The natural process of your monthly menstrual period often passes routinely, and like many women, you probably don't pay much attention to it. For some women, however, menstruation brings discomfort and sometimes debilitating pain from cramping. Your physician may prescribe medications to relieve symptoms, but you may wish to ease your pain naturally with herbal cures. Consult your doctor before taking any herbal remedies.
Belladonna
Highly toxic when taken in large doses, belladonna can help relieve severe menstrual cramping. This herbal remedy has long been used as a treatment for a range of conditions, from gastrointestinal disorders to nighttime incontinence. According to the "Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," belladonna may effectively treat cramping during your period because of its ability to relax the smooth muscles of your internal organs. Go Ask Alice, Columbia University's Health Q&A Internet Service, indicates that menstrual cramping occurs from contractions of the uterus. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that belladonna can also be taken as a homeopathic remedy for menstrual pain if the pain mimics labor pains, or sharp pressure in the pelvic region along with heavy bleeding. No research supports belladonna's use for this purpose. Take belladonna according to the instructions of your physician, herbalist or homeopath to avoid an overdose.
Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal may provide pain relief from menstruation. Often used to induce menstrual bleeding, this herb can be used externally to ease pain from period cramping. You can apply pennyroyal oil to the areas of your body that are cramping, specifically the lower stomach and pelvis. However, pennyroyal oil may cause irritation if it comes in contact with the vulva and vagina. An alternative method of use is allowing the steam from pennyroyal tea to come in contact with the vaginal area. Avoid taking pennyroyal orally; MedlinePlus notes that ingesting this herb may result in serious kidney and liver damage and may affect your central nervous system. There is no research to confirm that pennyroyal effectively alleviates pain associated with cramping.
Black Haw
Black haw, a species of viburnum, has long served as an herbal remedy for muscle spasms, according to MotherNature.com. The website notes that the root bark of this plant allegedly has four compounds that may relax uterine muscles. HerbalEd.org reveals that black haw may be particularly effective for relieving period pain if cramps cause lower back pain and pelvic pressure, and recommends a dosage of black haw tincture at 1/4 tsp. every two to four hours. Black haw is also available in pill form or taken as a tea, according to Drugs.com. See an herbalist for the correct dosage. No severe side effects are known -- but neither is there any research that proves black haw's usefulness in treating period pain.
