A Guide to Organic Breast-Feeding Supplies

Most mothers who breast-feed their babies do so because they feel strongly about doing what is best for their child. Many of these mothers also choose to purchase organic products whenever possible. This is particularly true when seeking organic breast-feeding supplies because of concerns of what her baby is ingesting.

Breastmilk supply supplements
Many supplements are available to help increase breastmilk supply. Most of these include some or all of the following ingredients: fenugreek seed, blessed thistle, anise seed, nettle leaf, goat's rue, and fennel leaf. These supplements can be in tea, pill, or tonic form and are available organically by companies like Motherlove, Weleda, Wishgarden, and Traditional Medicines. Some of these companies also offer supplements to decrease supply, when you are wishing to wean your baby.

Mastitis treatments
Mastitis is a painful condition that occurs when some of the milk ducts within the breast become infected. Plugged ducts can also plague breastfeeding women. Organic compresses, tinctures, and teas are all available to help with these issues breastfeeding moms face.

Salves for painful or cracked nipples
Putting salve on your nipples when your baby is brand new is helpful to ease discomfort often experienced when first beginning to breast-feed. Organic salves (also called butters) are available that have ingredients such as shea butter, cocoa butter, and calendula (which has healing properties). While lanolin-based creams (such as that made my Lansinoh) are very effective, organic options may be more favorable especially since there is a possibility that your baby will be ingesting some of it. These organic nipple creams and butters do not have to be washed off before feeding your baby.

Breast pads
These pads are placed within the nursing bra to catch leaks and guard against chaffing. Organic breast pads are soft and absorbent and are available from companies such as www.natureschild.com, and at Motherhood Maternity.

Bottles
Many mothers who breast-feed will pump breastmilk and freeze it so that it can be used later, or when mother is not available. While storing in plastic is the most convenient option, there are concerns that compounds within the plastic (specifically bisphenol-A) can leach into the milk. Plastic bottles that are bisphenol-A-free are made by companies such as Born-Free. Evenflo sells bottles that are glass, which are not as convenient, but are much safer.

Sites for purchasing the organic products I have listed include, www.preciousarrows.com, and www.traditionalmedicines.com. One of the largest sellers of all-natural, organic breast-feeding supplies at www.earthmamaangelbaby.com. You can also search for and find many of these products on eBay.

Organic breast-feeding supplies, like most other organic options, tend to be more expensive. But when using organic products, you can be assured that your infant is coming into contact with only natural ingredients and that you are giving him a great head start in life.