Doctors don’t know why some women get them but others do not. Period cramps. Sharp pains in the abdominal and/or pelvic regions of a woman’s body There is some speculation, of course, as to their cause (which we will go into later), but whatever the cause, relief is what most are looking for… not answers. In this article we’ll discuss home remedies for those unbearable period cramps.
Why those unbearable cramps happen
As we mentioned, Doctors aren’t sure why some women get menstrual cramps and others do not. The speculation on the subject is out there, however, and we’ve done our homework. While cause is not identified, here are some (but not all of) the factors that are often present with the more intense cramping pain episodes:
- Age (often under 20)
- A heavy blood flow during the period
- Abnormal growths in the womb
- After having the first child
- Endometriosis
Some or all of these factors are generally present. So what can be done?
Natural Cramp Relief – Non-Medicinal
In this world of chemical solutions it’s easy to just reach for that medication (that is giving you acne, rotting your liver, or who knows what else?) instead of simply trying some more natural methods. Sometimes the medication is called for but it is always good to exhaust the other measures first. Here are some ways that you can help to find some natural cramp relief whether it’s severe pain on the first day or the type that is constant and lingering:
- Heat – Heat can help to relax those tightened muscles. A hot water bottle on the abdomen or even better, a hot bath, can help to get your body relaxed and have you feeling normal again in no time.
- Yoga – While a little exercise is probably the furthest from your mind right now, a little Yoga or even just general stretching can get those muscles the message that you are in control and that they need to start doing their job properly. Think of it as a gentle reminder or giving them something to do besides tensing when it’s not necessary.
- An Orgasm – We saw you make a face at that. Give us a moment to explain, however. The endorphins produced from an orgasm followed by the relaxation of the body can accomplish quite naturally what pills and prodding often cannot. Give this solution a try some time before you immediately discount it, you may be pleasantly surprised!
Natural Cramp Relief – Medicinal
Sometimes some of the normal home methods don’t help, so there are alternatives that you can use to help to get yourself some relief. We’ll skip the ‘over the counter’ medication and give you some more natural remedies for menstrual cramps that you may not have heard of or considered:
- Acupuncture – Western medicine is not the only medicine, you know. Also, not all medical treatment comes in the form of a pill. Before you ask, no, it doesn’t hurt, not like you think. Acupuncturists know various points in the body that relate to different types of pain. This practice has been done for over 1000 years, you know, so maybe they are on to something? Consider giving acupuncture a try.
- White Flower Oil – An old Asian standard, if you have never tried White Flower Oil, get a hold of some online or at your local Asian market. Massaged into the abdomen (or anywhere, really) White Flower Oil provides a release from pain that you won’t believe until you try it. Get some now for later, you’ll be happy that you did!
- Dill – One study indicated that Dill was as effective as many over the counter medications. Try taking 1000mg of Dill 2-3 days before your period as an herbal alternative to those pills. Just get an extra bottle of dill so that your cooking doesn’t suffer after you’ve gotten better!
- Fennel seeds – 30mg of Fennel taken 2-3 times a day during your cycle can provide relief naturally.
” Studies found ginger to be as effective as Ibuprofen…”
- Ginger – Take some slices of ginger and boil them with a spoonful of honey to make yourself some ginger root tea. Drink it 3-4 times a day for 3 days. Studies found ginger to be as effective as Ibuprofen and it is also quite tasty and natural.
- Chamomile Tea – You’ve probably got it at home, take advantage of it! Chamomile can increase the body’s levels of glycine, a natural reliever of muscle spasms and relaxes your nerves in the bargain. Drink 2 cups a day, every day, or simply one week before your period, it’s an excellent for natural cramp relief.
If you are still experiencing cramping
If natural menstrual cramp relief is failing you and even over the counter remedies are not working, we suggest that you consult your physician in order to determine the underlying cause. While natural methods are always preferred, acute pain that does not ebb is likely a sign of something more significant and you should check with the Doctor just to be on the safe side.
Some final words
We hope that you have enjoyed this collection of natural home remedies for menstrual cramping. While the list is hardly exhaustive, we trust that there is a thing or two here that you may not have tried and we hope that it gives you the relief that you desire. Menstrual aches are a curse to those who suffer them and misunderstood (even joked about) by those who do not have them, and yet they are serious and challenge your ability to function at work or at leisure. Hang in there and try one or all of these methods until you find the right one for you (the White Flower Oil is highly recommended, it really is a godsend!). Remember, medication often comes with side effects and imbalances the body, always keep it natural when you can! Until next time, we wish you the best!
