In a message dated 96-10-15 00:06:30 EDT, you write: << >>Graphites which has been effective too (if you buy this don't be >>surprised it is a black colored cream, not very atrtactive but >>effective)<< This wouldn't contain lead by any chance? What makes it black? Have you looked it up? Composition? Graphite or lead pencils are terms used interchangeably by some. What goes on the breast must be safe to eat >> Maureen - To answer your question, this particular preparation is Graphites Breast Balm. Graphite apparently has skin healing properties. It is manufactured by a reputable homeopathic company and as with all homeopathic medications it is approved by the FDA. The label indicates "for temporary relief of soreness and nipple care during pregnancy and nursing. Of course, as with all FDA approved drugs it also carries the "warning- if you are pregnant or nursing a baby seek the advise of a health professional before using this product. What's a mother to do?!? Anyway, I have used this personally, but not being a health professional I don't "prescribe" this to mothers I do sell the hypoallergenic lanolin products though. Homeopathy is a very specific form of alternative medicine that uses microdoses of natural substances to trigger the body's self -healing power.It is not a blanket term used to describe home remedies or even herbal medicine. It was the most popular form of medicine practiced in the States at the turn of the century and fell out of fashion with the invention of vaccines, medical schools stopped teaching it. While still popular in Europe, homeopathy is becoming more widely used since most homeopathic medicines are cheap, over the counter, safe with no side effects. It is frustrating that it is so under used especially with nursing mothers. (For many common problems there are very specific homeopathic medicines)There are not enough medical professionals around trained to use it effectively. LC's (unless they are licensed to practice medicne)CANNOT use homeopathy but we can direct people to resourses.... Herbal medicine is not yet approved as a recognized form of medicine by the FDA it is certainly a gray area for us . What does everyone think? Is it safe for us to recommend vitamin and nutritional supplements, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus for yeast infections (now I tell people what it is and tell them to call their doctor for permission to take it). What is the definition of "practicing medicine"? Inquiring minds want to know...... Robin B. Frees, BA, IBCLC Malvern PA