It’s difficult enough dealing with the stress of everyday life, but when you add in the anxiety that comes with fibrocystic breast or breast lumps, it can feel like too much to handle. You’re not alone – breast cysts are very common.

While a breast lump is usually benign (non-cancerous), it can still lead to discomfort of breast tenderness and cause concerns around breast health.

But there is hope! Ayurveda offers a holistic natural approach to dissolve the breast cysts and prevent them from coming back.

In this article, we will discuss the causes of breast cysts from an Ayurvedic perspective, as well as guide you with Ayurvedic treatment options and some yoga poses that can help to dissolve breast cysts. We will also share dietary and lifestyle recommendations for preventing and treating breast cysts. Let’s begin!

Breast Cysts

Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs and lumps that develop in the breast tissue. They are common and can occur at any age, but are most likely to develop during your 40s and 50s.

Breast cysts are usually benign (non-cancerous), but they can be painful or uncomfortable and may cause anxiety due to their unpredictable nature. One may have single or multiple breast cysts present.

Cysts can range in size from tiny (pea-sized) to large (grapefruit-sized), and they may occur in one or both breasts. While most breast cysts resolve on their own, some may require treatment from a healthcare professional.

Types of Breast Lumps

The cysts of the breasts can be benign or malignant in nature. The type of breast cyst classification is done based on the size and constitution of the breast lump:

Benign Breast Lumps

Nearly 80% of the breast lumps are benign and not cancerous. They are usually cysts or tumors, which may require surgery to remove them if they create too much breast pain and discomfort.

However, they will not spread to other parts of the body and they are not life threatening. Here are the types of benign breast lumps:

Fibrocystic breast lumps

They are benign (non-cancerous) growths that commonly occur in women between the ages of 30 and 50. Fibrocystic breast lumps often feel like firm, rubbery knots and can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. While fibrocystic breast lumps are not cancerous, they can be painful and uncomfortable.

There are a variety of factors that can contribute to the development of fibrocystic breast lumps, including hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and stress.

The size and tenderness of fibrocystic breast lumps usually increases before menstruation and decreases after the period ends. It is uncommon in menopausal women, unless she is taking hormones or HRT (hormone replacement therapy).

Fibroadenomas

These are the most common type of benign breast tumor. They typically occur in women under the age of 30. Fibroadenomas may grow larger during pregnancy and shrink after menopause.

While the exact cause of fibroadenomas is unknown, they are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. Estrogen appears to play a role in their growth, as they are typically found in women of childbearing age.

These are usually not painful and often can be moved around the breast with gentle strokes.

Papillomas

Papillomas are small, fleshy growths that can develop on the skin or mucous membranes. They usually grow in the lining of the mammary ducts, near the nipple. Papillomas often result in nipple discharge, either clear or bloody, from the nipple.

Breast Cancer and Malignant Tumors

Malignant breast tumors (breast cancer) if not detected and treated early will continue to grow. In this case, the cancerous cells will invade and destroy normal tissue near the tumor.

If it is not stopped, the cancer can reach and affect the nearby lymph nodes. From there, the cancerous cells can also spread to other areas of the body through the lymph system or bloodstream.

• Early stage breast cancer
• Advanced stage breast cancer

Ayurvedic Perspective of Breast Health

Breasts are mainly composed of lymph, fatty adipose tissue and glandular tissue (for milk production in women). The glandular tissues that compose the breasts are sensitive to estrogen, progesterone, cortisol and prolactin levels in the body.

Lymph is a bodily fluid that helps fight infection. The lymphatic system’s job is to get rid of toxins and wastes from the body.

According to Ayurveda, all the body fluids like lymph, plasma, blood and breast milk are contained within the rasa dhatu whereas fatty tissue in the body constitute the meda dhatu.

Thus, breast health is largely determined by the health of the rasa dhatu and the meda dhatus. In addition, the circulation of lymph through the breast channels (srotas) provides nourishment to the breast tissues and keeps them free from toxins.

Since breasts largely constitute fatty tissues and lymph, they are highly prone to develop benign cysts, knots and tumors whenever there is a blockade to lymph flow or in case of excess fatty tissues.

