Most women during their period cycle experience fatigue, mood swings, bloating, headaches and of course, unpleasant uterine pains. Menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, affects many women and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities.
Uterine cramps are caused by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which stimulate contractions and inflammation inside the uterus. During this unpleasant time of the month, women need supportive actions like good rest, hot bags and some soothing natural drinks. Though there are plenty of over-the-counter medications that may help deal with period pain, most women prefer natural cures to avoid possible side effects.
Here we have curated 5 natural drinks that can help ease period pain:
Five Natural Infusions To Ease Period Pain
Ginger Tea
Thanks to the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of ginger, which is highly beneficial in easing period pain. It helps reduce the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause inflammation and pain during menstruation.
Also Read: Menstrual Worries: 5 Different Period Problems And Their Ayurvedic Remedies
How to Make:
- Slice a piece of fresh ginger (about 1 inch) and add it to a cup of boiling water.
- Let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Filter and add honey or lemon to enhance the flavour.
Pro-Tip: Drink ginger tea 2-3 times a day during your period to help reduce cramps and discomfort.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is renowned for its calming effects and ability to reduce muscle spasms, making it an excellent choice for relieving menstrual cramps. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease pain.
Also Read: Yoga For Dysmenorrhea: Bid Goodbye To Menstrual Cramps With These Spectacular Poses
How to Make:
- Add a chamomile tea bag or 2-3 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a cup of boiling water.
- Let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and add honey if needed for taste.
Pro-Tip: Drinking chamomile tea before bedtime can also help improve sleep quality, which can be disrupted during menstruation.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea contains menthol, which has a natural muscle-relaxing effect. It can help soothe menstrual cramps and reduce bloating, making it a great choice for managing period pain.
How to Make:
- In a cup of boiling water add a peppermint tea bag or a teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves and let it brew well for 5 minutes.
- Strain and add honey if desired.
Pro-Tip: Peppermint tea can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it a versatile option for period pain relief.
Turmeric Milk (Golden Milk)
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Drinking turmeric milk can help reduce menstrual pain and promote overall well-being.
How to Make:
- Heat a cup of milk in a saucepan.
- Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder, and a pinch of black pepper (to promote curcumin to diffuse) and add maple syrup or honey for flavour.
- Brew well for a few minutes.
- Pour into a cup and enjoy.
Pro-Tip: Drinking turmeric milk before bedtime can promote better sleep and relaxation.
Cinnamon Tea
Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help alleviate menstrual cramps. It also helps regulate blood flow and reduce heavy bleeding.
How to Make:
- Add a cinnamon stick or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to a cup of boiling water.
- Let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Filter the tea and add honey for taste if needed.
Pro-Tip: Drinking cinnamon tea at the onset of your period can help manage pain more effectively.
Conclusion
Trying some of these natural infusions into your routine during menstruation can confer relief from period pain and discomfort. However, remember that these remedies can be helpful, but they are not a sure-shot solution hence it's important to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent pain.
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu, Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
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