Periods, every month, are nature’s way of telling us that we aren’t pregnant and everything is running smooth in our reproductive system. It is vital for a woman to menstruate as it is a cleansing bodily function. But along with periods, come the menstrual cramps. These are the hardest to endure as they cause a lot of irritation and uneasy pains in the abdominal area. Some women don’t feel the pain at all while some can’t get out of their beds due to discomfort caused by the pain. Doctors generally advise against taking pain-relieving medicines during period unless and until the pain is too much to handle. Another remedy for menstrual cramps is intake or appliance of natural herbs.
Here Are 6 Herbal Remedies You Can Try To Ease Menstruation Cramps:
Red Raspberry Leaf
This well- known fertility herb helps reduce pain and obstructs PMS-ing. It runs high on nutrients and is a powerhouse of calcium and also serves as a uterine tonic. People generally consume it in a capsule form but it is less known to people that tea can be made from its leaves. This helps in regulating your menstrual cycle and minimizing your anxiety due to pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS).
Ginger
Ginger is the ultimate multi-tasking spice/ herb. It is the answer to almost all pain- relieving practices. The presence of Ginger’s own warming essential oil helps in proper circulation of blood that in turn relieves the tired abdominal muscles. It is also used for an upset stomach or nausea as menstruation is often associated with these. Ginger in the form of tea should be taken 2- 3 times a day before or during the start of menses.
Basil
Basil leaves are a great way to abate menstrual cramps. Just chewing a handful will have an immediate effect on the pain. It interferes with the pain-increasing compounds and prevents prostaglandins (hormones) from activating cramps. Basil leaves show an immediate effect because of the mucus membranes of the mouth that absorb the elements of the leaves into the blood. Basil leaves can be chewed or can be mixed in your food in more-than-general quantities. Basil Tea can also be drunk once a day.
Cinnamon
In Indian households, moms use cinnamon in almost everything they cook. So, it can be easily found in one of our kitchen cabinets. It has anti-microbial and anti-coagulating properties that make it suitable for taking during menstruation. It also comprises of iron, calcium and manganese. Make some tea using cinnamon leaves or sticks. Boil these cinnamon components in water for 15 minutes and add either milk or honey or both to water. Strain the solids and drink up!
Chamomile
It’s a soothing herb that relaxes the walls of the uterus and acts as a gentle but effective sedative. People prone to allergies from any kind of flowers, should consult their family doctor first. A warm chamomile tea can really work wonders for you in that time of the month. This tea can be made from dried up chamomile flowers. Boil a cup of water and add the flowers. Let it brew for 10 minutes. Drink and then thank this trick later!
Turmeric
Turmeric is beneficial to ladies who undergo heavy bleeding during periods. Heavy bleeding causes more uneasiness and painful cramps. Turmeric breaks up blood clots and slows down the excessive flow during menstruation. Physicians suggest taking non-steroidal medications during this situation. Turmeric acts in the same way that those medications do but without any side effects. In one cup of boiling milk, add half a spoon of turmeric powder and a spoonful of honey. Blend well. Drink twice a day.