Your Emotional Well Being and Breast Health

Breast health is not only determined by the physical body, but also reflects our emotional well being. When we experience stress, pain, loss or undergo emotional turbulence in terms of anger, jealously, judgement; the health of the breasts is compromised.

Chronic stress and undigested emotions can change the quality of the breast tissue, thus affecting the size and shape of the breasts.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Breast Cysts

In Ayurveda, breast cysts are considered to be an imbalance in the Vata and Kapha doshas. When Pitta Dosha is involved, it leads to signs of infection, inflammation, burning sensation and breast pain.

Vata Imbalance and Small Breasts

Vata dosha typically involves less fatty tissue, thus results in smaller breasts size. An imbalance in vata dosha may lead to dryness of breast tissue and presence of hard and irregular breast lumps. Vata imbalance leads to poor circulation of vital fluids like blood and lymph through their breasts, thus causing shrinking, wrinkling and smaller breasts.

Kapha Imbalance and Large Breasts

Kapha imbalance can leads to bigger sized breasts as a result of either water retention or higher fatty tissues in the breasts. Often water retention, heaviness and breast tenderness happen during ovulation and menstruation.

Larger breast cysts and bigger breast size due to excess fatty tissue could also be a risk factor for cancer. Thus, care needs to be taken if you are experiencing any of the additional symptoms such as sluggishness, swelling, congestion and nipple discharge.

Ayurvedic approach for breast cysts is directed towards treating the root cause of a patient’s specific symptoms. Depending on the underlying dosha imbalance, your Ayurvedic practitioner will guide you with specific herbs, diet and lifestyle to treat breast cysts holistically.

Ayurvedic Medicine to Dissolve Breast Cysts Naturally

There are many Ayurvedic medicines and herbal remedies that are highly effective in the treatment of breast cysts. These herbs are potent anti-inflammatory agents and rich source of micro nutrients.

Thus, proper intake of Ayurvedic herbs under the guidance of an experienced Ayurvedic doctor can help to detoxify the body, act as nutritional supplements, dissolve breast lumps and promote overall breast health.

1. Aloe vera
2. Shatavari
3. Anantmool (Indian Sarsaparilla)
4. Turmeric
5. Kachnar Guggulu
6. Varuna
7. Triphala
8. Ashwagandha
9. Brahmi
10. Tulsi
11. Licorice
12. Fennel
13. Coriander

Diet and Foods to Reduce and Dissolve Breast Cysts

Ayurveda recommends a diet that is light and easy to digest. The following are some specific dietary recommendations for preventing and treating breast cysts:

1. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. These are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients that help protect the body against free radical damage and reduce inflammation.

2. Eat whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, oats, and barley. These are rich in fiber which helps to eliminate toxins from the body and reduce the risk of developing cancerous growths.

3. Include beans and legumes in your diet. These are rich in protein and phytoestrogens, which can help to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

4. Include fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines in your diet. These are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

5. Limit your intake of dairy products. Dairy products contain hormones that can stimulate the growth of breast tissue and increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

6. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. These substances can increase the levels of estrogen in the body and worsen the symptoms of breast cysts.

7. Drink plenty of water . This will help to flush toxins out of the body and reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

8. Foods that are high in fat, salt, and sugar should be avoided.

9. Avoid spicy, fried, and processed foods can also aggravate breast cysts.

Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips to Improve Breast Health

Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that aims to prevent and treat illness by promoting balance in the body. One way to maintain balance in the body is through diet and lifestyle.

There are certain lifestyle choices that can help prevent or treat breast cysts as they help to establish hormone balance, reduce stress and flush out excess hormones in the body (which often create hormonal imbalance symptoms as breast cysts). These include:

– Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not constrict the chest area

– Choose comfortable cotton bras that do not have metal underwire as it can restrict proper movement of lymph and lead to build up of toxins in the body

– Maintain healthy digestion and regular bowel movement to flush excess Estrogen from the body

– Apply hot compress and carry out gentle massage to improve circulation and remove blockade in the breast tissue

– Exercise regularly to promote circulation, balance hormones and maintain a healthy weight

– Practice yoga or meditation to relax, reduce and fight stress, tone up your body and promote hormone balance

– Get regular sleep to keep your hormones and detox systems in check

– Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking as they stimulate breast cyst formation

– Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats

Making these lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing breast cysts or improve the condition if you already have them.

