Many women suffer from very intense menstrual pain every month. It is therefore important to have good follow-up with a professional (treating doctor, gynecologist or midwife). This allows us to rule out suspicions of possible health problems (endometriosis, uterine polyp, etc.). At the same time, everything is good for relief: acupuncture, yoga postures, medications, contraceptive pills, hot cabbage poultice, etc. However, we rarely think about plants which can very effectively soothe painful periods. Whether they are antispasmodic or anti-inflammatory, they are essential. Here are seven natural remedies that herbal medicine offers for dysmenorrhea.
1) Ginger to prevent pain
This plant works wonders against many inflammatory diseases. Regarding periods, it reduces the levels of prostaglandin which causes pain. In 2012, a study showed that taking it before the start of your period and the first days when it begins significantly reduced pain. It also knows how to regularize irregular periods and fight against fatigue associated with premenstrual syndrome. To do this, you can of course add ginger to your dishes or as an infusion. However, for a more concentrated consumption, you can opt for the mother tincture or the standardized extract (250 mg to 1 g, 3 times a day).
2) Two plants that knock out premenstrual syndrome and pain
We talk a lot about pain during periods. On the other hand, we do not always mention the equally painful inconveniences which may precede them : painful breasts, spasms… Before your period, you can rely on dried chasteberry berries. This “monk pepper” is available as an infusion, in the form of a liquid extract or in capsules. In these last two forms, the concentration of agnuside and casticin (the most active ingredients) is higher. If your PMS is causing you pain or during painful periodsblack cohosh is one of the most effective plants. Also called cimicifuga, it is also useful against irregular periods (and menopause).
3) German chamomile
A hot compress, like a good hot water bottle, will help relax the muscles that contract during your period. This relaxation will help soothe the pain more effectively. If we soak a clean cloth with hot (not hot) chamomile infusion to apply to the lower abdomen, this will have an effect even more decongestant, soothing, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. In fact, it is one of the most useful plants in everyday life and is therefore also essential in cases of painful periods. To take advantage of its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties and alleviate painful cramps, drink at least 2 cups of infusion every day during the week before your period.
4) Lady’s mantle, known as “women’s herb”
It is THE plant that helps resolve all period problems. Progestin, it also allows reduce heavy periods what of calm painful periodss. Indeed, progesterone is produced during the second part of the cycle. If the level is too low, you may have painful breasts, feel a certain irritability and have more profuse bleeding. Since this plant stimulates this female hormone, it restores hormonal balance. Its tannin composition, like tea, also allows it to reduce uterine hemorrhage. As an infusion, allow 40 g in 1 l of hot water to infuse for 10 minutes before filtering. Drink 3 large cups of it per day between meals. There are also fresh plant extracts or the mother tincture. For the latter, allow 50 drops morning and evening during the second part of the cycle (12 to 14 days before your period).
5) Yarrow
If lady’s mantle is one of the best plants for painful periods, it is thanks to its antispasmodic properties on the smooth muscles of the uterus. Very anti-inflammatory and relaxing, it also has a sedative action on the ovaries and uterus which will relieve and soothe your pain. Its flavonoids also likely block a step in the estrogen manufacturing chain. However, this partly limits the hormonal “roller coaster” that causes pain. To use it, throw 30g of flowering tops into 1l of boiling water. Strain after 10 minutes of infusion and drink up to 3 cups per day. You can also add 1l of infusion to the bath water or make a sitz bath. Otherwise, it is found in the form of a mother tincture. Dilute 50 drops in a glass of water and drink this mixture 4 to 6 times a day during the painful period.
5) Lemon balm to feel better in your head and body
If we had to describe it in just one word, we would say that it is soothing ! Since ancient Greece, it has been appreciated for stomach aches of all kinds. As for the rules, she relieves smooth muscle spasms of the lower abdomen. However, it also has a positive effect on the nervous system and therefore against nervousness and anxiety. Stimulating antidepressant and anxiolytic, it is therefore one of the best plants against painful periods associated with a background of anxiety. On the other hand, it is not recommended in cases of hypothyroidism. Over a maximum week, you can drink it as a herbal tea (2 to 3 times a day). In decoction, it can be added to bath water.
6) Common mugwort
She takes her name from the goddess of nature and hunting, thanks to her many virtues that benefit women. Already in his time, Hippocrates advised her to deal with all the disorders of the female cycle. Even today, we use it in case of absence of periods or menstrual pain. In fact, it is both antibacterial, antifungal, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic. It is also excellent for the nerves and digestion. However, some rules must be observed. Already, its herbal tea can only be used for 6 days maximum. The ideal would be to start 2 to 3 days before your period and then continue during the first days (generally the most painful). In addition, it is prohibited for pregnant women and contraindicated in cases of uterine inflammation or recent infection of the small pelvis.
7) Glycerinated macerate of young raspberry shoots or blackcurrant buds
The raspberry tree allows you to regulate hormonal balance. Additionally, it can relax the uterine muscle and ease contractions. You can find it in pharmacies. Take 50 to 100 drops diluted in a glass of water, as a treatment for several months. You can also try the mother tincture or the glycerinated macerate of blackcurrant buds. The blackcurrant bud is anti-inflammatory. It will therefore help relieve pain during periods. Count 30 to 50 drops in a glass of water, 3 times a day before meals. Be careful, this remedy has a stimulating and energizing effect that is too powerful for some people.
Other notable plants against painful periods:
– Fennel
– The Chinese angelica
– Turmeric
– L’aneth
– Milk thistle
– Concern for gardens
– Tarragon essential oil diluted in a vegetable oil to massage the stomach on the painful area and calm cramps.
In addition to plants, here are other easy and natural tips to relieve painful periods
In addition to plants, there are several other natural methods to relieve painful periods and get through your period better. Applying a hot water bottle or hot compress to the lower abdomen is a well-known technique for relaxing muscles and relieving pain. Here are some other additional methods!
A massage with plant oils against painful periods
Gently massaging the lower abdomen with circular movements relieves menstrual cramps by stimulating blood circulation and relaxing muscles. If you want to stick with plants, some essential oils like lavender, peppermint, and chamomile have relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties which can effectively soothe painful periods. To relieve menstrual pain, you can dilute them in a vegetable oil of your choice. use this as a massage oil for a successful abdominal massage. It is also possible to use them in a hot bath, diluted in salt or milk.
Adapt your diet to suffer less
Additionally, adopt a balanced and varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and omega-3s can help reduce inflammation and ease menstrual pain. Also remember to drink plenty of water. Maintaining good hydration will reduce bloating and relieve menstrual cramps.. If necessary, certain food supplements such as magnesium, vitamin B6, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce menstrual cramps. Simply consult a healthcare professional before beginning any supplementation. Finally, certain irritating foods should be limited as much as possible.
Sport and relaxation for a life without period pain
Do light exercise like walking or yoga can also help reduce cramps by stimulating blood circulation and relaxing muscles. Furthermore, stress can make menstrual pain worse. There practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing or massage can help reduce tension and relieve pain. If that’s not enough, some women find relief from menstrual pain with acupuncture. This practice of traditional Chinese medicine, which consists of stimulating certain points of the body with fine needles, effectively relaxes the body and fights pain.
In all cases, painful periods should prompt you to consult a healthcare professional, especially if they are very disabling. Doctor, gynecologist, midwife: several specialists can advise you on how to soothe pain and find suitable contraception to reduce your suffering in case of dysmenorrhea.