8 Herbal Teas for Menstrual Cramps
Herbal teas are a great natural remedy for menstrual cramps. We tend to get menstrual cramps in the week or two leading up to our period, during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. As we get closer to our period our body starts producing prostaglandins, which are actually inflammatory compounds that work to help the uterus contract to release the uterine lining (our period). Menstrual cramps are often a result of excess prostaglandins in the body. We can also see cramps with an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone, typically with elevated estrogen levels or low progesterone levels. Herbal teas can help to counteract the painful cramps we can experience before our period.
Here are 8 herbal teas for menstrual cramps:
1. Ginger tea for menstrual cramps
Ginger is a great herbal tea for menstrual cramps due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger can be an effective PMS relief tea for use as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever with the ability to reduce pain as much as a common NSAID such as ibuprofen. For an effective amount, drink about 4 cups a day [1, 2, 3]. Ginger reduces the production of prostaglandins, which in return reduce common symptoms associated with PMS such as cramps, mood swings, and headaches [4].
2. Lemon Balm tea for menstrual cramps
Lemon balm tea is another herbal tea for menstrual cramps that can help to reduce period pain. Studies suggest that lemon balm is a source of antioxidants that can help to lower oxidative stress and inflammation and may also have antispasmodic effects [5]. A study looking at the effects of lemon balm on period pain found that it decreases the severity of menstrual symptoms [6].
3. Fenugreek tea for menstrual cramps
Fenugreek is an herbal tea for menstrual cramps that can help reduce symptoms. Studies show that fenugreek may help painful periods (or dysmenorrhea) [7]. Fenugreek seed contains phytoestrogens, which help balance estrogen, making it an excellent herb to balance female hormones.
4. Fennel tea for menstrual cramps
Fennel can help to reduce period pain and cramping. A study that looked at the effects of fennel and pain intensity during menstruation found that fennel is an effective herb to help with period pain [8]. Study participants took a 30 mg capsule of fennel extract four times a day for three days of the start of their period. Those who took the fennel extract had a significant reduction in period pain symptoms compared to the control group. This makes fennel a great herbal tea for menstrual cramps.
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5. Peppermint tea for menstrual cramps
Peppermint is another great herbal tea for menstrual cramps due to its muscle relaxant effects. A study looking at the effect of peppermint on period pain found that it helped to reduce the severity of pain and improve menstrual-related symptoms [9]. The study concludes that peppermint is advised for treating dysmenorrhea (period pain) and has lower side effects compared to medicinal drugs. Incorporating peppermint tea is a great way to help prevent or ease menstrual cramps.
6. Cinnamon tea for menstrual cramps
Cinnamon can help to reduce period pain and cramping. A study looking at the effect of cinnamon on relieving period pain found that cinnamon can reduce the severity of symptoms [10]. Participants took 1000 mg of cinnamon during the first three days of their menstrual cycle for two consecutive cycles and symptoms were significantly reduced compared to the control group. This makes cinnamon a great herbal tea for menstrual cramps.
7. Dandelion Root tea for menstrual cramps
Dandelion root is another great herbal tea to help prevent menstrual cramps. Menstrual cramps can be worse if there are imbalances in estrogen and progesterone in the body. Dandelion root is high in plant estrogens and plays a role in the detoxification of the body, which plays a crucial role in detoxifying and clearing excess hormones in the body [11]. This herb may help to prevent constipation, which is an important step in clearing excess estrogen from the body to support overall hormone balance.
8. Cramp Bark Tea for Menstrual Cramps
Although there have been many uses for cramp bark, relieving period pain tends to be the most popular. There is a small amount of evidence that cramp bark may be useful for anti spasm effect on the uterus, helping it to relax and alleviate pain associated with PMS [12]. This makes cramp bark another great herbal tea for menstrual cramps.
Take away message:
Herbal teas are a great natural remedy for menstrual cramps. If you’re looking to understand the root causes of your acne, check out my hormone testing packages HERE.
