Breast cysts are common and typically benign, though they may cause symptoms in some cases. They’re particularly common among younger women (below age 50), but they can occur in women of any age. They aren’t a sign of emerging breast cancer, but they can make it more difficult to identify breast cancer if it is present.
In Chinese medicine, the herb Qing Pi is the preferred treatment choice for breast cysts.
What Causes Breast Cysts and How Are They Treated?
Breast cysts are the result of glandular tissue taking on additional fluid in the breasts. There isn’t a clear reason why breast cysts form, but researchers believe it may be due to natural hormonal fluctuations.
In most instances, breast cysts do not cause symptoms. If symptoms are present, though, they may include the following:
- A small lump in the breast that can be moved around
- Breast pain or tenderness
- Nipple discharge
If symptoms are not present, treatment is usually not recommended. If treatment is required, though, the most common option is to drain the cyst.
Qing Pi: A Beneficial Botanical That Can Treat Breast Cysts
Qing Pi is the Chinese term for an unripe tangerine peel, and in Chinese medicine it’s typically used to improve liver, gallbladder and stomach function. It’s important for Qing Pi to be prepared before it ripens, as the ripe version of the tangerine peel – termed Chen Pi – has a different purpose in Chinese medicine.
The liver, gallbladder and stomach also happen to be important organs for breast health in Chinese medicine, as the pathways that connect them run along the front of the body – in line with the breasts. Practitioners believe that poor flow of Qi – the body’s essential life energy – in the liver, gallbladder, and stomach may promote the development of breast cysts. By restoring proper Qi flow in these organs – something Qing Pi is effective at – better breast health and reduced presence of breast cysts can be achieved.