Cramp-a-thon Conquerors: Botanical Edition
Juliette van der MeerOh, the joys of being a woman! While we may embrace our femininity, there's no denying the monthly visitor that comes knocking - bringing menstrual cramps or heavy bleeding. More than half of women who menstruate have some pain for 1 to 2 days each month ranging from mild to debilitating, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.*
Let's delve into the world of natural remedies to make "that time of the month" a tad more bearable.
Herbs and Oils For Menstrual Cramps
Lavender Love
Known for its calming properties, lavender essential oil is a trusty go-to during those crampy days. Just a few drops massaged onto your abdomen can work wonders in easing the discomfort. Plus, its soothing scent can help you relax and improve sleep quality.
Whether you make an herbal tea, add it to your cooking or use in a massage oil, lavender is number one in your "that time of the month" arsenal.
Clary Sage Serenity
Clary Sage is valued for its ability to balance hormones as well as its analgesic properties. It is therefore frequently used to support women's health to reduce the intensity of menstrual pain, as well as calm mood swings and hot flashes.
Marjoram Magic
Marjoram is not only a popular Mediterranean culinary herb that aids digestion, but it is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties which can ease menstrual cramps. Marjoram essential oil has a warming and relaxing effect when added to a bath or massage oil.
Peppermint Power
Peppermint tea can perk you up and the good news is it tastes as good as it smells! Not only does it invigorate our senses, but it also relieves menstrual cramps. Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, a natural muscle relaxant that can alleviate the tension in your uterine muscles, providing much-needed relief.
Chamomile Comfort
Whether sipped as a tea or applied topically, chamomile can help soothe those achy cramps. Chamomile tea is often recommended to improve sleep quality and calm the nerves, but it's also packed with anti-inflammatory properties that can ease the intensity of menstrual pain. Similarly, chamomile essential oil can be blended into a massage oil to relieve the symptoms associated with PMS.
Ginger Goodness
Turn up the 'heat' - its analgesic properties can relieve pain - with ginger! This spicy root has been used for centuries to combat various ailments, including menstrual cramps. Ginger essential oil works as a natural pain reliever and muscle relaxant, making it a go-to remedy. Sip on some ginger tea or incorporate it into your meals to reap its full benefits.
Rosemary Respite
Rosemary isn't just for seasoning your favourite dishes - Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain, while its uplifting scent can lift your spirits on those dreary days. Rosemary oil is widely used oil for chronic pain management and it works wonders to soothe frazzled nerves.
Yarrow Ease
Yarrow contains the compound "achilleine" that reduces the time for blood clotting, giving it hemostatic properties for stopping the bleeding of open wounds. Legend has it that Achilles used yarrow to heal his warriors' wounds, staunching their bleeding sufficiently so he could send them back to battle!
Yarrow's anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate the pain and discomfort often associated with heavy periods. It can be drunk as a tea, although it is bitter-tasting. It is often mixed with cinnamon for heavy periods.
So, the next time Aunt Flo comes knocking, arm yourself with these natural remedies to make life just a little bit easier, naturally!
Special Mention: Wild Yam Cream!
The Wild Yam Cream has been getting rave reviews for reducing pain during menstrual cycles, and even reducing cycle length in some women. It's easily absorbed and designed for consistent use for support during PMS phases, perimenopause and general hormonal comfort.
