Menstrual problems are one of the major woes that a woman has to face during her lifetime. Often problems arise due to the secretion of a hormone-like substance called as prostaglandin which owes to the contraction of the uterus muscles during menstruation. This can lead to a state of severe pain, often termed as a menstrual cramp. Menstrual cramps can subsequently lead to acute pains in the abdominal areas, thigh muscles and lower back regions. This pain persists from a day before the onset of the periods and may last for 3-4 days. The factors that increase the susceptibility of menstrual cramps include early puberty, hormonal imbalance, genetics etc. In certain cases, the cramps cease to appear after childbirth.
However to reduce the pain of menstrual cramps one can turn to some natural remedies that are readily available. Some of them are: 1. Heat: The best part of home remedies for menstrual cramps is applying heat on the lower abdomen is the easiest way to control menstrual cramps. It relaxes the contracting muscles in the uterus. 2. Ginger: Ginger is an ancient remedy that eases pains effectively. This herb plays a key role and wonderful home remedies for menstrual cramps in lowering the levels of the pain-causing prostaglandins. 3. Basil: The caffeic acid present in basil has analgesic, or pain-killing properties can heal menstrual cramps 4. Cinnamon: Cinnamon has antispasmodic, anti-clotting and anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve menstrual pain. 5. Fennel: Fennel seeds are rich in antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties can help relax the muscles in the uterus, which in turn relieves cramping and discomfort. 6. Blackstrap Molasses: Another time-tested remedy for menstrual cramps is blackstrap molasses. Molasses helps reduce blood clots and soothe the muscles of the uterine walls. 7. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties that help relax the uterus and ease the spasmodic contractions that cause pain during menstruation. It is one of the effective home remedies for menstrual cramps. 8. Parsley: Parsley contains two compounds, apiol and myristicin, that are highly effective at stimulating the menstrual process and relieving cramps. 9. Flaxseed: Home remedies for menstrual cramps include Flaxseeds. It is great for reducing the intensity of menstrual cramps. The essential fatty acids in flaxseed help stabilize the production of progesterone. 10. Papaya: A potent anti-inflammatory agent, papaya is very helpful in treating menstrual cramps. Vitamins A and C that help soothe the uterine walls and ease muscle contractions.
