Cinnamon is used for a variety of conditions, such as diarrhea, dysmenorrhea and other gastrointestinal disorders. If you have very painful menstrual cramps, cinnamon alone may not be potent enough to alleviate cramping and menstrual pain. If you have painful menstrual cycles, talk to your healthcare provider about which remedies she recommends to combat the pain and cramping.
Cinnamon and Cramps
Cinnamon, according to Drugs.com, does help ease painful menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, although, there is limited information to support this. Cinnamon is also used to combat microorganisms, and research is now focusing on the use of cinnamon for anti-inflammatory purposes. Cinnamon may also be a useful antioxidant and help control antimicrobial activity, but more research is needed to back up these claims.
Home Remedies for Cramps
If you suffer from painful menstrual cramps, you can apply a heating pad to your lower abdomen. Do not fall asleep with the heating pad on as you could burn yourself. Light circular massages may also bring comfort and help ease cramps. Lying down with your feet elevated or on your side with bent knees can help relieve cramps, according to MedlinePlus. A warm shower or bath may also help relieve menstrual cramping, as can practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can help relieve pain and cramping associated with your menstrual cycle. MedlinePlus recommends taking anti-inflammatory medications the day before your menstrual cycle is supposed to start and to continue taking it as directed for the first few days of your menstrual cycle. Calcium, magnesium and vitamin B-6 supplements are recommended by MedlinePlus to help relieve cramps and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consuming omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, in addition to taking calcium, magnesium and vitamin B-6 supplements.
Exercise
Exercising regularly and walking while on your menstrual period can help relieve pain and cramping. You may have to perform light exercises for the first few days of your menstrual cycle instead of your usual exercises if you are in a great deal of pain. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends exercising five days a week for 30 minutes a day. Losing weight may help relieve some of the discomfort and cramping associated with menstrual cycles if you are overweight.
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