Menstrual cramps are a common, unpleasant symptom of the menstrual cycle that can be particularly painful and debilitating for many women.
Good news! Natural remedies can help relieve pain and discomfort during your period. With these methods, you’ll find relief and get back on track with life.
Drinking Herbal Tea
A cup of tea can do more than just relax your stomach; it also helps alleviate the pain and irritability caused by cramps. There are some herbal teas specifically tailored for menstruation such as chamomile, ginger or hibiscus – they will all provide comfort during this time.
Chamomile tea’s calming properties may help ease anxiety, which can make menstrual cramps more painful. Furthermore, it contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds which reduce inflammation – another major source of cramps and discomfort.
Cinnamon is a widely-used herbal tea to relieve cramps. According to research published in the Journal of Women’s Health, cinnamon can ease uterine contractions and reduce pain experienced during labor.
Hibiscus tea can be an effective remedy for period cramps, particularly if you experience heavy bleeding. This herbal beverage contains antioxidants and diuretic properties which help regulate water and salt levels in the body. For maximum benefit from this remedy, drink it seven days prior to starting your period to reap its full benefits.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are an all-natural remedy to help relieve cramping pain and discomfort. They can be applied directly onto skin, inhaled, or added into a bath for extra relaxation.
When selecting an essential oil, ensure it comes from a trusted brand and contains only pure plant compounds extracted through distillation or cold pressing. Avoid purchasing essential oils that have been mixed with chemicals or other ingredients as these can pose risks to your health.
Another great solution is using a blend of relaxing essential oils like lavender, rose and clary sage. These have been known for their capacity to reduce anxiety and soothe mood swings, making them ideal for relieving period pain.
To get the most out of essential oils, dilute them with a carrier oil at a concentration of 2 to 3 percent before applying topically.
Warm Bath
Though taking a warm bath may seem counterintuitive, research has demonstrated that it can actually benefit your overall health. According to WebMD, the warm water encourages blood flow throughout the body, relieving muscle pain and improving circulation.
Additionally, exercise has a calming effect on the body, decreasing stress levels and releasing endorphins associated with happiness and relaxation. Soaking in a hot tub or sauna may even help alleviate migraines or other intense pain.
Another way to relieve cramps is by placing a heating pad against your abdomen. This works especially well if you’re prone to menstrual cramps, as it relaxes both the uterine muscles and those surrounding it, according to WebMD.
For additional comfort, add Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) to your bath water. This mineral helps heal bruises and swelling by increasing blood flow to the affected area.
Massage
Massage is an all-inclusive term for pressing, rubbing and manipulating your skin, muscles, tendons and ligaments. It can range from light stroking to intense pressure.
With the rise of alternative treatments for medical conditions and ailments, integrative medicine is becoming a more widely offered component to standard treatments. Not only can it reduce stress, improve moods, but it can also benefit your physical wellbeing as well.
Some women find massage to be especially helpful during menstruation, as its relaxing effect on the uterus helps regulate bleeding quantity and pattern.
Massage has both pain relieving effects and also stimulates oxytocin, an endorphin hormone associated with feelings of love, comfort and relaxation. Furthermore, massage has been known to accelerate opioid release from the brain which helps reduce pain and prevent muscle spasms.
It’s essential to remember that massage should never replace standard medical care, so consult your doctor if you have any queries or worries before trying this modality.