On some occasions, the period is accompanied by severe abdominal pain and swelling that is difficult to bear. The punctures follow one another and it is difficult for us to bear the pressure in the area, although always within a normal range, because when the pain is unbearable or does not go away with ibuprofen, we should consult a doctor.
Those moments of menstrual pain always lead us to resort to anti-inflammatories, however, you should know that there are many other remedies to relieve pain and many of them natural. There are different medicinal plants whose properties we can benefit from and that will help us cope with lower back and abdominal discomfort, colic, diarrhea or the ailments that periods can cause us. Below we leave you the 7 most infallible medicinal plants to calm menstrual pain. Take note.
The best medicinal herbs to soothe period pain
- Ginger
An Indian proverb affirms that “everything good is found in ginger” and that is that it is a root that will bring us many benefits and not only to deal with menstrual pain. It is anti-inflammatory (Look! Just like ibuprofen but it is not a pill) and the recommended amount is two infusions a day maximum. If we consume more it can be counterproductive for our body.
To prepare the infusion you only have to put 2 tablespoons of its sliced root in a cup of boiling water. Subsequently, let it rest for 10 minutes and then strain it.
- The cinnamon
Known as an aphrodisiac and perfect for desserts, the truth is that cinnamon has other properties as well, including a relaxing, anti-inflammatory and spasmodic effect, which promotes uterine contraction. It has an advantage and that is that, if you like the taste, you will enjoy the infusion. You will only need boiling water and cinnamon sticks. Let it rest for 5 minutes, add honey to sweeten and enjoy.
- Chamomile
It is one of the infusions -not to say the most- known to all and also the most prepared by mothers. Chamomile helps to “settle the stomach” thanks to its relaxing properties and also helps reduce inflammation.
- White willow
Taking it in adequate amounts and without abusing it, like most medicinal plants, white willow is one of the most effective for menstrual discomfort thanks to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. To prepare it, put a level tablespoon in boiling water. Two minutes later, turn off the heat and let it rest for another 10 minutes. Later it only remains to strain it.
The disadvantage of white willow is that it does not taste very good, so it is recommended to mix it with other herbs that taste better.
- Valerian
Used for times of stress, it is another infusion that will help you relax and soothe menstrual pain. You can take advantage of its double benefit to take it before going to sleep and to relax on the couch at times when these pains also coincide with very high levels of work pressure.
- Anise
Thanks to its calming effect, this infusion will manage to relieve uterine spasms and, therefore, will reduce the aches and pains of menstruation but, in addition, it will facilitate intestinal transit, which can be altered on these days of the month.
If you don’t know how to prepare an infusion like this, you can save time with a simple and twice as effective solution: chamomile with anise. Thus, you will combine the properties of two medicinal plants in one.
- Sage
For diffuse symptoms of menstrual pain: headache, dizziness, weakness… Sage is a good help as it contains antispasmodic and sedative properties. You can buy it in any herbalist in leaves, in liquid extract or in capsules.