Period cramps are known as
dysmenorrhea in clinical terms. It occurs due to the contractions of the uterus when it contracts strongly during the time of the month, it affects the nearby blood vessels. This briefly stops the oxygen supply to the uterus and this is when the cramps occur. The prostaglandin hormone is one of the main hormone involved in period cramps.
Here are a few home remedies to relieve cramps and some tips on how to prevent it from happening.
1. Hot or Cold treatment
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For some people, hot treatment works and for some people cold treatment works, so try both of these methods and see which one helps you. Just use a
heat bag and place it on the area where you have pain, it will lead to blood circulation and provide relief.
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For cold treatment, use an
ice pack or a cloth dipped in cold water and place it on the area where it hurts. Cold treatment helps in narrowing the blood vessels which reduces pain.
2. Tea
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Take a break from coffee and milk tea during this time and try these teas for relief. Drink
green tea which is rich in anti-oxidants and will cleanse your body from inside, or you can drink
chamomile tea which has anti- inflammatory properties. These
anti- inflammatory properties help in reducing the prostaglandin production, hence reducing the cramps. Ginger is also known to help reduce cramps, so you can drink
ginger tea or just use ginger in your dishes.
3. Papaya
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Papaya has many
essential nutrients such as
calcium, iron, vitamin A and C. These are nutrients which are known to reduce pain and cramps. Eat a papaya or drink its juice before the time of the month to reduce the intensity of the pain.
4. Parsley
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| photo courtesy: tamilan |
It is an ancient remedy for period pains and problems. Parsley has
anti-inflammatory properties which helps in reducing the cramps. A compound called
apiol is the main reason for the reduction of the pain. You can add parsley to your dishes or make a
smoothie and add parsley in it.
5. Iron rich food
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Iron is lost from your body due to blood loss, so consume food which is rich in iron. Iron helps in the production of
haemoglobin which is important because, when there is a reduction of the haemoglobin level, your body starts to lose energy and feel tired. The foods which are rich in iron are
spinach, soya beans, dried apricots, dates, pumpkin seeds and bananas.
In addition to these remedies,
avoid salty and fried food, coffee and carbonated drinks to prevent bloating. Have a hot shower, drink loads of water, and use lavender or castor oil to massage any area where you have pain. It’s important that you
maintain good posture,
sleep well and remain stress-free and calm in order to prevent triggering any pain. If you have unbearable pain, then immediately go to a doctor.
Written by
Sucharitha V
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