Regarding the use of bag balm...for those of you in urban areas...this is a
commonly used veternary ointment used to treat the teats/udders of live
stock.  I had never heard of such a thing until I moved to semi-rural
Oregon.  So, is the mom nursing again?  What's her concern?   If she's not
nursing, then it's her call; however, I'd say there's better treatments.
If she's nursing again, then bag balm is NOT recommended as a topical
treatment since it will be ingested.  The only topical recommended by LLL
is Lansinoh.  I'm going to sound like a witch doctor again, but topically
worn cabbage leaves have been tremendously successful in reducing
engorgement,(used either having been microwaved 30 or so seconds or rolling
pinned to break up some of the fibrous material and release some vapors).
Also, parsley is one of the best diuretics out (used in capsule or
concentrated tincture).  Sage and peppermint both surpress lactation too.
My experience is that commercially prepared teas are not very effective, so
check the health food section/store for concentrated capsules and
tinctures.  'Hope this helps.
Chris

: )   :  )   : )  : )   :  )   : )  : )   :  )   : )  : )   :  )   : )

Chris Hafner-Eaton, PhD, MPH, CHES, IBCLC email: [log in to unmask]
   HSR & Educational Consultant         fax:   541 753 7340
  Health Improvement Research Services  voice:   541 753-7340
               **CHANGE THE WORLD, NURTURE A CHILD!**
: )   :  )   : )  : )   :  )   : )  : )   :  )   : )  : )   :  )   : )