Under the collective term menstrual cramps, various physical, psychological and psycho-somatic complaints are summarized, which can occur in women of childbearing age before and during the period. The most common are PMS, premenstrual syndrome, and dysmenorrhea, the so-called period pain. For the treatment of these and other complaints there are some methods and medicines both in traditional medicine and in alternative medicine and in the field of home remedies.
What helps against menstrual cramps?
Lemon balm can be used as a tea to soothe the gastrointestinal tract, abdomen and mind. In addition, it can be used for warming compresses. First, it is important for the sufferer to understand what menstrual cramps are and what triggers them. Therefore, especially girls who are having their first period or women who are inadequately educated not because of age, but because of other circumstances, should first be educated about the processes of their body and the associated symptoms during the period. For example, period pain occurs because of prostaglandins (series-2). These are messenger substances produced by the body itself, which cause contractions in the uterine muscles as soon as the uterine lining is shed. This contraction of the muscles weakens the blood supply to the uterus, which is the reason for the pain. There are several pain relievers for this period pain. One is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are primarily used against rheumatism. On the other hand, contraceptives (birth control pills), which contain the hormone chloromadionacetate (CMA). This is believed to inhibit the formation of series 2 prostaglandins. The “pill” also inhibits the hormonal imbalance caused by menstruation. Over-the-counter medications containing analgesics such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also have a positive effect on period pain. If they do not work, a higher dosage or a switch to another medication should be discussed with the doctor.
Quick help
Against the collected symptoms of the so-called PMS there are also some drugs of conventional medicine, however, they can also be reduced by a conscious lifestyle and an attention to the signs of PMS and the effective counteraction. Physical complaints that are summarized under the term PMS are, for example, water retention in the tissues (edema), fatigue and exhaustion, circulatory problems, headaches and backaches, migraines, bloating, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. For each of these individual complaints, there are both conventional medical remedies and home remedies. For example, edema, fatigue and bloating can be prevented with exercise and by avoiding high-salt meals, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine. Symptoms affecting the gastrointestinal tract can be relieved by applications of caraway oil or by herbal and especially chamomile tea. Severe pain, which cannot be prevented by preventive measures, or migraine can usually only be treated medically. The psychological aspects of PMS can be counteracted by relaxing measures, such as walking, cycling, jogging or swimming. If possible, leisure activities should take place in the fresh air and in nature. Dark rooms should be avoided. Against the totality of PMS can also help relaxing measures such as baths, massages, autogenic training and yoga – in addition, a balanced diet and a healthy sleep rhythm.
Alternative remedies
Accordingly, the most successful home remedies for menstrual cramps are heat, relaxation, distraction and exercise. To prepare a chamomile tea or infusion, a walk to collect chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla) can be used in this context. These can be found along roadsides, in grain fields and in fields. If you have your own garden or an herb flower box inside the house, you can also grow lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). Chamomile can be collected from May to August, while lemon balm leaves are collected at the beginning of flowering in June and early July. Both plants can be used as teas to soothe the gastrointestinal tract, abdomen and mind. In addition, they can be used for warming compresses. Homeopathic remedies for menstrual cramps are also available.For psychological symptoms, such as restlessness, irritability and dejection, Colocynthis helps. Pain sensitivity and irritability are treated with Chamomilla, i.e. chamomile. For circulatory problems and dizziness, as well as headache and abdominal pain, China officinalis can provide relief.
