If you are like most women, you probably have experienced menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) at one point or another in your life. There are many women who suffer from painful muscle cramps during that time of the month. These cramps are usually debilitating for some women while others only experience mild discomforts throughout the period.
Dysmenorrhea is mainly caused by the contraction of the uterus where there is congestion of blood flow. During every menstrual period, the uterus contracts to expel the lining. Uterine contractions cause most of the pain felt during the menstrual cramps as contradictions inhibit the flow of blood to the lining of the uterus. Strong uterine contractions can press against close blood vessels, reducing oxygen supply to the uterus muscle tissues. Pain usually results when some parts of the muscles lose oxygen supply briefly.
Fortunately, there are some natural ways to relieve these monthly pains. Here are 5 ways to beating your menstrual cramps and get through a painless period in your life.
Eucalyptus has been used for a long period because of its medicinal properties. It is derived from eucalyptus tree (also known as eucalyptus globules) leaves by steam distillation process. The oil has antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties that make it useful in managing headaches, breathlessness, cough and fever. It acts a decongestant and reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Eucalyptus oil is an excellent way to reduce the pain experienced from menstrual cramps with Eucalyptus Campanulata as recommended type because it works best out of the other Eucalyptus oils.
When in pain, the last thing you want is to strain yourself with vigorous exercises. Intense and extended exercises can actually worsen the problem when experiencing menstrual pain.
Choose gentle, low impact aerobic exercises like swimming or walking at a low pace. Exercises that rock your pelvis, such as pelvic tilts can be beneficial as they increase the flow of blood, which makes the cramps go away. Focus more on relaxing exercises and avoid yoga inversions during this period. Ideally, engage in aerobic exercises for at least 30 minutes every day.
One of the best ways to get over menstrual pain is to eat more healthy nutritional foods and fruits. There are many foods that help bring balance to your body. Some of the foods to consider, along with other diets include:
Maca is a simply a cruciferous root found mainly in Peru and has been cultivated for over 2,000 years. It has for a long time, been used a traditional food and is believed to provide strength and endurance as well as enhancing fertility and supporting menstruation.
Fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids that not only help heart health, but also acts as an anti-inflammatory to help with cramps and bloating. Cod liver oil contains Omega-3 and other vital vitamins and minerals; it is a popular choice within fatty fishes.
These minerals are known to reduce muscle soreness. Research suggests that 1200 mg of calcium everyday can lessen menstrual symptoms. Raw milk is a great source of minerals.
Drinking a lot of water may relief menstrual pain. In fact, research shows that drinking water is one of the easiest methods to avoid menstrual cramps. If you are experiencing unbearable pain during your menstrual period, water helps to reduce bloating pain during menstruation. Warm water is the best for cramps, as it will accelerate blood circulation in addition to helping you relax cramped muscles. You can also eat water-based foods to increase your hydration levels, such as lettuce, watermelon, celery and cucumbers.
Cinnamon has always been used to alleviate actual congestion of colds and allergies and is now used to aid with digestion. It has also been researched for its menstrual cramps soothing properties. Additionally, this spice is rich in dietary fibre, calcium along with iron and manganese, which also help relieve signs and symptoms of menstrual cramps.