as nuts, cereals, leafy green vegetables and vegetable oils help in reducing pain and tenderness in the breast as they contain antioxidants.
Cold And Warm Compress
Compresses are very effective as they give immediate relief from the symptoms. Cold compresses such as ice bags or crushed ice in a plastic bag over the affected area reduce pain and tenderness. Warm compresses reduce swelling and pain. Messaging the affected area with ginger oil or castor oil and then follow up with a hot compress is extremely effective in treating the lumps and pain of the breasts.
Most of the fibroids will disappear without any treatment. But large cysts with pain require treatment. Regular breast monitoring is very important as fibrocystic breast condition with hyperplasia (excessive proliferation of the cells) increase the risk of the breast cancer. If the lump is persistent, hard and does not move freely, consulting a doctor is necessary.
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Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.