Also known as Dysmenorrhea is the pain in the lower abdomen that one experiences during menstruation. The pain can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, leg pain and back pain. This throbbing pain is experienced in the lower abdomen before and during the periods. Uterine fibroids and endometriosis can result in menstrual cramps. It is important to treat the pain.
What are the symptoms of menstrual cramps?
The intensity of menstrual cramps may vary and the types of symptoms might also vary. Following are the common symptoms one tends to experience-
1. Abdominal pain
This pain is experienced in the pelvic area or lower abdomen and it begins one to two days prior and can typically last 2-3 days.
2. Pain in thighs
Women particularly feel aching down the inner this and it is caused by nerve connections down the uterus.
3. Nausea or vomiting
Vomiting is related to hormonal fluctuations and the uterine contractions trigger the digestive system.
4. Loose stools
Prostaglandins are the chemicals which trigger contractions and they affect the bowels.
5. Headache
A sudden drop in the estrogen leads to migraine.
What are the causes of menstrual cramps?
While on period, your uterus contracts to expel its lining. Prostaglandins trigger the uterine muscle contractions and the higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with severe menstrual cramps. The cramps can be caused by-
· Adenomyosis
It is the tissue that lines your uterus.
· Cervical stenosis
The opening of the cervix is small enough to impede the menstrual flow. This causes a painful increase of pressure within the uterus.
· Endometriosis
It is the tissue that acts similar to the lining of the uterus.
What are the ayurvedic medicines for menstrual pain?
Feeling pain around your thighs, lower back and abdomen is common during menstruation. In some cases, the pain can be overwhelming that women might find it tough to perform their daily activities. The pain happens due to contractions in the uterus. Following are the ayurvedic medicines for menstrual pain-
1. Shatavari
This well-known ayurvedic herb used for supporting women’s reproductive health. The drug also acts as a phytoestrogen which helps stabilize hormonal fluctuations that lead to painful periods. The medicine also balance vata and pitta doshas.
The antispasmodic properties of the drug help relax uterine muscles. This reduces cramping and abdominal pain. The medicine reduces stress and mood swings associated with menstruation.
Shatavari stabilized cycle and eases cramps. It restores hormonal balance and reduces spasms and pain. The herb not only corrects hormonal balance but also make the menstrual cycle regular
2. Maharishi Ayurveda Restone
This powder is an ayurvedic formulation which has been designed to support female reproductive health. It helps aid hormonal balance and reduce menstrual pain. The herbs present in the medicine are known for balancing and nourishing effects on the human body. This is one of the best ayurvedic medicines for menstrual pain. Ayurvedic Restone contains herbs like Ashoka and Shatavari that help relax the uterine muscles. It also reduces cramping and pain during periods. It also helps to regulate estrogen levels naturally. It reduces the symptoms like mood swings. The medicine helps in regulating balance menstrual flow. It is especially helpful for irregular or delayed periods. The herbs like Lodhra and Dashmool lower inflammation and also eases abdominal discomfort. One should take 1-2 teaspoons of the drug twice with milk or warm water. The best time to take the drug is after meals. The drug is a synergistic combination of Safed Chandan, Peepal, Shatavari and Ashoka. These herbs help women manage menstrual cramps. The drug is available in tablet and syrup form.
3 Asafoeteda
Hing, also known as Asafoeteda is a natural ingredient which promotes digestion. This anti-inflammatory drug is an amazing medicine for period pain. It also helps regulate progesterone secretion. This results in smoother and easier flow. This promotes easier flow. The effects of the herb reduce uterine contractions and also alleviate pain associated with menstruation. The recommended dosage is 500-650 mg of purified asafetida and it should be taken three times daily. There are no significant side effects associated with Hing use. It is very important to consult a healthcare professional before starting a full-fledged treatment.
4. Ajwain
Carom seeds or Ajwain is a cooking ingredient which can be used as a remedy for menstrual cramps and it promotes relaxation. The herb relaxes uterine muscles which eases period pain. The drug also reduces bloating and indigestion.
How to make Ajwain tea?
· Take two to three pinches of ajwain seeds and two cups of water.
· Add honey for taste.
· Add the seeds to water and boil the entire mixture until the water reduces to half.
· Strain the mixture and drink the tea two to three times a day.
5. Ginger
Prostaglandins are chemicals responsible for uterine contractions and ginger inhibits the synthesis of these chemicals. The compounds such as Shogaol and Gingerol reduce the pain and inflammation associated with menstrual pain. The herb also proves to be a muscle relaxant and helps relaxes the smooth muscles which eases cramps.
Taking ginger is highly recommended for alleviating period cramps. It is the most cost effective way to get rid of period pain.
How to use ginger?
· Take 1-2 inches of fresh ginger and add two cups of water.
· Honey or lemon is optional.
· One should boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes, strain and sip!
· Ginger tea should be consumed 2-3 times a day for better results.
6. Sesame oil
The oil is highly effective in curing period cramps. The hormone regulating properties of the oil stand out and help pacify period pain. The oil contains compounds such as Vitamin E and Linoleic acid. These compounds reduce oxidative stress and alleviate menstrual cramps. Magnesium in the oil has muscle-relaxing properties which ease menstrual cramps. The oil aids in regulating hormonal fluctuations during menstruation.
It is one of the best ayurvedic medicines for menstrual pain. Its efficacy can be attributed to its antioxidant properties.
Research References & Credible Sources
1. Menstrual Cramps & Prostaglandins
Mayo Clinic – Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)
2. Shatavari and Hormonal Balance
NIH – Phytoestrogenic Properties of Shatavari
3. Asafoetida & Menstrual Health
PubMed – Anti-inflammatory effects of Asafoetida
4. Ginger for Dysmenorrhea
Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
5. Ajwain (Carom Seeds) & Digestive/Menstrual Benefits
ResearchGate – Pharmacological Actions of Ajwain
6. Sesame Oil for Cramps
NIH – Antioxidant & Hormonal Impact of Sesame Oil