Many women find that the monthly pain associated with their menstrual cycle can seriously interfere with their lives. For some, pain is severe enough to prevent them from going to work or school. Conventional pain medications are often effective, but unfortunately many have side effects and can even be detrimental to the health. Give these natural remedies a try and see what works best for you.
Red Raspberry Leaf
Most commonly taken in the form of an herbal tea, red raspberry leaf is also available in capsule form. This herb is considered to be a uterine tonic, which means that it strengthens the muscles of the uterus. Many women find that drinking one cup of this tea a day throughout their entire cycle results in reduced pain during menstruation. Just make sure you buy red raspberry leaf tea, as regular raspberry herbal tea does not have this benefit.
Apply Heat
Heat can be a powerful tool in alleviating menstrual cramps. Try lying down and applying a heating pad or hot water bottle directly to the lower abdomen or back. Similarly, relief can be attained by soaking in a hot bath or warming a blanket in the dryer. For times when you’re out and about, there are even disposable heating pads designed specifically for this purpose. They can be discreetly tucked inside clothing to provide a few hours of soothing warmth as you go about your daily activities.
Exercise
Although exercising may be the last thing you feel like doing once menstrual cramps have started, you may find that it offers a great deal of pain relief. Physical exertion causes the body to release endorphins which have strong painkilling abilities. Likewise, gentle stretches and yoga can help to relax the body and sooth cramps. Pelvic tilts may be particularly helpful. Just be sure to avoid really strenuous exercise routines during the first couple days of your period, as it is important not to overtax the body during this time.
Calcium
Making sure that you get enough calcium in your diet can help reduce all types of muscle cramping, including menstrual cramps. Incorporate healthy sources of this mineral such as yogurt, sesame seeds, and leafy green vegetables into your diet. Also, keep in mind that maintaining adequate levels of magnesium and vitamin d is also necessary for proper calcium absorption.
Cinnamon and Ginger
Your spice rack may also have the secret to alleviating menstrual pain. Both ground cinnamon and ginger are known for their abilities to fight inflammation and menstrual pain. Ginger has the added benefit of reducing nausea, a problem many women face during their menstrual periods.
Don’t get frustrated if one of these remedies doesn’t work for you right away. It can take a bit of experimenting to find just the right course of action to take for pain management during your menstrual period. Try employing these tips one at a time so that you can evaluate what works best for your individual body.