Menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, affects a large proportion of women during their cycle. These cramps can be mild or very intense, impacting daily life and well-being. Teas and infusions are invaluable allies in providing natural relief. Certain plants have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and soothing properties that can help reduce cramps and promote relaxation.
In this article, discover the best teas and infusions to drink during your period to relieve menstrual pain.
1. Ginger: a natural anti-inflammatory
Ginger is one of the most effective herbs for relieving menstrual pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce uterine contractions responsible for cramps.
Benefits :
- Reduces menstrual cramps
- Reduces period-related nausea
- Strengthens the immune system
How to eat it :
- Make a fresh ginger infusion by boiling a few slices of ginger in hot water for 10 minutes.
- Add a little honey or lemon to sweeten the taste.
2. Chamomile: soothing and relaxing
Chamomile is renowned for its relaxing properties. It helps relax muscles and reduce uterine spasms responsible for menstrual pain.
Benefits :
- Reduces cramps
- Soothes stress and anxiety
- Improves sleep
How to eat it :
- Infuse a spoonful of dried chamomile flowers in a cup of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Drink 2 to 3 cups a day during your period.
3. Peppermint: antispasmodic and refreshing
Peppermint has antispasmodic properties that can help reduce uterine muscle contractions and relieve abdominal pain.
Benefits :
- Soothes cramps
- Reduces bloating
- Refreshes and revitalizes
How to eat it :
- Infuse a few fresh peppermint leaves or a spoonful of dried peppermint in a cup of hot water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Drink after meals to avoid bloating.
4. Fennel: an ally against cramps
Fennel is a plant renowned for its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects. It helps relax uterine muscles and reduce menstrual pain.
Benefits :
- Reduces menstrual cramps
- Reduces bloating
- Promotes digestion
How to eat it :
- Boil 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds in water for 10 minutes.
- Strain and drink 2 to 3 cups a day.
🌱 5. Raspberry leaf: tonic for the uterus
Raspberry leaf has been used for centuries to relieve menstrual pain. It acts as a tonic for the uterus, helping to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce cramping.
Benefits :
- Tones uterine muscles
- Reduces menstrual pain
- Regulates the menstrual cycle
How to eat it :
- Infuse 1 spoonful of dried raspberry leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
- Drink 1 to 2 cups a day before and during your period.
6. Turmeric: a powerful anti-inflammatory
Turmeric is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory that can help reduce inflammation and menstrual cramps. It is particularly effective when taken with black pepper, which enhances absorption.
Benefits :
- Reduces inflammation
- Soothes menstrual pain
- Boosts the immune system
How to eat it :
- Prepare a turmeric infusion by mixing 1 spoonful of turmeric powder in hot water.
- Add a pinch of black pepper and a little honey to sweeten the taste.
🌿 7. Lavender: to relieve stress and pain
Lavender is known for its soothing, relaxing properties. It helps reduce stress and relieve muscular pain, including menstrual cramps.
Benefits :
- Reduces menstrual pain
- Soothes anxiety
- Promotes restful sleep
How to eat it :
- Infuse a few dried lavender flowers in a cup of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Drink this infusion in the evening to promote relaxation.
8. Cinnamon: anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic
Cinnamon is an excellent natural anti-inflammatory that can help reduce cramps and menstrual pain. It also has antispasmodic properties that help relax muscles.
Benefits :
- Reduces cramps
- Stimulates blood circulation
- Soothes muscular pain
How to eat it :
- Add 1 spoonful of powdered cinnamon or a cinnamon stick to a cup of hot water.
- Drink 2 to 3 cups a day during your period.
🫖 Tips for preparing your infusions
- Use organic plants to avoid pesticides and other harmful substances.
- Infuse plants in hot water, but avoid boiling water, which may destroy some of their active properties.
- Add honey or lemon to enhance the taste of certain infusions.
Summary
Teas and infusions are natural allies for soothing menstrual pain. Each herb has specific properties that can help reduce cramps, improve digestion and relieve stress:
| Plant | Main properties | When to eat it? |
|---|---|---|
| Ginger | Anti-inflammatory | During menstruation |
| Chamomile | Relaxing, antispasmodic | Before bedtime |
| Peppermint | Refreshing, antispasmodic | After meals |
| Fennel | Antispasmodic, digestive | During menstruation |
| Raspberry leaf | Uterine tonic | Before and during menstruation |
| Turmeric | Anti-inflammatory | During menstruation |
| Lavender | Soothing, relaxing | Evening relaxation |
| Cinnamon | Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic | During menstruation |
References
- Russo, E. B. (2011). Herbal remedies for menstrual pain relief. Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management. Available here
- Blakey, H., et al. (2010). Herbal infusions for dysmenorrhea: A systematic review. Journal of Herbal Medicine. Available here
- Proctor, M., et al. (2009). Heat and herbal therapy for menstrual pain relief. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Available here
- Harel, Z. (2006). Dysmenorrhea in adolescents and young adults: Etiology and management. Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. Available here
Sleep and menstruation: how can you sleep well during your period?
Which well-being rituals to adopt according to your cycle?