Menstruation pain affects over fifty percent menstruating women. This is a kind of throbbing pain in the lower abdomen region which occurs during the start of a menstrual cycle and last for all days. The hormone like substance ‘rostaglandins’ is the cause behind all this pain. During menstruation, the uterine wall sheds its inner lining and this process is assisted by prostaglandins.
This hormone also plays an important role during delivery and is responsible for the contraction of uterus muscles which causes pain in the abdomen area. Menstrual cramps are of two types, namely, primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea.
While primary dysmenorrhea is a normal condition which is not due to any medical problems, secondary dysmenorrhea is much more severe and is due to some pelvic problems such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, etc. Here are some herbs that will reduce the menstruation pain.
Best Herbal Remedies For Menstruation Pain
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds contain many healing compounds and have been used since ancient times to give relief from hormone-related disorders. They are rich in beneficial fatty acids and contain hormone-balancing lignans and plant estrogens. These help in stabilising the hormone production in women, and provide relief from the pain during menstruation.
Flaxseeds also reduce production of prostaglandins, thus helping reduce the period pain. Eat two tablespoons of flaxseeds every day during your periods.
Valerian
Valerian has been used since ancient times as an effective sedative and antispasmodic. It relaxes the spamodic contractions during menstruation and also relaxes your body, helping you sleep well. To reduce menstruation pain, have some valerian root tea at bed time.
You can prepare this tea by boiling some valerian roots in a cup of water. Strain and have this tea during your painful periods. Valerian tincture is also available in health stores and you can have one teaspoon every four hours, in case of severe pain.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh has been used since ancient times to reduce menstruation pain to a large extent, effectively. It is especially very helpful in reducing spasmodic menstrual cramps that can cause a lot of pain in some women. Black cohosho has a very relaxing effect on the uterus and provides lot of relief during menstruation pain.
Black cohosh tincture is available in health stores. Have a quarter spponful every three hours, in case of severe pain. Avoid having it if you are pregnant.
Cramp Bark
Cramp Bark, as the name indicates, is used to relieve cramps. Herbalists claim this is the best herb for pain relief. When taken for menstruation pain, it is very effective as it contains uterine relaxants, such as scopoletin, and general antispasmodics.
So, if you suffer from menstrual cramps that are spasmodic, this is the best herb that provides relief. Cramp bark tea is little cumbersome to prepare, instead opt for the tincture which is easily available and much easier to ingest.
Black Haw
Black haw helps to relax the uterus provide relief from menstruation pain. Its root bark contains many active contituents that are uterine relaxants. If you are suffering from menstrual cramps, low back pain and pelvic pains, this herb is your saviour.
You can have a quarter teaspoon of cramp bark tincture every three hours in order to get relief from menstruation pain. Avoid having it during pregnancy.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil contains esters which have a very calming and soothing effect on the abdominal muscles as they reduce muscle spasms. The anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties of this essential oil is very helpful in providing relief from menstruation pain.
Massage some lavender oil on your lower back and abdomen area. Your pain vanishes in just fifteen minutes! The calming smell of this oil also helps regulate the hormones in your body.
Ginger
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can be used as an effective remedy for menstruation pain. It provides lot of relief from menstrual cramps. Crush some ginger roots and boil in some water for five minutes.
Strain it and have this herbal tea as it is or sweeten with some honey if you find this mixture a little strong for your taste. This mixture should be taken after meals in order to get relief from menstruation pain and to reduce the flow.
Basil Leaves
Caffeic acid is the main component of basil leaves. It is a natural agent that helps cure menstruation pain. It acts quite fast as it gets absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth, providing you quick relief from the pain. The compounds in basil leaves also prevent formation of prostglandins which are responsible for causing the cramps.
So just nibble on a few fresh basil leaves every few hours during menstruation, or prepare a herbal tea and have it regularly. But just ensure that you do not overdo it! You do not have to live with the menstruation pain forever. Try these herbal remedies to get relief from this condition.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
