Menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhoea, affects between 50% and 90% of women of childbearing age, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. This pain can range from annoying to incapacitating, and is sometimes poorly relieved by conventional drug treatments. Fortunately, there are research-backed natural solutions to alleviate these symptoms. This article explores proven remedies, such as certain medicinal plants, essential oils and alternative therapies, to relieve painful periods naturally, without undesirable side effects.
Which medicinal plants are effective in relieving period pain?
Numerous plants act effectively on the gynaecological sphere, offering natural solutions to relieve menstrual pain. Here are a few of the plants best known for their benefits.
What are the benefits of yarrow against menstrual pain?
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a plant known for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and slightly haemostatic action. It is particularly useful in cases of uterine cramps and heavy menstrual flow. Its effectiveness is attributed to its richness in flavonoids, salicylic acid and sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to have antispasmodic effects on smooth muscle (source: Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2013).
It is mainly used as an infusion, at a rate of one tablespoon of dried plant per 200 ml of boiling water, 2 to 3 times a day during the menstrual period. It can also be used in sitz baths to relax the lower abdomen.
A study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice (2019) showed a significant reduction in menstrual pain in women using yarrow extracts for three consecutive cycles.
How can sage be used to soothe menstrual cramps?
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is rich in phytoestrogens, making it a key plant in the management of female hormonal disorders. It is particularly useful in cases of menstrual pain associated with hormonal imbalance (oestrogen excess or deficiency).
As an infusion (1 teaspoon of dried leaves per 150 ml of hot water, twice a day), it helps to reduce uterine cramps, regulate heavy flow and relieve nervous tension associated with premenstrual syndrome.
Studies, notably published in the Journal of Medicinal Food (2010), have highlighted sage’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, linked to its flavonoids and phenolic acids. Warning: this plant is not recommended in cases of hormone-dependent cancers or a family history of breast cancer.
Which essential oils relieve menstrual pain naturally?
Aromatherapy is a natural herbal treatment method that uses essential oils to relieve various health problems, including menstrual pain. Certain essential oils have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and analgesic properties, and can help reduce the cramps and pain associated with painful periods.
Is tropical basil effective in soothing menstrual cramps?
Tropical basil essential oil (Ocimum basilicum CT linalol) is one of the most powerful oils for relieving acute menstrual cramps. Its main component, linalool, has musculotropic antispasmodic properties, meaning it acts directly on the smooth muscles of the uterus.
A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2015) confirmed the effectiveness of this oil in reducing pelvic pain during menstruation.
Use: 2 drops diluted in a teaspoon of vegetable oil, massaged into the lower abdomen, 2 to 3 times a day for the first few days of the cycle. Inhalation can also be used in addition to massage in the event of pain-related anxiety.
How do I use tarragon essential oil for menstrual pain?
Tarragon essential oil (Artemisia dracunculus) is reputed to calm nervous and digestive spasms, but it is also highly effective against menstrual pain. It acts via methylchavicol (estragole), which has powerful antispasmodic effects.
A study (University of Tehran, 2016) showed that a blend of essential oils containing tarragonsignificantly reducedthe pain associated with primary dysmenorrhoea.
Instructions for use: 2 drops in a hazelnut-sized amount of vegetable oil, to be massaged into the ovaries 2 to 3 times a day during pain. Orally, swallow 1 drop diluted in olive oil, 2 to 3 times a day (max 5 days). Always check contraindications, especially if you have epilepsy.
What are the hormonal effects of clary sage on painful periods?
Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)essential oil is a benchmark in hormonal aromatherapy. It contains linalyl acetate and sclareol, with properties similar to oestrogen. It helps balance the female cycle, reduces pain and soothes cyclical emotions.
It is often used in synergies for dysmenorrhoea. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2012) showed that a massage based on oils including clary sage significantly reduced menstrual pain from the first cycle onwards.
Application: 3 drops diluted in vegetable oil in a circular massage on the lower abdomen, morning and evening during menstruation.
Can True Lavender relieve both cramps and menstrual stress?
True lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)essential oil is relaxing, antispasmodic and slightly analgesic. Its benefits are twofold: it acts on physical pain while calming the central nervous system, which is often put to the test during periods.
It contains linalool and linalyl acetate, two compounds known to reduce spasms and anxiety. In 2020, a randomised clinical trial (Complementary Therapies in Medicine) showed that lavender-based aromatherapy significantly reduced menstrual pain in young women.
Use: massage (2-3 drops in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil on the lower abdomen) or air diffusion in case of nervousness.
What other natural remedies help relieve painful periods?
Many women suffer from painful periods, which can be very embarrassing and affect their quality of life. Although there are medicines available to relieve this pain, certain natural remedies can also be effective in alleviating the symptoms. Let’s take a look at some of these remedies.
Which buds should I use in gemmotherapy to help me cope better with my menstrual cycle?
Gemmotherapy, also known as bud phytotherapy, uses the embryonic tissues of plants. Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) is one of the most effective buds for helping women through their cycle.
This bud acts as a hormone regulator. It helps balance ovarian secretions and relieves menstrual pain thanks to its antispasmodic properties.
According to a publication in Phytotherapy Research (2021), raspberry bud extract improves the quality of life of women suffering from moderate to severe premenstrual syndrome.
The Feminagem complex, which combines raspberry, ai r elle and blackcurrant, works synergistically to reduce inflammation, regulate flow and soothe mood swings associated with menstruation.
Recommended course of treatment: 15 drops in a glass of water, morning and evening, during the second half of the cycle.
What homeopathic remedy should I take for menstrual pain?
Homeopathy can also help relieve menstrual pain, especially if it takes the form of intense abdominal cramps. The remedy most often recommended is Magnesia Phosphorica 6DH.
It acts on spasmodic pain in the lower abdomen, often improved by heat. It is useful for women who feel relief by lying down or applying a hot water bottle.
Directions for use: take 2 to 6 tablets in a little lukewarm water, in short doses, up to three times a day. This remedy has no side effects and can be used at the first sign of pain.
For a more targeted action, a naturopath or homeopath will be able to adapt the treatment to your particular condition.