Regular Breast Massage for Better Breast Health

Regular breast massage is one of the most effective ways to prevent and treat breast cysts. It helps to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, which can reduce the pain and inflammation associated with breast cysts. Additionally, regular breast massage can help to break up the formation of new cysts.

To perform a breast self-massage:

1. Start by using your fingertips to gently massage the outer edges of your breasts in a circular motion.

2. Slowly move inward toward the nipple, using small, gentle circles.

3. Be sure to massage the entire area around the nipple, not just the nipple itself.

4. Once you’ve reached the nipple, reverse direction and move back outwards in larger circles.

5. Repeat this process for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times per day.

Yoga Asana to Prevent and Cure Breast Cysts

Yoga is a great way to improve your overall breast health. There are many different yoga poses that can help to dissolve breast cysts. Yoga helps to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, which can help to reduce the size of breast cysts. Yoga also helps to reduce stress, which can contribute to the development of breast cysts.

There are many different yoga poses that can be beneficial for breast health. Some of the best poses for breast health include:

• Matsyasana (Fish Pose): This pose helps to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage. It also helps to reduce stress and tension in the chest.
• Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutation: This pose helps to increase blood circulation and also stimulates the lymphatic system, which is responsible for cleansing the body of toxins.
• Halasana (Plow Pose ): This pose helps to reduce stress and tension in the chest and shoulders. It also helps to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage.
• Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend): This pose helps to stretch the muscles of the chest and shoulders. It also helps to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Takeaway

Breast cysts are common in women over the age of 40, although they can occur at any age. Most of the time breast lumps and cysts are benign and they resolve on their own. Yet, if you are experiencing breast lumps, nipple discharge and or painful breast cysts; it is important to speak to a doctor to find out the cause.

In some cases, breast cysts may indicate presence of malignant cells that can spread the tumors to other parts of the body. In some cases, even benign cysts may need treatment to manage symptoms and reduce the effects of the condition.

However, in other cases, you may be able to manage your symptoms and find relief with simple changes in your diet and lifestyle.

Ayurveda offers effective natural ways to treat and dissolve breast cysts. Ayurvedic diet, lifestyle and medication provides a holistic natural avenue for permanent relief from health symptoms at the root cause level.

Consult with Medhya’s Ayurvedic Health Experts to get your personalised health plan involving prescription for Ayurvedic medicine, diet, yoga and lifestyle guidelines.

FAQ

1. Does yoga help to dissolve breast cysts?

Yoga has been around for centuries and is known for its many benefits. The practice can help to improve flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. Practicing yoga on regular basis can help to dissolve breast cysts over the time as the gentle stretching and twisting motions of yoga can help to break up the cysts. Additionally, the deep breathing associated with yoga helps to improve circulation and promote detoxification, which can also help to reduce the size of cysts. While yoga may not provide you immediate results, practicing yoga on a regular basis will dissolve breast cysts over a period of few weeks or months depending on the severity of the symptoms. It is certainly worth a try for those who are looking for a natural treatment option.

2. Which are the foods that shrink breast cysts?

There are many foods that can help to shrink breast cysts. One of the most effective is turmeric.Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin can help to reduce the size of breast cysts and prevent them from recurring. Other helpful foods include ginger, garlic, cumin, and fenugreek. These spices have all been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce the size of breast cysts. In addition, they provide numerous other health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and protecting against cancer. Thus, including these spices in your diet is a great way to promote overall health while also reducing the risk of breast cysts.

3. Do breast cysts go away naturally?

Cysts are non-cancerous, round growths that can form in any part of the body. They are often filled with fluid or other substances, and can range in size from a small pimple to a large grapefruit. Breast cysts are relatively common, and usually occur in women between the ages of 30 and 50. While they are not cancerous, they can be painful and may cause changes in the breast tissue. In some cases, a cyst may need to be removed surgically. However, many breast cysts go away on their own, without any treatment. If a cyst is small and does not cause pain, it is often best to leave it alone. However, if a cyst is large or painful, it may be necessary to drain the fluid or remove the cyst surgically. Cysts typically recur after surgery, so it is important to monitor the area for new growths. Cysts that continue to grow or cause pain may be indicative of a more serious problem, such as breast cancer. Therefore, it is important to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic doctor if you have any concerns about breast cysts.

