Each woman experiences her menstrual cramps different from the next. While some may have mild cases that are fairly tolerable, others are not as fortunate. For some women, menstrual cramps can feel very discomforting and painful. It’s important to note these are natural occurrences that accompany the menstrual cycle and can be remedied through natural methods. While these remedies are not foolproof or will eliminate the pain completely, it can assist in getting you back to your normal day to day activities during your period.
Raspberry Leaf Tea
This tea is better known as the “woman’s tea” that has many useful purposes. It is used in fertilization, a healthy pregnancy, inducing labor and promoting healthy lactation. It also has the use of helping your uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size after giving birth.
When those painful cramps start creeping up, brew yourself a hot cup of raspberry leaf tea. This can be found in natural leaf form or in bags, such as through Yogi tea. What red raspberry does is help strengthen uterine walls and provide your body with minerals that replenish the body. Both the warmth and the benefits of red raspberry leaf tea can help reduce the discomforts of menstrual cramps.
Heating Pad
There are several natural ways to create your own natural heating pads which do not consist of going out and purchasing one. The easiest way is to fill an old sock with rice and heating in the microwave for a few minutes. (Do not use instant rice.) Another way is to warm (not boil) a pot of water. You can then transfer this into a water bottle and secure tightly.
Take your heating pad (or warm bottle wrapped in a towel) and place on the location of your body where the cramps are the strongest. It is possible you’ll need more than one heating pad for this.
Iron-rich Foods
Before your period even begins, you’ll want to be sure your diet contains enough iron. Those with low-iron levels or who are anemic tend to have stronger cramps. Iron-rich foods include beans, various cereals, eggs and turkey. To enhance the absorption of iron, it is a good idea to pair with vitamin-C foods such as oranges, strawberries and tomatoes. However, calcium can block iron-absorption so try not to eat calcium-rich foods within an hour or two of consuming your iron.
Getting Active
Believe it or not, menstrual cramps can begin to diminish with the inclusion of physical activity. This should be incorporated into your lifestyle both during your period and while you are not on it. Get up, do some stretching and then take a walk. The movement and regular exercise can assist in reducing the severity of the cramps. However, be gentle to your body and listen to its needs. Yoga can serve as an ideal and gentle exercise.
