Painful periods are an unpleasant reality for many women. These pains can greatly disrupt daily life, making it difficult to carry out normal tasks. Fortunately, several herbs have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that are effective in alleviating these ailments. This article looks at some natural options that may provide relief.
Sage: a plant with multiple virtues
Sage is widely recognized for its beneficial effects on the menstrual cycle. It contains phytoestrogens that help rebalance hormones, thereby reducing the severity of menstrual cramps.
How to use sage
Sage can be consumed as an infusion or essential oil. An infusion prepared with the leaves of this plant allows you to benefit from its calming properties. For the essential oil, a few drops diluted in a vegetable oil can be applied by massage on the lower abdomen.
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Infusion : Steep 1 to 2 grams of dried sage leaves in a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 10 minutes before consuming.
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Essential oil : Mix 3 to 4 drops of clary sage essential oil in 10 ml of vegetable oil (such as sweet almond oil) and gently massage the stomach.
Yarrow: soothing and well-being
Yarrow is known for its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. This plant can particularly help reduce heavy menstrual flow and alleviate associated pain.
How to prepare yarrow infusion
To make a yarrow infusion, nothing could be simpler. Just follow a few steps to take full advantage of its benefits:
- Measure out a teaspoon of dried yarrow flowers.
- Add it to a cup of boiling water.
- Let steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain and drink two to three cups daily during your period.
Turmeric: the golden spice with multiple benefits
Turmeric is not only appreciated in cooking, but also for its multiple medicinal virtues. Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, it helps to effectively relieve menstrual pain.
Integrating turmeric into your diet
Turmeric can easily be added to your daily diet. Here are some practical ideas:
- Add a teaspoon of turmeric to your smoothies for a morning anti-inflammatory boost.
- Add it to your soups, curries and other stews to benefit from its benefits while enjoying your favorite dishes.
- Make golden milk by mixing vegetable milk (almond, coconut), half a spoonful of turmeric, a pinch of black pepper, and honey.
Milk Thistle: Support for the Liver and Menstrual Cycle
Milk thistle is often used to support liver health, which plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance. By acting on the liver, this herb indirectly helps regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce pain.
How to benefit from milk thistle
Here are some simple ways to incorporate milk thistle into your routine:
- Consume it in the form of capsules available in pharmacies and specialist shops.
- Use ground milk thistle seeds which you can add to your salads or cooked dishes.
- Opt for an infusion by following this procedure: infuse a teaspoon of ground seeds in a cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes then drink two to three times a day.
Dill: an aromatic herb with therapeutic properties
Dill is not only a delicious aromatic herb; it is also a potential solution for painful periods. Rich in anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic agents, it can significantly help reduce cramps.
Prepare a dill herbal tea
Follow these simple steps to make an effective dill tea:
- Add one teaspoon of dill seeds to one cup of boiling water.
- Let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Drink up to three cups a day during your period.
Chamomile: the ultimate soothing infusion
Chamomile is probably one of the most well-known plants for its relaxing effect. It also has antispasmodic properties, which makes it a valuable ally against menstrual pain.
Drink chamomile tea
Nothing could be easier than preparing a chamomile infusion:
- Steep a tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of boiling water.
- Let steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Drink two to three cups a day.
Ragwort: a little-known but very effective plant
Also called senecio, groundsel is a lesser-known plant but renowned for relieving menstrual pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable ally for those who suffer during their cycle.
Using ragwort in herbal medicine
You can benefit from the benefits of groundsel in different ways, including through infusions or specific food supplements available in pharmacies.
- Prepare an infusion using one teaspoon of dried groundsel per cup of boiling water, infuse for 10 minutes and consume up to three times a day.
- Opt for ragwort capsules following the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.
Evening Primrose Oil: An Ancient Remedy for Menstrual Disorders
Evening primrose oil has been traditionally used to treat various female ailments, including menstrual cramps. It is rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which are necessary for proper hormonal balance.
Take evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil capsules are a popular option. Recommended doses typically range from 1000 to 2000 mg per day, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to adjust the dosage to your specific needs.
- Take one to two capsules of evening primrose oil daily, preferably with meals for better absorption.
