Having menstrual cramps is one of the most common, annoying part of your period. They can strike right before or during that time of the month. Here's how you can reduce the pain.
Menstrual cramps happen because of contractions in the uterus, or womb, which is a muscle.
Here are a few natural remedies to relieve the excruciating pain:
1. Heating
Applying heat to the lower abdomen and lower back is the easiest way to control menstrual cramps. Heat helps relax the contracting muscles in the uterus. You can do this by either applying a heating pad or just putting a hot water bottle to treat the pain. According to specialists this works just as well as medicines. Even a hot shower can help release the pain.
2. Ginger
This works extremely well to cure menstrual pain, this herb plays a key role in lowering the levels of the pain-causing prostaglandins. It also helps fight fatigue associated with premenstrual syndrome and can make irregular periods regular. You can consume it by grating a small piece of ginger and boil it in a cup of water for five minutes. Strain it and add a little honey and lemon juice. Drink this tea three times a day during your menstrual cycle. You can also add ginger in your food while cooking or suck on some ginger candies.
3. Cinnamon
It has various health benefits due to its anti bacterial, anti clotting properties and also is anti inflammatory in nature that can relieve menstrual pain. You can either consume it with tea or by mixing honey with cinnamon in warm water approximately thrice a day.
4. Chamomile Tea
This has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help relax the uterus and ease the spasmodic contractions that cause pain during menstruation. To consume add a chamomile teabag in warm water, add honey and have 2-3 times a day.
5. Basil
This is another very effective herb for reducing menstrual pain and cramps. The caffeic acid present in basil has analgesic, or pain-killing properties which help to curb the pain. The easiest way to consume basil is with tea.
6. Flax seeds
It is great for reducing the intensity of menstrual cramps. The essential fatty acids in flax seeds help stabilize the production of progesterone. Plus, flax seeds can improve uterine function and help treat fertility problems. When suffering from menstrual cramps, consume one to two tablespoons of flax seeds daily. You can sprinkle ground flax seed over a salad, cereal and yogurt or put it in a smoothie.
7. Parsley
It contains two compounds called apiol and myristicin which are very effective in getting relief from menstrual pain. Parsley also regulates irregular menstrual cycles. A juice made from parsley can be taken twice a day during periods to prevent excessive menstrual pain.
DoctorNDTV is the one stop site for all your health needs providing the most credible health information, health news and tips with expert advice on healthy living, diet plans, informative videos etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate info you need about health problems like diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, weight loss and many other lifestyle diseases. We have a panel of over 350 experts who help us develop content by giving their valuable inputs and bringing to us the latest in the world of healthcare.