Nursing Mother's Healing Butter

kill Level: Beginner

What conditions it helps with: Cracked nipples, soreness from breastfeeding, dry breast skin, minor irritation, skin sensitivity during nursing, protective barrier before and after feeding

Why this is a great DIY recipe: Nursing mothers need skin healing products that are completely safe for babies to ingest, ruling out most commercial nipple creams containing lanolin (potential allergen), synthetic ingredients, or essential oils. This 2-ingredient formula costs about $3 to make versus $15-25 for commercial nursing balms. Pure shea butter has been used for centuries in West Africa by nursing mothers, and clinical studies show it reduces healing time for cracked skin by 40% compared to petroleum-based products. The formula is so pure you can apply it immediately before nursing with zero concerns.

Ingredients:

• Raw shea butter: 90ml (6 tablespoons)
• Extra virgin coconut oil: 30ml (2 tablespoons)

Instructions:

1. Melt shea butter and coconut oil together in a double boiler or heat-safe bowl over simmering water
2. Stir gently until completely liquified and combined (this takes about 3-4 minutes)
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes
4. Pour into small, wide-mouth glass jar for easy scooping
5. Place jar in refrigerator for 45-60 minutes to accelerate setting
6. Once solid, remove from refrigerator and store at room temperature
7. Apply a rice-grain-sized amount after each feeding and before bed

Customization Ideas:

• For severe cracking, increase shea butter to 105ml and reduce coconut oil to 15ml for firmer texture
• Add 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil for accelerated healing (pierce 2-3 capsules)
• Create single-use portions by pouring into silicone ice cube trays while still liquid
• Make a softer version for summer by using equal parts shea butter and coconut oil (60ml each)

Application Tips: Apply to clean, dry skin. No need to wash off before nursing—both ingredients are completely safe for baby consumption. For best results, apply after every feeding and once at bedtime.

Storage: Keeps for 8 months at room temperature. Store away from direct heat sources.