Menstrual cramping is a medical condition known as dysmenorrhea. Some women are lucky and suffer minimal to no cramps, while others dread that time of month due to impending pain. There are homeopathic remedies available to treat painful menstrual cramps. Always seek the guidance of a licensed homeopathic professional before starting new treatments.
Açaí
Açaí is native to the northern region of Brazil. Açaí is a rich source of anthocyanins, a type of flavanoid. Açaí also contains protein, fiber, enzymes, vitamin E, amino acids, minerals, phytosterols and beneficial fatty acids. The evidence of effectiveness is purely anecdotal, as there have been no clinical trials on Açaí juice. HealthWise states that the dosage of açaí juice is 3.5 oz. per day. Powder dosage is 1 oz. of powder mixed with 10 to 12 oz. of water, one to two times daily. Capsule dosage is 1 to 2 grams per day.
Bilberry
The bilberry is related to the blueberry and is native to North America, Europe and northern Asia. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that bilberry can be used to treat menstrual cramps. Bilberry can be eaten as a fruit or taken as an extract. Healthline recommends a dosage of 55 to 115 grams three times a day of fresh berries, 80 to 480 mg of aqueous extract three times daily (standardized to 25 percent anthocyanosides of the aqueous extract) or 4 to 8 grams of druid fruit by mouth with water two times per day.
Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh is not related to black cohosh and is native to North America. Blue cohosh was used by Native Americans to induce labor or menstruation, as well as to ease menstrual cramps. Blue cohosh contains caulosaponin, which is believed to stimulate uterine contractions. The effectiveness of blue cohosh is purely anecdotal, as there are no published clinical trials. HealthWise recommends taking blue cohosh, which is generally taken in the form of a tincture, no more than 1 to 2 ml three times per day. The dosage for the whole herb is 300 to 1,000 mg per day.
Vitex
Vitex--sometimes referred to as chaste tree or monk's pepper--is native to Mediterranean countries and central Asia. Vitex increases progesterone production, helping to regulate the cycle as well as keeping prolactin secretion regulated. According to HealthWise, a controlled clinical trial found that women taking 20 mg per day of a concentrated Vitex extract for three menstrual cycles had a significant reduction in symptoms of PMS. Another double-blind trial indicated relieve from PMS, including cramping, as well. The German Commission E monograph recommends a daily intake of 30 to 40 mg of the dried herb, in capsules or in liquid preparations.
False Unicorn Root
False unicorn root is native to Mississippi and was used in traditional Native American herbalism to treat women's health issues, including painful menstrual cramps. Steroidal saponins are thought to be behind false unicorn's activity, but this has not been proven. According to HealthWise, the dosage of false unicorn root tincture is ½ to 1 tsp. three times per day. The dosage of the dried root is ¼ to ½ tsp. three times per day.
