How to Use Herbs for Relief of Menstrual Cramps

Australian based researchers recently found that Chinese herbs may alleviate the pain of menstrual cramps better than conventional medications. Surprisingly enough, over half of the women who took herbs for menstrual cramps reported less menstrual pain. When compared with traditional medications for menstrual cramps such as anti-inflammatory medications, Chinese herbs performed better in studies of pain relief. Which herbs were most effective? Here's a list of herbs for menstrual cramps used in this particular study.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Red Peony Root, White Peony Root.
   
   Peony has been cultivated as an ornamental plant and also used as a Chinese medicine for centuries to treat spasm, muscle cramps, irregular menstruation, and menstrual cramps. Although its use is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation, it's not known to have serious side effects or potential for toxicity.

2. Cinnamon Bark.
   
   Cinnamon bark, cultivated in tropical regions of India, the Phillipines, and Sri Lanka, has been traditionally used as a digestive aid and to help regulate insulin and blood sugar levels. It's been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine for treatment of menstrual problems, including menstrual pain. Side effects include mild stomach upset and diarrhea.

3. Chinese Angelica Root.
   
   This popular herb, alternatively known as Don Quai, has been used to treat a variety of menstrual conditions including irregular periods and menstrual cramps. It's known to have pain reduction properties including inhibition of inflammation and relaxation of the uterine muscles. This particular Chinese herb is frequently used in combination with other herbs to treat various conditions including menopausal symptoms. It's one of the best characterized herbs for menstrual cramps.

4. Szechuan Lovage Root.
   
   This Chinese herb grows wild in the Mediterranean region of Europe. Its dried root has been used medicinally for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Not only does it have pain relieving properties, it also has a variety of antibacterial effects. In high doses, it can cause excessive menstrual bleeding and gastrointestinal symptoms.

5. Chinese Motherwort.
   
   This herb for menstrual cramps, traditionally seen as a garden plant, has a long historical record of being used to regulate the menstrual cycle. This member of the mint family of plant has leaves and flowers that have been used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat a variety of medical conditions including heart rhythm abnormalities and anxiety. When taken in high quantities, this herb can cause diarrhea, uterine contractions, and miscarriage.

Tips & Warnings

• Although the results of this study are encouraging, the use of these herbs for menstrual cramps need further study and scrutiny before they can be widely recommended for general use. If the results of these studies hold up, these herbs may be a safe and effective remedy for menstrual cramps.
• Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking herbs. Some herbs can interact with prescription medications.