-IBIS-1.7.6-
tx
reproductive system
Fibrocystic breasts
Integrative Therapies
Home Care
This condition is characterized by localized swellings, pain, and tenderness of the breast as well as the presence of cysts, which may vary in size. It most often occurs pre-menstrually, due to the rise of the hormone estrogen, and usually involves both breasts.
It is recommended that women learn to self examine their breasts, doing this easy procedure at least once a month approximately 7 to 10 days after the day menses starts. Is important to learn to recog-nize the cystic areas.
A physician should be consulted if there is uncertainty about the quality of a lump or if there is any discharge from the nipples.
THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED FOR FIBROCYSTIC BREASTS AND CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:
1. A multivitamin taken daily, according to the manufacturer's suggestion. When choosing a multivitamin, make sure it is free of sugar, yeast, and artificial ingredients.
2. Vitamin B6 100 milligrams twice a day.
3. Vitamin B-complex 50 milligrams 2 times a day.
4. Vitamin E 600 Units per day.
5. Beta-carotene 150,000 Units per day. Pregnant women (or women who may become pregnant) should not take more than 15,000 Units a day.
6. Flaxseed oil 1 tablespoon or 2 capsules per day.
7. Choline and Methionine 1,000 milligrams each, daily. These are amino acids used in an attempt to aid the liver in correcting the hormonal imbalance that leads to cyst formation.
8. Iodine 2 micrograms per day or 1 kelp tablet, which contains iodine.
REGARDING THE PROPER DIET FOR FIBROCYSTIC BREASTS:
1. The most effective change for fibrocystic breasts is the removal of caffeine-containing foods from the diet, such as coffee, tea, sodas, and chocolate.
2. Decrease the amount of meat in the diet, especially the commercially raised type since it contains excessive amounts of hormones, which will aggravate the problem. Of course, any other source of estrogen such as birth control pills will tend to worsen the problem as well.
3. Constipation can also aggravate this condition. If you suffer from constipation, increase the amount of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in the diet, and drink 8 to 10 cups of water a day. If you need further information, listen to our program on constipation (number 271).
HERBS USED FOR FIBROCYSTIC BREASTS:
Iris Versicolor and Poke Root in a tincture form (which is a liquid herbal extract), 5 drops of each tincture 3 times a day. This can be continued for up to 3 months.
Caution these herbs are contraindicated in pregnancy.
HOMEOPATHY:
From the following homeopathic remedies, the one that best matches the symptoms is chosen. This is taken 3 times a day while the symptoms are present, dissolving 3 pellets under the tongue.
Sepia 6C: For breast swelling associated with increased irritability.
Phytolacca 6C: For multiple nodules or when the breasts are hard and sensitive.
Conium 12C: For breast swelling with a sticking pain in the nipples.
Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be helpful for individuals with fibrocystic breasts. Consultation with a health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct medicine.
Clinic
Footnotes
BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.