The Hidden Superpowers of Breastmilk
When people talk about breastfeeding, the focus is usually on the well-established benefits for the baby and the mother. From nutrition and bonding to immune support and hormonal balance, breastmilk has long been championed as nature’s perfect food. But the story doesn’t end there. What if we told you that breastmilk is more than just a source of nutrition? That it’s an all-natural, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, immune-boosting liquid that offers therapeutic uses far beyond feeding time?
This article explores the amazing things you can do with breastmilk, and healing powers beyond feeding, showing how this natural, antibody-rich liquid can be used to soothe rashes, treat minor cuts, relieve sore eyes, and even support the health of everyone in your household.
[ez-toc]
Breastmilk’s healing properties can benefit not only the nursing baby but the entire family. Packed with antibodies, living cells, enzymes, and anti-infective agents, this liquid gold has been used for centuries by mothers around the world as a remedy for a range of common ailments. It’s free, it’s natural, and it comes with a built-in delivery system.
What Makes Breastmilk So Extraordinary?
Breastmilk is more than just food; it’s a dynamic, living substance that evolves with your baby’s needs. Colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, is especially rich in immunoglobulins, growth factors, and white blood cells. These immune-boosting components help establish a strong foundation for your baby’s developing immune system.
As breastfeeding continues, the composition of breastmilk changes to adapt to your baby’s growth and health. This includes:
-
Immunoglobulin A (IgA): Coats the baby’s intestines and respiratory tract, preventing the entry of pathogens.
-
Lactoferrin: A protein that binds iron, starving harmful bacteria of what they need to thrive.
-
Lysozyme: An enzyme that breaks down bacterial cell walls.
-
White blood cells: Actively fight infection and stimulate immune responses.
-
Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs): Promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
While these components support infant health by reducing risks of illnesses like diarrhea, respiratory infections, asthma, and allergies, they can also provide natural healing solutions for other family members. Anecdotal evidence from mothers, lactation consultants, and even some healthcare providers suggests that breastmilk can be used topically and occasionally even orally to address a variety of minor ailments.
Let’s dive into the surprising and science-supported reasons why breastmilk deserves a place not just in your feeding routine, but also in your first aid kit.
1. Gunky Eyes and Minor Eye Irritations
Eye discharge and sticky eyes are common in newborns, often due to blocked tear ducts or minor irritations. Breastmilk, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory components, has been traditionally used to clear up these symptoms.
How to use it: Simply express a few drops of breastmilk into a sterilised dropper or syringe and gently place a drop into the corner of the affected eye. Alternatively, you can express milk directly from the breast onto the eye. The milk’s antibodies can help reduce mild inflammation and cleanse the area.
Science and safety: While scientific studies haven’t conclusively proven that breastmilk cures conjunctivitis, anecdotal reports show promising results. Doctors generally agree that breastmilk is safe to use in this context for minor symptoms, though it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or persist.
2. Cradle Cap Relief
Cradle cap (infantile seborrheic dermatitis) is a common, harmless condition characterised by scaly, flaky skin on a baby’s scalp. Though it usually resolves on its own, many parents seek remedies to help speed up the process.
Breastmilk application: Apply a small amount of breastmilk to the affected areas and gently massage it in. Let it sit for a while, then gently brush away the flakes with a soft baby brush. Some parents report significant improvements within 24–48 hours.
This gentle, non-toxic solution avoids the need for medicated shampoos or petroleum-based creams.
3. Cuts, Scrapes, and Minor Wounds
Just as you might reach for hydrogen peroxide or antiseptic cream for a scraped knee, breastmilk can serve a similar purpose—but naturally.
Why it works: The immunological components in breastmilk, particularly white blood cells, antibodies, and lysozyme, help fight off pathogens and reduce inflammation. Its natural soothing properties can calm a child who’s upset about a scraped elbow, and its pain-relieving qualities may even provide some comfort.
Pro tip: Keep some expressed milk in a clean container in the refrigerator for topical first aid use, especially if you’re exclusively pumping.
4. Ear Infections: Myth or Medicine?
Ear infections are a common concern for babies and toddlers. Some alternative health practitioners suggest that breastmilk can soothe the discomfort of mild outer ear infections, like swimmer’s ear.
Application method: A few drops of breastmilk placed in the outer ear canal may help soothe inflammation and reduce bacterial presence on the surface of the ear.
