Menstrual cramps are a symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), although they occur during menstruation. The "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" reports that as many as 75 percent of women have some PMS symptoms, including cramping. In the days preceding a woman's period, her estrogen levels may fluctuate, which may trigger abdominal cramping once her period starts. Mild cramping might be relieved by some herbal remedies, but for severe cramping, a doctor should be seen to rule out an underlying medical condition.
Plant Hormones
The Mexican wild yam plant contains a mild form of progesterone that may ease cramping and other PMS symptoms. Available in a cream from health food stores, wild yam should be applied as directed on the package; an herbalist may also be consulted for dosage instructions.
Phytoestrogens are plant sources of estrogen that may help balance the hormone levels in a woman's body before and during her period. Herbal forms of phytoestrogen include black cohosh, red clover, dong quai, alfalfa, licorice root and hops. A certified herbalist or a doctor of naturopathy should recommend a dosage based upon individual needs.
Pain Relief
Once menstrual cramps begin, often just as soon as a woman's period starts, the focus is on easing the pain. Gale recommends herbs that may be help to reduce pain, including cramp bark, kava kava, black haw, rosemary and angelica. Follow package instructions or talk to a doctor.
Aromatherapy
The concentrated scents from plants and flowers, known as essential oils, may be beneficial in treating menstrual cramps. A drop or two of essential oils can be added to bathwater; inhaling the steamy scent may ease cramping and other PMS symptoms. Essential oils can also be added to massage oils. Beneficial oils include chamomile, sandalwood, rosemary, geranium and bergamot.
Herbal tea
In addition to specific herbs to treat cramps, Mother Nature.com suggests drinking hot herbal tea to warm up muscles and increase circulation, which may reduce cramping. Other hot drinks may also be beneficial, but coffee and caffeinated drinks should be avoided because caffeine may contribute to cramping.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Mother Nature.com: Menstrual Cramps
