Breastmilk is undoubtedly nature's superfood for infants, packed with essential nutrients, antibodies, and other compounds that support a baby's growth and development. But did you know that the amazing properties of breastmilk go far beyond just its nutritional benefits? Emerging research is uncovering exciting new ways that breastmilk can be used therapeutically, even for adult skin conditions.
A recent review published in the Turkish Archives of Pediatrics analysed 45 studies on the use of human milk for purposes other than infant feeding. The researchers found a "general conclusion about the positive effects of human milk in the treatment of tertiary (adult) persons in addition to the prevention and treatment of common maternal and infantile diseases."
So what is it about breastmilk that makes it so potentially useful as a therapeutic agent? Breastmilk contains a complex blend of bioactive components, including:
- Antibodies and immune cells that can help fight infection
- Anti-inflammatory compounds that can soothe irritation
- Growth factors that promote healing
- Antimicrobial properties that can inhibit harmful bacteria
This unique composition allows breastmilk to do much more than just nourish a baby. It also has the potential to be used as a natural, low-cost treatment for a variety of skin conditions - in infants and adults alike.
For infants, breastmilk shows promise as a therapy for things like diaper rash, eczema, and other types of skin irritation or allergies. One study found that applying breastmilk topically helped clear up eczema in babies better than standard over-the-counter creams.
But the benefits may not be limited to just babies. The review also noted that breastmilk could serve as an "accessible, safe, and suitable alternative treatment for the treatment of allergic skin and mucous tissue damage in infants and mothers" - hinting at potential uses for adult skin issues as well.
In fact, some people are already using breastmilk to treat everything from acne to sunburns, with anecdotal reports of impressive results. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of breastmilk may make it effective for soothing inflammation, fighting infection, and promoting healing.
Of course, more research is still needed to fully understand and harness the therapeutic power of this incredible biological fluid. But the existing evidence suggests that breastmilk may just be one of nature's most versatile and underutilised medicines.
So the next time you think of breastmilk, don't just think about infant nutrition. Think about all the other amazing ways this remarkable substance could be used to improve skin health and well-being - for babies and adults alike.
The full study can be found here https://europepmc.org/article/MED/35781228