Caution: It’s crucial not to use breastmilk if a ruptured eardrum is suspected or if the infection is deep in the middle ear. Always consult your healthcare provider before trying this method. The internal ear environment is delicate, and any non-sterile fluid introduced improperly could potentially cause complications.
5. Sore or Cracked Nipples
Breastfeeding mothers often experience sore, chapped, or even cracked nipples, especially in the early days of nursing.
Breastmilk as a balm: The Australian Breastfeeding Association, among other health organisations, recommends using your milk to heal your nipples. After feeding, express a few drops and gently spread it over the nipple and areola. Allow the area to air-dry before covering it again.
Why it works: The anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties of breastmilk can help prevent infection, speed up healing, and reduce irritation. Unlike commercial nipple creams, breastmilk is always available, doesn’t contain lanolin (a potential allergen), and is 100% baby-safe.
6. Rashes, Bug Bites, and Itchy Skin
From diaper rash to mosquito bites, children (and adults) are prone to skin irritations. Breastmilk can be used as a gentle, soothing remedy.
Application: Dab a few drops on the irritated area using clean hands or a cotton pad. For diaper rash, apply during changes and allow to air dry before re-diapering.
Why it helps: The cooling, soothing effect of breastmilk, along with its germ-fighting properties, can reduce redness, relieve itching, and help clear up minor rashes more quickly. It’s a great option for sensitive baby skin that may react poorly to harsh creams or chemicals.
7. Baby Acne (and Possibly Teen Acne, Too!)
Newborn acne affects many babies in the first few weeks of life due to hormonal shifts after birth. Though generally harmless, parents often worry about how to treat it.
Solution: A few drops of breastmilk dabbed gently on the affected area can help reduce redness and inflammation. In many cases, the acne resolves on its own, but the added antimicrobial support from breastmilk may speed up the healing process.
Could it work for adults? While not extensively studied, some parents and even teenagers have tried using breastmilk to treat mild acne with anecdotal success. The natural presence of lauric acid—also found in coconut oil, a known antimicrobial—may play a role in its acne-fighting effects.
Beyond the Baby: More Unexpected Uses for Breastmilk
1. Teething Pain Relief
Frozen breastmilk popsicles (sometimes called “momsicles”) can offer soothing relief to teething infants. Not only do they numb the gums, but they also provide hydration and nutrients.
2. Nasal Congestion
Just as saline drops are used to loosen nasal mucus, breastmilk drops in the nose can help soften mucus and potentially aid in clearing a stuffy nose. Again, this isn’t a mainstream practice, but it’s been used safely in many cultures.
3. Eczema Soothing
For children with eczema or dry, irritated patches of skin, applying breastmilk directly can soothe itching and potentially reduce flare-ups. Some small studies have compared breastmilk favorably to hydrocortisone in terms of effectiveness on mild eczema.
The Science and Cultural Traditions Behind Breastmilk’s Healing Uses
While many of these uses are supported by anecdotal evidence and small-scale studies, breastmilk has been used medicinally in many cultures throughout history. From Indigenous communities in North America and Africa to traditional practices in India and Southeast Asia, mothers have long known about the healing power of their milk.
In terms of modern science, researchers are beginning to explore the possibilities of using breastmilk components in medical treatments. Some pharmaceutical companies are investigating lactoferrin and other breastmilk-derived substances as alternatives to antibiotics, particularly in the face of rising antimicrobial resistance.
When Not to Use Breastmilk Topically
While breastmilk is generally safe for most uses, it’s essential to know when to skip it:
-
Deep wounds or serious infections: Breastmilk isn’t a substitute for antibiotics or professional medical care.
-
Eye infections with yellow/green pus or swelling: These may require prescription antibiotics.
-
Ear pain with fever or discharge: Needs immediate medical attention.
-
Allergic reactions or hives: Should be treated according to a doctor’s advice.
Always consult a healthcare provider before using breastmilk in unfamiliar ways, especially on non-infants or in serious conditions.
Conclusion: Nature’s Own Healing Elixir
Breastmilk truly is an incredible substance. Its benefits don’t stop at nutrition—they extend to healing, protecting, and soothing in ways that continue to surprise modern science. Whether it’s helping clear a gunky eye, treating a rash, or speeding up recovery from a scrape, this natural remedy is a multitasking marvel.
In a world full of products promising healing, comfort, and immune support, breastmilk stands out as a humble, accessible, and time-tested option for many everyday ailments. So, next time you’re faced with a minor health issue in your home, don’t forget about the superpower you may already have on hand—literally.
