It doesn’t seem fair, but full breasts actually slow milk production, so feeding less frequently and feeding one side at each feed can be a way of slowing milk production in the breast that is not being used. Expressing excess milk off will only increase supply.

Using hot flannels placed on the breast/s and leaning over a towel to let them ‘leak’ can take a little pressure off, or stand in a hot shower and let them do their thing. Cabbage leaves fresh from the fridge and lightly bruised can provide symptomatic relief. It is said that cabbage leaves contain an enzyme that can slow milk production in some women, but in my experience it would take an awful lot of this enzyme to halt truly excessive milk production!

For blocked ducts and painful lumps massage the affected area gently down towards the nipple while the baby is feeding. Take care not to bruise the delicate breast tissue. Vary your hold and the baby’s position on the breast each feed to ensure that different parts of the breast are drained efficiently.

A herbal cream containing tinctures (not essential oils) of Pokeroot (Phytolacca decandra), and equal parts of Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) and Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) can be used.

Pokeroot is a herb that promotes drainage of the breast via the lymphatic system. It is a relatively toxic herb and used in very small doses by herbalists (for example, no more than 10 ml per week internally).

Peppermint provides a cooling sensation and contains constituents that may reduce milk production.

Chamomile is anti-inflammatory.

The cream can be applied sparingly after feeds and needs to be washed off prior to feeds. It is preferable to have a herbalist or herbal dispensary prepare the cream.

An infusion of Sage (Salvia purpurens) can be used to slow milk production, and in sufficient quantities can help stop milk production during weaning.

One to three cups a day of Sage infusion should help slow production.

Sage oil is not used topically or internally due to its toxicity. It contains a constituent called thujone that has convulsive properties. Higher doses of Sage should only be used once the baby is no longer breastfeeding.