In many women, menstruation is often accompanied by cramps. In some of them, these cramps are of low intensity and therefore bearable, but in several others they can be completely unbearable. These cramps are caused due to uterine contractions resulting from prostaglandins that are released to help in shedding off of the inner lining of uterus, known as endometrium.
If you are a woman, then most probably you have already experienced these menstrual cramps and you known how problematic they can be. These cramps can hamper your normal life and so you need to get relief from them. The best way to get relief from these cramps is by using home remedies. The reason is simple; these home remedies are not only effective but also without any side effects.
Home Remedies For Treating Menstrual Cramps
1. Consume Peppermint
Peppermint is very effective agent for providing relief from menstrual cramps. You can rub peppermint oil on your pelvic area for relief or add it to your food and beverages. Drinking peppermint tea is also an effective way of getting peppermint oil inside your system, which would in turn, provide relief from cramps. Drinking two cups of peppermint tea during the day is usually enough. You can also consume peppermint candies during the day for the same purpose.
2. Parsley
Parsley is a gift for women as it can act as menstrual cycle regulator. The volatile oils present in parsley contain some uterine stimulants, which help in controlling the menstrual cycle in women. It can not only be used to start the stopped periods, but also to slow down heavy bleeding during the periods. Its properties are not only limited to this, as it can also provide relief from menstrual cramps, by easing the shedding of endometrium.
3. Take Hot Water Bath
Fill your bath tub with hot water and add one cup each of baking soda and sea salt to it. Mix well and soak yourself in this tub for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This would reduce the stiffness of your muscles and relieve the pain caused during menstruation.
4. Drinks Lots Of Warm Beverages
Warm beverages like herbal teas and hot lemonade can be of great help in menstrual cramps. You should also prefer drinking warm water during this time. Warm liquids increase the blood flow and relax the muscles in your pelvic region, which gives relief from pain.
5. Use Hot Water Bottle
Hot water bottle can be used to get relief from menstrual cramps. Heat water and pour it into a bottle. Roll this bottle on your stomach and abdomen region for some time. This will provide relief from the pain.
6. Drink Lots Of Water During Periods
You need to completely avoid dehydration during periods as it can worsen the cramps. Always keep water within reach for the purpose of replenishing your fluids, whenever thirsty.
7. Chamomile Tea
The chamomile tea is widely used to get relief from menstrual cramps. For preparing this tea, take one cup of water and bring it to boil. As the water is boiling, add two teaspoons of chamomile leaves (dried) to it. Let it simmer for five more minutes and then strain the water. Add sugar or honey to sweeten this tea. You should start drinking this tea, at least two days before your periods due date and continue it during the periods. You will observe reduction in the intensity of pain.
8. Use Warm Kitchen Towel
Soak your kitchen towel in water and drain the excess liquid. Heat this towel in microwave for about one minute and then keep it on your abdomen. The heat in the towel can provide relief from pain, but you have to take precautions and make sure that the towel is not too hot otherwise you might end up burning your skin.
9. Drink Ginger Tea
Ginger oils comprised of oleoresin and terpenes have very strong antiseptic and lymph cleansing properties. This makes ginger one of the best home remedy for menstrual cramps. Ginger tea is known to be very effective in easing the pain caused during the periods. For preparing this tea, take a piece of ginger and boil it into a cup of water for about two minutes. Add sugar to this and drink twice or thrice daily during periods.
10. Add Basil To Your Food
Basil contains caffeic acid, a natural pain killer, which provides immediate relief from cramps. You can add basil leaves to your morning and evening tea or add it to your food at the time of cooking. For maximum relief, prepare basil tea by adding basil leaves to a cup of boiling water. Remove from heat, cover it with a lid and let it cool down. Drink this tea every half an hour during intense pain. You will get much relief from the cramps.
Also Read
Natural Home Remedies for Menstrual Problems
Home Remedies For Period Cramps
Herbal Remedies For Heavy Periods
11. Consume Cinnamon In
Cinnamon has anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help during menstrual cramps. You can add cinnamon to your tea or sprinkle it on your food for consumption purposes.
12. Avoid Caffeine, Excessive Sugar and Salt
Caffeine can cause irritation in your intestines further worsening the cramps. So, avoid coffee, tea, chocolate, and cold drinks, which contain good amount of caffeine. You should also reduce your intake of salts as well as sugar, as both of them can increase the intensity of pain. You should also avoid eating lots of spices during your periods. Dairy products are also said to have bad effect on menstruation cramps.
13. Other Home Remedies
Ripe banana is known to be quite effective in controlling menstruation cramps. You can take one banana when the pain increases for immediate relief. Drinking lemon juice daily is also known to provide relief from menstrual cramps. Fennel seeds can also be effective for pain. You should crush these fennel seeds and add it to one cup of boiling water. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, remove from heat and strain it. Drink this water twice daily for visible relief.
It is also said that having intercourse during periods also clears congestion and provides relief from pain. But, it can also lead to infections, so it is very important that you take ample precautions and maintain hygiene.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.