The Healing Properties of Breast Milk

Breastfeeding is such an amazing advantage for both a mother and nursling. It has long been established that both parties benefit from the antibodies and nutrients in breast milk.

The mother reduces her chances of developing cancer, as well as osteoporosis. The baby also boosts his immunity and starts a healthy eating habit, reducing his chances of obesity. Those are but a few effects of breast milk and some homeopaths claim that breast milk can be used for a variety of purposes. Here are a few:

Conjunctivitis/Infected Tear Duct- According to many naturalists and lactation consultants, squirting breast milk into an infected eye can clear up the condition as well as any topical, prescription antibiotics.

Diaper Rash- Again, the healing properties of the breast milk are supposed to work on this infection. It is recommended that you clean the area, coat it with breast milk, and then apply a barrier after it is completely dry.

Sore throat/Cold- Women have given their older, non-breastfed children expressed milk in a cup to soothe sore throats and to boost their immune system.

Make-Up Removal- Sounds crazy, but some swear by it. Hey, it couldn't hurt, could it?

Mosquito Bites- Dab a little breast milk on an itchy insect bite and feel instant relief- without the steroids from certain topical medications.

Stuffy Nose- Even I've done this when out of saline drops. It can be used to soften up your baby's mucous for the aspirator.

Ear Infection- Sore ears are supposedly soothed by breast milk.

Sore Nipples- This is highly regarded, as nipples can become very sore when beginning to nurse. Rubbing a little on sore, cracked nipples and allowing them to air-dry speeds up healing time.

While it is always best to consult a doctor when infections arise, most of these alternatives seem harmless. Whether they are accepted by the medical community is another matter, but many mothers have learned these tricks by trial and error (and without the influence of major drug companies).

It is scientific fact that 80% of the cells that make up breast milk contain antibodies. Many of the components are yet to be discovered, let alone reproduced in any lab. Keep these home remedies in mind if you are a nursing mother.