4. How do you dissolve a breast cyst naturally?

Breast cysts are small, round, fluid-filled sacs that develop within the breasts. While benign, they can cause pain and tenderness. Many women seek to dissolve their breast cysts naturally, and there are a number of effective treatments. One popular option is black seed oil. This oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Applying black seed oil to the affected area can help to reduce swelling and pain. Other effective treatments include evening primrose oil and turmeric. Evening primrose oil is rich in gamma linolenic acid, which has been shown to reduce the size of breast cysts. Turmeric, meanwhile, is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that can help to relieve pain and tenderness. When used topically, these natural remedies can effectively dissolve breast cysts.

5. Can Ayurveda cure fibroadenoma?

Fibroadenoma is a type of benign breast tumor that is made up of both glandular tissue and connective tissue. Although it is not cancerous, it can still cause pain, tenderness, and abnormal breast changes. Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that originated in India. It is based on the principle that good health depends on a balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Ayurvedic treatment involves root cause diagnosis and patient specific recommendation for diet, exercise, and herbal medicines to support natural functioning and balance of the body.

Ayurvedic treatment for fibroadenoma is effective in shrinking the size of cysts and removing the cysts altogether. Herbal medicines such as kachanar guggulu, ashoka and lodhra can provide relief from painful tender breasts, detox and shrink the size of breast cysts in 3-4 weeks or more depending on the size of the cysts. If you are considering using Ayurveda to treat your fibroadenoma, it is important to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner, who can advise you according to your health symptoms.

Medhya Herbals brings you more than 40 years of experience in Ayurvedic healing with herbal medication, diet and lifestyle. To consult with Medhya’s Ayurvedic experts, schedule your consultation here.

6. Do Fibrocystic Breasts Go Away?

Fibrocystic breast disease leads to generalized breast lumpiness. Fibrocystic breasts can happen in different ways, thus depending on the size and degree of fibrous cysts the condition can be considered serious (potential risk of cancer cells development later in life) or it can be left to resolve on its own.

Also known as fibrocystic breast condition, fibrous breasts, fibrocystic changes, chronic cystic mastitis and benign breast disease, it is a condition that commonly affects women of childbearing age.

Fibrocystic breast disease is thought to be caused by an imbalance in the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This imbalance can cause an increase in the size and number of breast cysts.

The main symptom is the presence of large, painful cysts in the breasts. These cysts can make it difficult to wear certain types of clothing and can cause significant discomfort.

Fibrocystic breast condition can be effectively treated in Ayurveda through use of herbal medicines, by removing the root cause and with healthy diet and lifestyle habits such as eating a nutritious diet, stress management and regular exercise.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove particularly large or painful cysts.

7. Can You Feel the Difference Between a Breast Cyst and a Tumor?

A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac within the breast. They are usually not cancerous and are often found in women during their childbearing years. Breast cysts can cause a dull ache or a sharp pain that gets worse when lying down or when the breast is compressed. They may also feel tender to the touch. Breast tumors, on the other hand, are growths of abnormal cells within the breast tissue. They can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Breast tumors may cause a lump or mass that can be felt under the skin. The lump may be hard or soft, rounded or irregular in shape. It may also cause nipple discharge, changes in breast size or shape, dimpling of the skin, or redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

References

Different Kinds of Breast Lumps

Breast Anatomy, Allen Gabriel, MD

Ayurvedic supportive therapy in the management of breast cancer

Boyle C, et al. Caffeine consumption and fibrocystic breast disease: a case-control epidemiologic study. JNCI 1984;72(5):1015-19.

Rose D, et al. Effect of a low-fat diet on hormone levels in women with cystic breast disease. I. Serum steroids and gonadotropins JJCK 1987;78(4):623-626.