Natural Remedies for Menstruation Cramps

Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is quite common, especially in younger woman. The pain occurs the day before or during the menstrual period. The pain can affect the lower abdominal region, the lower back and even the the thighs. The pain can be so severe it can result in diarrhea or vomiting. 

Natural remedies to relieve menstrual cramps:
- Using warm castor oil pack on the lower abdomen or lower back during the period.
- Acupuncture is great to prevent cramps and reduce inflammation.
- Exercise is often recommended for better blood circulation.
- Yoga to relax muscles and open up the hips.                
- Supplements: magnesium can also help in relaxing muscles.
- Diet. 
Looking at the chart below, Chinese medicine identifies 2 dysmenorrhea types (excess and deficiency), depending on the symptoms the woman is experiencing. If you easily feel cold during your menses, then eat cooked food (deficiency type), if you're in pain, but not cold (excess type), then green smoothies maybe your best bet. Also, food high in Essential fatty acid, reduce inflammation, so adding fatty fish such as wild salmon, may also help.

If you have any questions regarding painful period cramps, and or acupuncture, feel free to contact me.

Clara Cohen
Registered Acupuncturist 
Healing Cedar Wellness