10 best herbal teas for periods

Herbal teas offer a natural and soothing relief for women during their menstrual periods.

Among the best herbal teas are chamomile, ginger, and peppermint teas. Chamomile tea boasts antispasmodic properties that relax the uterus, reducing cramps.

Ginger tea has anti-inflammatory qualities that alleviate pain and regulate period-related symptoms. Peppermint tea aids in digestion, eases bloating, and provides overall comfort.

Incorporating these herbal teas into a daily routine during menstruation ensures a more comfortable and peaceful experience.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile tea contains antispasmodic and relaxant properties due to its high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids.

These compounds bind to specific receptor sites in the smooth muscles of the uterus, reducing uterine contractions and spasms. As a result, chamomile tea alleviates menstrual cramps by relaxing the uterus and decreasing painful muscle contractions.

Moreover, chamomile tea possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which further aid in reducing menstrual pain and inflammation. Additionally, its mild sedative properties help combat stress, anxiety, and insomnia commonly experienced during periods.

Ultimately, drinking chamomile tea offers a natural, caffeine-free, and cost-effective method for managing menstrual symptoms.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with periods.

• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, chamomile flowers are used to make medicinal tea that helps soothe menstrual cramps and reduce inflammation during periods.
• Leaves: High in antioxidants, chamomile leaves contribute to the calming effect of medicinal tea, aiding in relaxation and stress relief during menstruation.
• Stems: Containing essential oils and antispasmodic properties, chamomile stems help alleviate muscle spasms and provide relief from menstrual pain in the medicinal tea.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with periods.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that has anti-spasmodic properties, helping to relax the smooth muscles of the uterus and reduce menstrual cramps.
• Chamazulene: A chemical compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps alleviate bloating and discomfort during menstruation.
• Bisabolol: A terpene alcohol with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, contributing to the relief of menstrual pain and inflammation.
• Matricin: A precursor to chamazulene, it exhibits antispasmodic properties that aid in reducing menstrual cramping and discomfort.
• Hydroxyzalate: A compound that contributes to the soothing and calming effects of chamomile tea, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety related to menstruation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for periods.

1. Boil 8 ounces of water to 212°F (100°C) for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a teapot or infuser.
3. Pour the hot water over the chamomile flowers and steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the used chamomile flowers.
5. Drink the chamomile tea while warm, up to three times a day as needed.

2. Ginger

Ginger tea provides relief during periods because it contains gingerol, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps reduce prostaglandin production, a substance causing menstrual cramps.

Ginger's warmth increases blood flow, alleviating congestion in the pelvic area and soothing discomfort. Furthermore, ginger tea's antispasmodic qualities ease abdominal spasms, while its soothing effect on the digestive system helps prevent nausea and vomiting often associated with menstruation.

Lastly, ginger tea offers a natural source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and magnesium, which contribute to overall well-being during this time.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with periods.

• Rhizomes: Rich in gingerols and shogaols, which help reduce menstrual pain and cramping.
• Leaves: Contain high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe menstrual discomfort.
• Flowers: Packed with essential oils and antioxidants, they help regulate hormonal imbalances during periods.
• Seeds: Loaded with calcium and magnesium, they alleviate menstrual cramps and stabilize mood swings.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with periods.

• Gingerols: Act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents, helping to alleviate prostaglandin-related menstrual cramps.
• Shogaols: Known to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins, reducing menstrual pain and heavy bleeding.
• Paradols: Possess potent antioxidant properties, protecting the body from oxidative stress during menstruation.
• Zerumbone: Demonstrates anti-spasmodic effects, providing relief from menstrual-related uterine spasms.
• Gingerdiols: Stimulate blood flow, promoting proper menstruation and alleviating stagnation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for periods.

1. Peel and slice 1 inch of fresh ginger, then bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Add ginger slices to boiling water, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Remove saucepan from heat, stir in 1 teaspoon of honey and the juice of half a lemon.
4. Strain tea into a cup, discarding ginger slices.
5. Sip tea while warm, enjoying its soothing and potential menstrual cramp-relieving effects.

3. Peppermint

Peppermint tea aids in menstrual discomfort due to its natural antispasmodic properties, which relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and uterus.

