Fibrocystic Breast Disease

Fibrocystic breast disease (FBD) is a common benign condition of premenopausal women that may or may not occur with the variance in hormonal levels experienced during the estrus cycle. Although many women display areas of relatively indistinct breast lumpiness, FBD refers to small benign tumors that are well-circumscribed and feel a like slippery marble to the touch. The primary symptoms of FBD are irregularly lumpy and swollen breasts that feel heavy, aching and sore. In most cases the pain is worst just prior to menstruation and as such can be considered to be a form of PMS (see PMS A and PMS H). In other cases however, the pain is ongoing with no cyclical change. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis as some of the symptoms resemble that of breast cancer. (Trickey 1998, 123-26; Berkow 1992, 1814-15; Rubin 2001, 540-42)

The exact cause of FBD still eludes researchers but it appears that it is aggravated by a relative estrogen excess. During the follicular phase of the estrus cycle estrogen stimulates the production of lactiferous glands and the supporting stromal layers of the breast. After ovulation, when progesterone elevations are elevated, prolactin levels begin to increase to trigger glandular changes in the breast. If implantation does not occur however, the newly formed breast apparatus begins to break down. It is thought that in FBD however, that the growth and development of new tissues in the breast is faster than the process of degeneration and resorption. Small pockets of cellular debris and trapped secretions are formed, and these may coalesce to form fluid-filled cysts. Although the cysts can be surgically excised the frequently reappear, and thus little treatment is offered. Women who have FBD however, have 4 times the risk of developing breast cancer, and thus some form of preventative treatment is appropriate. Further, women with low thyroid function have a greater incidence of FBD as well as breast cancer. (Trickey 1998, 123-26; Berkow 1992, 1814-15; Rubin 2001, 540-42)

The holistic treatment of fibrocystic breast disease is similar to that of PMS A and PMS H. Foods and beverages rich in methylxanthines such as coffee, tea, colas, and chocolate should be completely eliminated as the regular consumption of these compounds are implicated in the development of FBD. Organic iodine (0.25 mg daily), best taken in sea vegetables such as Kelp, is another important aspect of treatment if hypothyroidism is suspected, as is the elimination of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage, and legumes such as soy that have a thyrostatic activity. The primary treatment of FBD however is to enhance reduce the relative estrogen excess by increasing fiber intake and enhancing the hepatic conjugation of estrogens with the use of cholagogues. The latter approach is particularly appropriate as women who have less than three bowel movements per week have 4.5 times the risk of suffering from breast disorders include FBD and breast cancer. Important topical remedies include a poultice of Verbena (Verbena officinalis) or a fomentation of astringent herbs such as Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) and Oak bark (Quercus spp.). An infused castor oil or cream made with Poke root (Phytolacca decandra) (20% v/v) is very effective when applied topically over the affected areas on a daily basis. Important nutritional supplements to include are beta carotene (50,000 IU twice daily), vitamin E (800 IU daily), and GLA and EPA-rich oils (5-10 g daily) to inhibit inflammatory prostaglandin synthesis.