Menstruation corresponds to the shedding of blood resulting from the breakdown of the excess uterine lining that thickened throughout the menstrual cycle, in the absence of fertilization.
However, uterine contractions generated by the production of prostaglandins promote the expulsion of this superficial part of the endometrium.
When they are present in excessive amounts, the uterine muscle lacks oxygen because the blood vessels are too compressed: pain appears in the pelvic region. This is called primary dysmenorrhea.
However, when pain appears in adulthood — referred to as secondary dysmenorrhea — it may hide an underlying condition: ovarian cysts, fibroids, or even endometriosis.
To limit menstrual pain and discomfort, natural solutions are available. Essential oils, a hot water bottle placed on the abdomen, massages…
But drinking herbal teas has also proven effective!
Read also | The best dietary supplements for menstrual pain and PMS according to a pharmacist
1. Chamomile to reduce digestive issues
The chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a plant known for soothing digestive disorders. However, in premenstrual syndrome, and even in the middle of menstruation, it is not uncommon to experience intestinal discomfort.
In addition, it is also recommended for uterine and digestive cramps due to its richness in flavonoids: you get two benefits at once!
You can consume three to four cups per day, using 3 grams of chamomile per cup.
2. Lady’s mantle to calm heavy bleeding
Alchemilla, also called “women’s herb”, has several benefits for women’s health.
It is said to be a luteotropic plant: it helps increase progesterone levels at the end of the menstrual cycle, when this hormone is decreasing.
By regulating progesterone, alchemilla helps reduce an excessively heavy menstrual flow during menstruation.
Alchemilla also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that make it a useful plant for combating uterine pain.
You can prepare it by using 1 tablespoon in a cup of boiling water, after steeping for 5 minutes. Ideally? Drink two to three cups per day.
3. Lemon balm to reduce stress during PMS
The lemon balm is a plant known for fighting stress and anxiety. Its calming and relaxing properties are therefore welcome during premenstrual syndrome.
It also helps relieve cramps related to menstruation.
To enjoy its benefits, drink it as an herbal tea by adding 2 teaspoons of leaves to a cup of boiling water, and let steep for about 5 minutes.
4. Yarrow, fennel, and ginger to relieve spasms
Several plants are known to relieve menstrual muscle spasms due to the chemical compounds they contain:
- the yarrow, rich in flavonoids and azulene, has antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties that make it a good ally
- the ginger (no, it’s not just an aphrodisiac!) also relieves abdominal pain from menstruation
- the fennel, thanks to the fenchone it contains, helps reduce spasms
This list is not exhaustive: the other herbal teas mentioned above also have antispasmodic effects, as do teas made from raspberry leaves or clove buds.
Put a teaspoon of one of these plants into a cup of boiling water, and let steep for 5 minutes to enjoy their benefits.
5. Valerian for its calming and sedative properties
The valerian (Valeriana officinalis), which is often found in teas that aid sleep, is calming, sedative and antispasmodic.
If you suffer from uterine pain in the evening, it’s therefore a good time to consume it: it will ease your discomfort and help you drift off to sleep.
Take a teaspoon of valerian in a cup of boiling water, and let steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
My tips for relieving menstrual pain with an herbal tea
To make an herbal tea, the preparation method is always similar: you should let about 3 g of the plant steep for at least 5 minutes in a cup of very hot water.
If you don’t like the taste, you can also add a dash of lemon or ginger to make it more pleasant to drink.
Plants should not be taken lightly and can be potent. Be sure to take their contraindications into account before using them. If in doubt, talk to your doctor.
If your menstrual pains prevent you from carrying out daily activities and affect your quality of life, consult a healthcare professional: they may be hiding an underlying health problem.
Listen to our podcast | Cherished Cycles: Women’s Well-being & Nutrition
