Use Natural Remedies for Menstrual Cramps

The menstrual cycle can be a difficult moment for many women, especially if they’re experiencing cramps.

Before you take a look at remedies that can ease the pain, you need to learn more about the causes of menstrual cramps and the symptoms of an uncomfortable period. You can experience symptoms like dizziness, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, lower back pain or abdominal cramps.

The prostaglandins (fatty substances) have the role of a hormone, and that’s why they provoke contraction to your uterus, thus causing severe menstrual cramps. These cramps are common in young women and teenagers but also in women who are suffering from pelvic inflammatory disease or uterine fibroids.

Here is our list of remedies that you can you use at home.

• Acupressure and acupuncture 

Although more research is needed, a study from 2011 concluded that acupressure and acupuncture are efficient in treating menstrual cramps.

• Organic painkillers

Many women prefer to take Ibuprofen while they are on their period. This drug is effective because it has the ability to lower the levels of prostaglandins, thus making the pain go away. Specialists from Mayo Clinic say that ibuprofen has side effects such as provoking cramps and abdominal pains that are similar to those caused by menstruation.

You can opt for organic painkillers like turmeric or ginger.

• Topical heat  

If you’re experiencing menstrual cramps, you can put a warm compress or a heating pat on your abdomen. Also, it’s efficient if you take a bath or a shower. You can consume hot drinks like tea if you want to ease the pain.

• Use essential oils

There are some special essential oils that you can use to ease the pain provoked by period cramps. Specialists from the University of Maryland Medical Center affirm that lavender is an efficient remedy against pain, and it can help you relax. Next time you feel severe cramps, use lavender essential oil. Also, you can try chamomile, rosemary, clary sage, wintergreen essential oils.

• Mindfulness meditation

Many experts claim that this procedure relieves pain caused by menstrual cramps because people who practice mindfulness meditation don’t perceive pain as intense as it actually is.

• Exercising

When you do a workout, or run or go to the gym, your body produces endorphins, the hormone that makes us happy. Endorphins have analgesic properties, so that’s why it’s indicated to exercise while you are on your period.

• Healthy foods

Several studies have concluded that magnesium has an effective result in easing painful menstrual cramps. Try to eat more foods that contain magnesium such as dark chocolate, bananas, avocados, beans, spinach, kale, etc.

Also, foods packed with antioxidants (berries), calcium (hummus, cabbage, almond, white beans, etc.) or proteins (beans and meats) have a positive effect.

Moreover, researchers say that supplements of vitamin B1, fish oil or vitamin D can relieve pain. You can try evening primrose oil, cramp bark, chaste berry or black cohosh when you’re having painful period cramps. If you’re taking any kind of medication, consult your doctor before using any of these herbal supplements.