One in eight women will be affected by breast cancer at some point in their lives, according to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH. Although cancer is clearly the most serious condition of the breast, its not the only issue of concern when it comes to breast health. Fibrocystic breast disease is the presence of benign cysts or lumps that can be painful. Breast pain, referred to as mastalgia, is a common among women. Some 10 percent of women experience moderate to severe breast pain in the days leading up to menstruation, according to the Mayo Clinic. Several herbs are suggested to promote breast health. Talk to your health care provider before taking herbs for medicinal reasons.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is used to relieve breast pain, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Flaxseed contains lignans or plant estrogens. Flaxseed has been studied as a possible adjunct treatment for breast cancer.
A Canadian animal study published in 2002 in the journal "Nutrition and Cancer" found flaxseed inhibited the growth and spread of breast cancer cells in mice. The research was conducted by the Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto in Ontario. The Mayo Clinic points out that human studies are needed to look into the possible effects flaxseed to prevent or treat breast cancer.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been extensively researched for it's cancer fight potential. The active substance in turmeric, curcumin, is believed to be powerful antioxidant. The results of test tube and animal studies suggests that curcumin may help prevent or treat breast cancer and several other cancers, according to University of Maryland Medical Center.
It remains uncertain if turmeric or curcumin has a role in preventing or treating human cancers, according to NIH. Breast cancer should be treated with conventional medications. Discuss herbal remedies and other alternative cancer therapies with your doctor.
Green Tea
Potent antioxidants contained in green tea called polyphenols appear to stunt the growth of breast cancer cells, according to the UMMC. A study published in May 2007 in the journal "Carcinogenensis" concluded that green tea consumption is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer. The study was lead by M. Zhang with the School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia. Ask your health care provider about using green tea to prevent or treat breast cancer.
Kelp
Kelp is rich in iodine and is believed to have antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties, according to the Clayton College of Natural Health. Kelp may help treat. fibrocystic breast disease. The herb is used in Japan to prevent breast cancer. Check with your doctor before taking kelp for breast health.
Evening Primose Oil
Evening primrose oil or EPO is often used to relieve premenstrual breast tenderness. EPO is an officially licensed treatment for breast pain in the United Kingdom, according to the UMMC. EPO may ease discomfort by altering the balance of fatty acids in breast cells, notes the Mayo Clinic.
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