Read on the top natural remedies for menstrual cramps. Check out the article we found over at Top 10 Home Remedies.
Menstruation is a natural part of a woman’s life, but painful menstrual cramps are a very annoying problem for many. While menstrual cramps are rarely a cause for concern, if severe they can disrupt regular activities.
Menstrual cramps are due to a hormone-like substance called prostaglandin that causes the uterine muscles to contract during menstruation.
Cramping can cause a dull or throbbing pain in the lower abdomen, and radiate pain to the lower back and thighs. Cramps generally subside after the first two to three days of the period. Some women feel cramps just before the onset of their cycle, too.
Some factors can increase the chances of suffering from menstrual cramps, such as reaching puberty at an early age, genetics, heavy bleeding during periods and unhealthy habits like smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, consuming excess alcohol and taking illegal drugs.
For some women, menstrual cramps may reduce or completely disappear after childbirth.
To ease the pain and discomfort, there are several over-the-counter medicines. However, some simple and natural home remedies can be equally effective and relieve symptoms faster, or even prevent cramps.
Here are the top 10 home remedies for menstrual cramps.
1. Heat
Applying heat on the lower abdomen is the easiest way to control menstrual cramps. Heat helps relax the contracting muscles in the uterus.
- Place a heating pad over the lower part of your abdomen and lower back. You can even use a regular plastic bottle filled with hot water. Apply the heat until you feel more comfortable.
- Alternatively, soak a towel in water, wring out the excess water and then heat it in the microwave for one minute. Place it on the lower abdomen until the towel cools. Repeat every few minutes until the pain is gone.
- Even taking a hot shower may relieve pain and make you feel more relaxed.
2. Ginger
Ginger is a wonder herb that can effectively ease menstrual cramps. 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.
- Grate 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. Basil
Basil is another very effective herb for reducing menstrual pain and cramps. The caffeic acid present in basil has analgesic, or pain-killing properties.
- Add one tablespoon of basil leaves to one cup of boiling water. Cover tightly and allow it to cool. Drink this every few hours to ease cramps.
- Alternatively, crush a handful of basil leaves to extract the juice. Add two teaspoons of the juice to one cup of warm water. Drink this three times daily while having pain.
- You can also add fresh basil leaves to your food.
4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon has antispasmodic, anticlotting and anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve menstrual pain. Plus, cinnamon is an excellent source of dietary fiber, calcium, iron and manganese.
- Make cinnamon tea by stirring one-fourth teaspoon of cinnamon powder into a cup of hot water. Let it sit for up to five minutes, add a little honey and then sip it slowly. Drink two to three cups of cinnamon tea one to two days before your period starts to prevent cramps.
- Add one-half teaspoon of cinnamon powder and one tablespoon of honey to a glass of warm water. Drink it three times during the first day of your period to relieve pain.
Read full article: Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps
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