5 Natural Remedies to Soothe Menstrual Cramps
Posted on February 13 2020
Cramps are no fun; we all know this. But, instead of having to pop ibuprofen like candy, using natural remedies can help alleviate these symptoms by bringing the hormones back into balance. At MYBOXSHOP, we’re all about using fewer chemicals - especially when it comes to your cycle. By reducing the use of toxins when you switch to organic menstrual products, your body can offset some of the chemical residues conventional products contain. In addition to making the switch to organic tampons, you can try these remedies as well.
Take Chaste Tree Berry
Known as the natural pain reliever by cultures around the world, chaste tree berry (also called vitex) can offset even the most painful of cramps. These berries, usually taken in capsule form, help stimulate the production of the hormone progesterone which rises two weeks before your cycle begins. Helping to regulate these hormones, chaste tree berry can reduce period cramps and PMS symptoms. But, as with most natural supplements, they take time to build up in your system. So, start taking chaste tree berry for a few weeks and notice the difference in your next period.
Try a Castor Oil Pack
Castor oil packs involve rubbing a nickel-sized amount of castor oil on the abdomen and placing either a hot towel or heating pad over it. Helping the liver eliminate toxins that can adversely affect your hormones, castor oil packs can take a load off of your endocrine system as well. Sit with the castor oil pack for at least a half-hour a few days a week to feel its full effects.
Eat Dark Chocolate
Probably the best remedy we’ve ever tried - eat dark chocolate! Loaded with antioxidants and potassium, dark chocolate can help your hormones find balance while also satisfying your sweet tooth. Not one for dark chocolate? Try bananas, leafy greens or fennel seeds instead.
Try Seed Cycling
An ancient ayurvedic practice, seed cycling has helped women alleviate menstrual cramps for centuries. Eating different seeds like sesame, pumpkin, flax and sunflower at different times during your cycle assists in the balancing of your hormones throughout the month. If you want to try it, contact an ayurvedic practitioner and start eating those seeds!
Take an Epsom-Salt Bath
Magnesium, also known as the “calm-down” trace metal, helps the body relax and keeps each of the body’s systems regulated. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 75 percent of the population is magnesium deficient; it’s no wonder that so many women suffer from menstrual cramps with this type of deficiency. Epsom salt helps replenish your body’s stores of magnesium and extract excess toxins, while the heat from the bath helps soothe any existing cramping. Bonus points if you take a session in a float tank with thousands of pounds of Epsom salt! These float sessions can give you amazing relief from most aches and pains - including cramps.