Cabbage leaf wrap

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) is one of the oldest vegetables and has been cultivated since ancient times. Cabbage is used as a food, but also in phytotherapy. Cabbage juice was used for constipation, as a laxative, and also for poisoning, headaches and sunstroke.

Randomized, controlled studies show an effect of cabbage poultices on osteoarthritis of the knees, with significant improvement compared to previous treatment and an identical effect compared to diclofenac pain gel (Lauche R et al.2016). The intensity of knee pain was significantly reduced in the charcoal gel group and the diclofenac group, and mobility and quality of life were improved identically with both treatment regimens. Further studies showed an improvement in breast inflammation during breastfeeding with a correspondingly extended breastfeeding period (Boy B et al. 2012).

Savoy cabbage and white cabbage are mainly used as a cabbage poultice.

The main indications are arthritis, rheumatism, inflammatory arthrosis, joint effusion, tension pain, phlebitis, mastitis, insect bites and bruises.

Directions: Roll the cabbage leaves flat on a cloth, applying pressure until the juice comes out. Wrap the flattened leaves in the cloth and warm them (hot water bottle, heater). Then place the cabbage leaves on the area to be treated, cover with the cloth soaked in cabbage juice and secure with a gauze bandage. Leave on for at least one hour or overnight, then wash off and treat the skin if necessary (oil). 1-2 x / day.