10 Natural Remedies For Relieving Menstrual Cramps

If over-the-counter medications don’t help your pain, consider alternative remedies. Natural remedies tend not to have side effects and should give you some relief:

1. Heating pad. Not just any heating pad though. Most store bought heating pads don’t get very hot. Look for Thermophore because they’re known for intense moist heat.

2. Hot Tea. Dong Quai is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to alleviate menstrual cramps and PMS. The hot water will also soothe cramped muscles.

3. Yoga. Doing yoga stretches cramped muscles and relieves back pain. Even just a few minutes of yoga poses can give you some relief.

4. Hot bath. For years I only took showers during my period. The idea of steeping in my own juices was just not appealing until one day my significant other said, ‘Take a hot bath.’ Duh. It works wonders. Fill the tub with epsom salts which are made of magnesium to speed muscle relaxation.

5. Magnesium. This mineral is a natural muscle relaxant and a stool softener. Careful though — take too much and it will give you diarrhea.

6. Aromatherapy. Plants contain powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can help balance your hormones. Mix your own essential oil blend or buy one targeted for PMS.

7. Chiropractic. Spinal manipulation has a direct effect on your nervous system. A spinal adjustment takes the pressure off soft tissues and can bring instant relief.

8. Acupuncture. We all have energy flowing through us — chi. When chi is blocked, illness results. Acupuncture releases blocked energy and restores health. Your acupuncturist will most likely give you some Chinese herbs. Make sure to take them so you get the full benefit of the treatment.

9. Acupressure. Like acupuncture, but without the needles. You or a partner use fingers to relieve pain by pressing on certain pressure points. Acupressure can also trigger the release of endorphins — neurochemicals that help relieve pain.

10. Massage. A professional massage is always a pain and stress releiver, but in a pinch self massage is good too. Massage is proven to relase endorphins. Use an aromatherapy blend to relieve cramped muscles.