Breastfeeding and TCM

Traditionally in Chinese Medicine the postpartum period is used as a time of recovery and care for the new mom and  is a time to focus on nourishment for both mother and baby.

A mother’s ability to recover from labour and delivery is believed to be directly reflected in the quantity and quality of breast milk she produces and therefore proper care, nutrition and relaxation (where possible!) is very important.

Breast milk is considered to be an extension of the blood in TCM and as a result proper nourishment and rest used to engender Qi (chee) can be vital in healthy and efficient breastfeeding.

Using congees (medicinal porridges) and moxabustion to help nourish the body as well as acupuncture to ensure proper circulation to the breasts are significant ways that TCM can help make breastfeeding an abundant source of nourishment for new babes.

At the Elements of Health Centre, we strive to make these traditional values both practical and accessible to new moms.