painful cramps? Many women suffer from painful
periods, unaware of the effective natural remedies
that can make their periods more comfortable. In my
practice as an acupuncturist, I have seen many
patients go from taking maximum doses of ibuprofen
or acetaminophen during their periods to using little
or none at all, just by implementing a few simple
strategies.
1. Supplement Yourself
Take calcium and magnesium supplements
throughout the month, as these nutrients work in
concert to aid muscle relaxation. You should aim for
a total of about 1000mg of calcium daily, and up to
500mg of magnesium daily. If you experience loose
stools, reduce the dose.
2. Try a Tea
Raspberry leaf is considered to be a mild uterine
tonic. Try a cup of raspberry leaf tea each day
throughout the month. It is available at Whole Foods
by the company Traditional Medicinals. Keep in
mind you are looking for the herbal tea, not
raspberry-flavored black tea!
3. Eat More Greens
Dark leafy greens are a dietary source of magnesium,
calcium, and countless other micronutrients. These
nutrients are essential for mediating muscle
contractions. In Chinese dietary therapy, dark green
vegetables are also considered to be mildly cleansing,
which is what the body needs in a "stagnation"
condition. Some greens such as dandelion greens
(very bitter, but very helpful) also have a mild diuretic which reduces bloating.
4. Cut Down on Coffee
Caffeine, especially from coffee, is a well-known
vasoconstrictor – it makes blood vessels constrict.
Indeed, it may cause the vessels that feed the uterus
to tighten more than they do in non-coffee drinkers.
If you're a diehard coffee drinker and can't cut it out
entirely, try avoiding it just in the week before your
period and see if you notice a change.
5. Use a Heating Pad
A heating pad or hot water bottle is a simple, tried
and true way to reduce muscle spasms.
6. Try Acupuncture
Certain acupuncture points are thought to regulate
blood flow through the abdominal cavity and relax
the nervous system, which can help calm muscular
contractions. Studies show that acupuncture is just
as effective as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory
medicines for reducing pain.
In addition to pain relief, don't be surprised if these
changes also lead to better digestion, better sleep,
and a steadier mood. However, if these measures are
not enough to improve your quality of life, an
acupuncturist or naturopath can offer you further
refinement of natural strategies.
Also, keep in mind that excessively painful
menstruation can be a sign of a more serious
underlying medical issue, such as endometriosis, a
uterine infection, or a problem with the uterine
anatomy. Don't forget to consult your primary care
provider to make sure these possibilities are
addressed, especially if you just can't seem to get your
pain under control.
Goodluck.
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