When seeking natural remedies, herbs formenstrual crampsmay be worth considering.
The cramps are thought to be triggered by the build-up of hormones calledprostaglandinsduring the early part of themenstrual cycle.
While useful, these treatments work better for some people than for others.
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Ginger
Some people believe that ginger can ease menstrual cramps by reducinginflammationand the production of pain-causing prostaglandins.
Despite these findings, a Cochrane review of studies concluded that the quality of studies was poor.
Of the studies reviewed, some reported benefits while others did not.
Fennel
Fennelis an herb with a licorice-like taste and celery-like crunch.
It contains a compound calledanetholethat is believed by some to relieve spasms.
The researchers were unable to say which of the two extracts was more active.
A 2020 review found fennel reduced pain intensity as effectively as conventional drug therapy and more effectively than placebo.
However, the authors stated further studies are needed to confirm their results.
All parts of the fennel plant are edible.
The bulb can be added raw to salads or cooked to flavor soups.
The fronds and dried fennel seeds can be added as a spice.
Fennel extract is available as an oil and as a capsule.
Chamomile
The anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties ofchamomileare believed to be what helps relieve menstrual cramps.
Research shows that chamomile can reduce the pain of menstrual cramps better than a placebo.
In addition, chamomile has been found to alleviate mood symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Chinese Herbs
Traditional Chinese herbs are commonly used to treat different menstrual problems.
They are usually combined into specific blends that can vary from one practitioner to the next.
Some studies suggest that Chinese herbs may actually help.
The review included 39 studies and a total of 3,475 women.
There are several Chinese herbs that are most commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat menstrual cramps.
Dang-Gui-Shao-Yao-San
Dang-Gui-Shao-Yao-San contains angelica root and red peony root and has both sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.
Xiao Yao San
Xiao Yao Sanis a blend of herbs used for centuries in TCM.
The dried ingredients can be hand-blended or purchased as a dietary supplement.
Chinese herbs can be made into tea using loose herbs and are also available in capsule form.
Pycnogenol
Pycnogenolis a registered trademark of a French extract containing maritime pine bark.
Another study in 2014 reported similar results among women onoral birth controlwho used Pycnogenol for three months.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is thought to reduce menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation and pain triggered by prostaglandins.
Peppermint
Menthol is an active component in peppermint that is thought to have an analgesic effect.
The fresh or dried leaves of peppermint can be used in food or as tea.
However, it may require taking a more concentrated form such as peppermint extract to relieve menstrual cramps.
Further quality research is needed.
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