Menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, are cramping pains in your lower abdominal region. MayoClinic.com states that many women suffer menstrual cramps during and just prior to their menstrual periods. Menstrual cramp-related discomfort ranges from annoying to severe. In some cases, menstrual cramps may impair your ability to perform your usual daily activities for several days each month. Herbal treatments may help relieve the pain or discomfort of your menstrual cramps, although it is always wise to discuss the use of herbs with your doctor before taking them.
Menstrual Cramps
Although menstrual cramps usually cause cramping sensations in your lower abdomen, you may also experience sharp or aching abdominal pain. In some cases, you may even experience back pain. MedlinePlus states that dysmenorrhea is the primary cause of missed work and school days in teenage girls and women in their twenties. You may be more likely to experience painful menstrual cramps if you are under 20 years of age, bleed heavily during your periods, have not delivered a baby and reached puberty at an early age.
Herbal Relief Options
There are many herbal treatment options that may help treat your menstrual cramps. In "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," naturopathic doctor Sharol Tilgner states that effective herbs for treating menstrual cramps include dong quai, cramp bark, valerian, blue cohosh and Jamaican dogwood. These herbs possess anti-inflammatory properties and help decrease muscle spasms. Taking these herbs together or individually, notes Tilgner, may help relieve menstrual cramp-related pain or discomfort.
A Commonly Used Herb
Cramp bark is one of the most commonly used herbs in treating menstrual cramps. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," cramp bark, also known as guelder rose, reduces muscle spasms--including genitourinary muscle spasms--and pain, and is particularly effective in treating menstrual cramps and muscle spasms in your lower back and legs. Cramp bark is a uterine sedative and tonic, states Tilgner.
Additional Information
To help complement herbal treatments for menstrual cramps, consider placing a hot water bottle over your abdomen or lower back. Hot baths containing essential oils may also help relieve your menstrual cramps. Yoga and deep breathing exercises are helpful treatment approaches, too. For the most relevant and accurate information about menstrual cramp treatments, including effective herbal remedies, visit a naturopathic doctor or a medical doctor trained in botanical medicine. Avoid using herbs without the instruction or guidance of a trained health care professional.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Menstrual cramps
- MedlinePlus: Painful menstrual periods
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
