These 7 Ayurvedic herbs will work like magic to soothe your period cramps

Ayurveda has a cure for everything and painful menstrual cramps are no different. Here are Ayurvedic herbs that will soothe those raging menstrual cramps and bring you comfort.

A doctor could help diagnose the cause for experiencing cramps when not on periods. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Dr Partap Chauhan Updated: 10 May 2021, 10:25 am IST

Bleeding for those five days in a month is a reality of every woman’s life. During periods, your body uses up excess energy in cleansing the reproductive system of accumulated ama (toxins). New blood cells (Rakta Dhatu) are created to replenish the loss, and this is possible only when you allow your body to rest.

However, you can’t deny that crankiness, mood swings, and painful cramps make your body and mind work overtime. Many, in fact, find it extremely tough to carry out even the daily activities due to menstrual cramps. But, did you know that Ayurveda has remedies to soothe those as well?

Here are seven Ayurvedic herbs that will help you soothe your period cramps:

1. Bhutakesi (Corydalis govaniana)
A member of the bleeding-heart family, Bhutakesi grows in the Himalayas, particularly around Kashmir. It is commonly prescribed for relief in period cramps. Add 1 to 2 grams of the powder in a cup of boiling water, strain, add honey, and drink twice a day.

common period problems — When uncomfortable symptoms turns into excessive symtoms, you must look closely. Image Courtesy: Shutterstock

2. Kachur (Curcuma zedoaria)
Described as an ‘emmenagogue’, Kachur is very beneficial in easing period cramps. Take 1 to 3 grams of the herb with lukewarm water, or you can also get capsules of 300 to 450 mg. Another way to benefit from Kachur is to prepare a root infusion with a quarter-inch long piece of the root boiled in 50 ml water until it reduces to half.

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3. Ajwain (Carom Seeds)
This simple kitchen herb is very effective in dealing with a range of muscular and abdominal cramps, either caused by menses or because of digestive distress. Take Ajwain Tea for relief in the muscular cramps. Add 2 generous pinches of Ajwain in 2 cups of water and boil it until it reduces to half. Strain add honey and drink two to three times a day.

4. Methi seeds (Fenugreek)
Another common kitchen herb with a proven track record of relieving period pain is Methi. Soak a teaspoon of Methi in a glass or normal water overnight. Next morning, drink it whole with the seeds if possible, or you may choose to strain the seeds out. Mix a small pinch of black salt if you wish.

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5. Gud (Jaggery)
Jaggery is a great Vata pacifier. Substitute sugar with jaggery at least 3 to 5 days before you anticipate your period cycle to begin. A great way to combine Methi-Ajwain and Gudd is to make small M&M sized balls with these three ingredients. You can take 2-3 of these on an empty stomach with a sip of warm water.

6. Ghritkumari (Aloe Vera)
Aloe is a woman’s best friend. One of its vast range of health applications is pain relief in period cramps. Drink a glass of aloe vera juice on an empty stomach every morning and you will see your health improving drastically. If you can’t take it daily, then consider drinking it 3 to 5 days before cramps set it. You can continue drinking it throughout your periods.

7. Till ka tel (Sesame Oil)
Massage your lower abdomen with sesame oil with gentle downward strokes. For best results, you may want to slightly warm the oil, and then apply a little warmth with a hot water bag over a light blanket.

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These remedies are generalized in nature. For the personalized treatment of irregular menses or other gynaecological problems, please consult a doctor instead of self-medicating.

NOTE: It is strongly recommended that you consult an Ayurvedic gynaecologist before using these herbs.