Menstrual Hygiene Day: How to ease period pain? Follow these 5 Ayurvedic remedies

Menstrual cycles may not go down well for everyone. Some women are able to get through their cycles without any serious discomfort. On the other hand, for other women, Aunt Flo’s monthly visits are accompanied by an awful co-guest – “period pain”. Wondering how to ease period pain? Well, here are some Ayurvedic tips from an expert to help relieve or manage menstrual cramps.

FYI, everyone experiences period pain and cramps a little bit, but severe and frequent period cramps are known as dysmenorrhoea which happen due to abnormal contractions in your uterus during the monthly menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of dysmenorrhoea

The symptoms vary for different women, but here are some common symptoms:

• Cramps in the lower abdomen
• Low back discomfort
• The pain is spreading down the legs
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Fainting
• Headaches

Since these symptoms may look like other conditions or medical problems, always consult your health care provider if you continue to experience such symptoms.

Ayurvedic remedies to get rid of period pain

Women’s issues are given special attention in Ayurveda. Be it period pain, fertility concerns, sexual issues, or white discharge, Ayurveda can help. The traditional science recommends a variety of treatments for menstrual pain.

Ayurvedic expert Vaidya Shakuntala Devi tells Health Shots, “According to Ayurveda, the menstrual cycle is a vata-dominant period. Vata is the downward-moving element that is responsible for menstrual blood flow.” Vata can be aggravated by rigorous activity, resulting in discomfort and bleeding issues. During the menstrual cycle, many women endure nausea, bloating, cramps, and discomfort.

Fortunately, Ayurveda has been popular for treating irregular menstrual cycles, gynaecological issues, and obstetric concerns.

Here are some natural Ayurvedic remedies to ease period pain:

1. Lifestyle changes

“Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating habits helps in overcoming period complications and leads to a healthy menstrual cycle. Physical health can be achieved by eating healthy and nutritious foods, frequent exercise, yoga, physical activity, and outdoor activities,” says Shakuntala.

2. Stay active

Regular walks, practicing yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises are beneficial in lowering hormone levels. It promotes physical and emotional well-being. Moreover, these activities can also help you reduce your stress level. Managing stress levels is really important because it can negatively impact your menstrual cycle.

Also, avoid strenuous physical activity during menstruation.

3. Massage

A massage using essential oils can help cure period pain. Shakuntala says, “A gentle oil massage all over the body also helps in maintaining Vata balance in the body, which can further lead to healthy periods.” Massage focuses on the glutes and lower back to relieve pressure in the lower back will help immensely with period pain.

4. Herbs

Many Ayurvedic herbs can help soothe your period cramps. “Shatavri, Ashoka tree, and Panchkarma are some of the Ayurvedic herbs which act as an organic cure for irregular periods or painful periods,” says Shakuntala. Along with them, you can also try bhatakesi, kachur, ajwain, methi seeds, gud (jaggery), and till ka tel (sesame oil). But it’s strongly recommended to use Ayurvedic herbs only after consulting an Ayurvedic gynaecologist.

5. Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help you stay healthy. While staying hydrated is vital during the summer, it is much more important during the menstrual cycle. It can aid in the relief of period pain and discomfort. You can also drink flavoured water, chamomile tea, or carom tea in addition to water.

Furthermore, Ayurvedic remedies for menstrual complications have proven to function better in certain situations, and they are safer than allopathic medications.