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Period cramps are a common and irritating problem that almost all women face throughout their reproductive years. Whilst some women experience period pain that is mild and can be easily endured, there are some others for whom period pain is a nightmare and require painkillers to be under control.
Instead of going after over the counter medications that treat period pain, several home remedies can be employed to treat the problem without causing any side effects to the body. They are also cost effective and do not incur any extra expenditure as well.
Home Remedies For Period Cramps
Heat Application
All forms of radiating pain reacts well to heat application. The most favoured treatment for period cramps by women is also application of heat. A cotton towel can be soaked in hot water, wringed dry and applied on the lower abdomen, where the pain is concentrated.
It is best if someone else can do this for you, which will help you relax and stay calm during the heat treatment. The heat and the moist steam that enters the skin soothe the stomach and the reproductive organs and immediately do away with the period cramps. Repeat as much time as needed.
Pillow
Using a pillow under your belly is known to ease the period cramps greatly. For this, lie on the floor with a pillow under your belly and one under your head. Leave your buttocks raised up and your back closer to the floor so that the weight on the uterus can be eased. This is a sure way to relieve the pain and you will fall asleep like a baby in this pose.
Parsley Tea
A juice made from parsley can be taken not just for controlling period cramps, but also for regulating the periods. 75 ml of the juice can be taken twice daily to keep the pain under control. A tea can be prepared by adding a handful of fresh parsley leaves to eight ounces of water. Boil the water and remove from the stove. Steep for ten minutes and take twice daily.
Coriander Seeds
The seeds of coriander are known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help in controlling period cramps. Intake of coriander seeds are also good for regulating one’s period. Take a handful of coriander seeds and boil it along with one cup of water. Simmer in a low flame until the water turns very little. This water can be taken two to three times a day after straining.
Asafoetida
Mix half a teaspoon of asafoetida with some honey or butter and take this 3-4 times during your heavy menstrual periods. This can relieve severe period cramps Asafoitida can also be cooked in oil and taken to get the same results.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds when taken during menstruation help in regulating the flow of blood and also in treating period cramps. Soak some sesame seeds in water overnight.
These seeds can be eaten three days before the period starts, for reducing the chances of period cramps from surfacing. A handful of sesame seeds can be chewed and eaten during your periods and at the time of period cramps, in order to reduce its severity.
Sitz Bath
A sitz bath too is a very effective method of treating menstrual cramps. Take hot water that is tolerable and use it in the sitz bath. Spend at least fifteen minutes each session in the sitz bath to relieve the period cramps naturally. A hot sitz bath gives warmth to the area and increases blood circulation, thereby preventing the action of the chemicals that cause period cramps.
Cold Pack
Though most women would prefer a hot pack than a cold pack, there are some women who find it much more effective in using a cold pack for controlling period pain.
A cold pack helps in the constriction of blood vessels and this will help in reducing period pain. Take some ice cubes and place it in a cold pack or a sealed plastic pack. Cover with a cotton towel over it and apply on the abdominal region for ten to fifteen minutes.
Papayas
Raw papayas constrict the muscles in the uterus and this helps in regulating blood flow and reducing instances of period pain. Taking papayas are also known to regulate menstrual flow in women who have had their periods stopped due to extreme stress and fright.
Banana Flower
The flower of the banana can be cooked and eaten for treating period cramps. Banana flowers when cooked and taken along with one cup of fresh curd can help reduce excessive bleeding as the body gets more progesterone supplement and bleeding and pain will be reduced as well.
Ginger
A natural analgesic, ginger also cures period cramps. Take ten grams of ginger and grate it. Add to one cup of boiling water and simmer for fifteen minutes. Take ginger tea 3-4 times a day for relieving the period cramps and also for reducing the bleeding. Include ginger in plenty in your diet as well for best results using this home remedy.
Holy Basil
Holy basil contains a pain-relieving compound known as caffeic acid which can act on period cramps and offer relief for the person. Take a handful of basil leaves and add to two cups of water. Boil and then simmer for ten minutes. This water can be drunk every hour to reduce period cramps.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has antispasmodic and anti inflammatory properties and these qualities of cinnamon can help when you have period cramps. Take half a teaspoon of cinnamon and consume it with your regular tea or with warm water or cereals. This must be done a day before your period starts and must be continued until the 3rd or 4th day of your period.
Mineral Bath
A mineral bath with one cup baking soda and one cup sea salt added to a tub of hot or warm water can relieve period cramps. Soak for half an hour to aid in muscles relaxation. Do it every day until the bleeding is under control and you no longer feel cramped.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.