Dysmenorrhea is severe pain or cramping that you experience during menstruation. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists--or ACOG--more than half of women who have periods experience some pain for at least one to two days a month. Your uterus is a muscle that contracts during your period, thereby causing pain. Prostaglandins, which are chemicals produced by the lining of the uterus, increase just before your period starts and are the primary hormone that cause uterine cramps. Valerian is a medicinal herb that may help relieve menstrual cramps, although there is insufficient evidence to support these claims.
Valerian
Valerian--also known as valeriana officinalis--is a perennial plant that is native to Europe, Asia and the northeastern United States. Medicinal uses of valerian date back to 400 B.C. with the Greek physician Hippocrates. Valerian is traditionally used to improve sleep and treat insomnia. However, it may also be effective for treating menstrual cramps. Take valerian in liquid tincture, tea, capsule and tablet form. Consult with your health care provider prior to taking valerian.
Effects
According to Herbal Ed, valerian contains valepotriates and valerenic acid, which can attach to the same brain receptor sites as Valium. This makes valerian beneficial for treating pain, anxiety and insomnia. Valerian also contains compounds that may help reduce smooth-muscle spasms and contractions. The Office of Dietary Supplements states that this herb may also increase the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid--or GABA--in the brain, which is an inhibitory transmitter that can help reduce anxiety and contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation.
Menstrual Cramp Relief
The uterus is comprised mainly of smooth muscle. Herbal Ed states that valerian can relax intestinal smooth muscle, which may make it effective for relaxing uterine smooth muscle as well. According to Herbs 2000, valerian has specific actions on the pelvic muscles and ligaments; therefore, it may provide quick relief from cramps and pelvic spasms. Take 1 tsp. of valerian tincture every three to four hours to help relieve menstrual pain. Consult with your health care provider or a certified herbalist prior to taking valerian for menstrual cramps.
Side Effects
According to Timothy Morgenthaler, a physician and Mayo Clinic sleep specialist, valerian is generally considered safe but may cause side effects such as headaches, dizziness, digestive disturbances and sleeplessness. Since valerian can have sedative effects, you may also experience drowsiness and sedation with large doses. This herb may also interact with other sleep aids and increase the sedative effects of certain depressants such as alcohol. Consult with your health care provider if you experience side effects when taking valerian.
Precautions
According to Healthsquare, consider certain precautions before taking valerian. Use caution when taking valerian if you have severe allergies. Although rare, a severe allergic reaction may occur causing symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness and difficulty breathing. Consult with your health care provider if you have any liver problems prior to taking valerian. Valerian liquid tinctures may contain alcohol or sugar so use caution if you have diabetes, liver disease or alcohol dependence. Do not use valerian if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
References
- "HerbalGram: Valerian"; Gayle Engels; 2008
- ACOG: Dysmenorrhea
- Herbal Ed: Menstrual Cramps: An Herbal Approach
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Valerian
- Herbs 2000: Painful Cramping Menstruation
