Hi Diane and lactnetters -

Arnica ( Arnica latifolia, or A. montana) is not considered safe for internal
use - and as for external use, most books will say not to use with open wounds
or broken skin.

I suspect it best to  consider the engorged breast (or perhaps even a non-
engorged lactating breast) as particularily able to absorb chemicals.  Some
1/3 of ethnobotanically noted herb use for lactation is external, which
mystifies some medicinal chemists. The authors of the recent article/letter on
garlic burns to lactating breast suggested this possibility as a contributing
factor in that incident.  This sensitivity would explain how on earth cabbage
leaves might work for engorgement ( chemicals in the leaves only a partial
explanation).

Have hard time seeing wisdom of using herbal products used anywhere near where
baby might get into mouth - only doubly so when the herb is not generally
considered safe for internal use!   As well, engorgement and sore nipples
treatments are usually necessary and initiated when baby very young and
vulnerable, a time when any treatment should be especially as risk-free as
possible.

Regards,
Sheila Humphrey
BSc RN IBCLC
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