If you’re tired of suffering from painful menstrual cramps every month, you’re not alone. More than half of women report pain and needing medications during their cycle. Perhaps your doctor put you on birth control in hopes of reducing the pain. But if you’re looking for natural remedies that might help, here are a couple of suggestions.
5 Natural Remedies for Menstrual Cramps
#1. Getting better sleep: The sleep hormone, called melatonin, plays a big role in regulating menstrual cycles. Sufficient amounts of this hormone may help not only with ovulation and fertility, but it can also reduce the amount of pelvic pain from endometriosis.
#2. Eat Fiber-Rich and Plant-Based Foods:
As much as possible, avoid processed foods, salty foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks you that may increase bloating and water retention.
Instead look for foods rich in fiber and minerals like boron and calcium. Foods that contain boron include avocados, peanut butter, prunes, bananas, and garbanzo beans. Studies show that herbs like fennel seed, cinnamon, ginger, and dill were effective at minimizing cramps in participants.
#3. Apply Heat: Applying a heating pad to the lower back has proven to be just as effective at managing pain as ibuprofen. Heating pads are most effective at 104 degrees, so try finding one that can provide this degree of heat.
#4: Massage the area: Evidence has shown that women with endometriosis find relief immediately following massage therapy for menstrual cramps. This entails massaging areas of the abdomen, side and back. Using essential oils such as lavender and clary sage for the massage can further alleviate the pain.
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