Breast, Soreness of

An old treatment for the relief of painful, swollen breast, in nursing mothers, was the eating of sprouted barley, which was thought to dry up the milk. Crushed fresh parsley leaves applied externally were also thought to relieve engorgement of breast when breast-feeding. A poultice or compress using witch hazel was supposed to relieve breast engorgement.

Sore breast or nipples were thought to be relieved by the application of mixture of groundsel and daisies. A poultice made from chamomile flowers and bruised marshmallow roots was also said to bring relief.

An ointment could be made from alum, sugar, vinegar and salt. This was simmered and spread on a piece of cloth that was applied to the area of the sore breast.

A drink made of vervain, betony and agrimony was also said to relieve breast pain. The herbs were crushed and mixed with the beer and boiling milk.

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