For some ladies, the monthly plagues of menstrual cramps are more than just a mild irritant. Some women require time off work because of severe period pain - forced to endure frustrated days spent doubled over in bed. It’s easy to reach for a quick tablet alleging some instant cure, but there are plenty of natural remedies available that save us pennies, as well as keeping the pain at bay for longer.

Stretch it out

Period pains are caused by contractions of the uterus, and yoga is an easy way to calm these contractions. Different poses held for different lengths of time stretch the body and release tension. As well as being a muscle loosener, yoga helps to relax your mind – relieving any other stresses or tension.

Supplements

Our good old friend omega-3 is back, and this time he’s here to stop period pains. Look for food and supplements rich with this little healer, as he’s known to reduce prostaglandin levels which contribute to the contraction of muscles. Alternatively, you can go straight for a supplement made solely with women in mind. Chaste tree is a bittersweet, slightly astringent herb that helps to support female hormonal functions – bringing an end to the pain in a natural way.

Fancy a brew?

Sipping hot tea is not just relaxing - it’s thought to have both cramp relieving and mood enhancing qualities! Normal tea is fine, but herbal teas are crammed full of antioxidants and vitamins that really help ease and alleviate menstrual cramps.

Ease the pain with massage

A multitude of massages can be used to alleviate menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Not only does massage calm you down, it works to ease the muscle tension collected in various parts of the body. Massage rollers are a particularly effective way of lessening the ache in your lower back.

Posted by Matilda Jones