This herbal tea contains menthol, a compound that possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the uterus during menstruation. Peppermint tea's soothing warmth enhances blood circulation, thereby promoting the release of cramp-relieving prostaglandins. Moreover, its calming nature can reduce stress and anxiety levels, common symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Therefore, regularly consuming peppermint tea during menstruation offers a natural, effective way to manage period-related discomforts.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with periods.

• Leaves: Contain menthol and antispasmodic properties, helping to relax the smooth muscles in the uterus and relieve menstrual cramps.
• Flowers: Rich in essential oils and flavonoids, offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with periods.
• Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid, which has antioxidant and analgesic properties, making it useful for reducing discomfort during menstruation.
• Seeds: High in essential fatty acids and vitamins, providing essential nutrients for hormonal balance and overall reproductive health.
• Buds: Packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients, aiding in soothing menstrual-related symptoms, such as bloating, irritability, and muscle aches.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with periods.

• Menthol: Acts as a natural pain reliever, helping to soothe menstrual cramps.
• Rosmarinic acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that reduce prostaglandin production, alleviating menstrual pain.
• Flavonoids: Work as antioxidants, providing relief from menstrual-related issues and improving overall hormonal balance.
• Tannins: Contribute to astringent effects, helping reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Limonene: Known to have antispasmodic properties, providing comfort from menstrual-related muscle spasms.
• Phenolic acids: Exhibit analgesic properties that assist in managing period pain.
• Volatile oils: Contribute to the regulation of hormones, reducing symptoms related to PMS.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for periods.

1. Boil 8 ounces of water to a rolling boil, which takes approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Crush 1 tablespoon of dried peppermint leaves and place them in a tea infuser.
3. Pour the boiling water over the crushed peppermint leaves and steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the tea infuser to stop the steeping process and prevent the tea from becoming bitter.
5. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired, and enjoy the soothing effects of peppermint tea.

4. Raspberry

Raspberry tea benefits menstrual cycles due to its richness in fragarine, a compound that tones and strengthens the uterus, leading to efficient contractions during menstruation.

This tea's tannins act as astringents, reducing heavy blood flow and easing cramps. Moreover, its high vitamin and mineral content, including iron, magnesium, and calcium, replenish essential nutrients lost during the menstrual cycle. Raspberry tea's anti-inflammatory properties, derived from antioxidants and essential fatty acids, alleviate prostaglandin-induced menstrual pain.

Finally, raspberry tea promotes hormonal balance by regulating the production of estrogen and progesterone, consequently supporting a regular menstrual cycle.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in raspberry tea that help with periods.

• Leaves: Contain high levels of fragarine, a compound known to help reduce menstrual cramp pain.
• Flowers: Rich in anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help soothe menstrual discomfort.
• Roots: Used to regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms associated with PMS.
• Bark: Contains tannins that help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and provide astringent properties.
• Seeds: High in essential fatty acids, helping to balance hormones and reduce menstrual-related mood swings.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in raspberry tea that aid with periods.

• Fragarine: A compound that helps to tone the uterine muscles, making menstrual periods more regular.
• Ellagic acid: Acts as an anti-inflammatory, reducing menstrual cramps and pain.
• Tannins: Possess astringent properties, helping to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Flavonoids: Contribute to the relief of menstrual discomfort by virtue of their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Vitamin C: Promotes iron absorption, which can be helpful during menstruation as iron loss is common.
• Anthocyanins: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, aiding in the easing of menstrual pain.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic raspberry tea for periods.

1. Measure 1 teaspoon of dried raspberry leaf into a tea infuser.
2. Boil 8 ounces of water and pour over the infuser in a cup.
3. Steep the raspberry leaf for 5-10 minutes, then remove the infuser.
4. Add honey to taste and stir well.
5. Sip the tea while it's still warm, preferably 3 times a day.

5. Dandelion

Dandelion tea possesses natural diuretic properties, promoting fluid balance and reducing bloating during menstruation.

As a rich source of vitamins and minerals, it replenishes essential nutrients, aiding in overall hormonal balance. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory effects alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort. By stimulating liver function, dandelion tea assists in the elimination of toxins, which can help regulate periods and ease PMS symptoms.

Finally, its soothing nature helps reduce stress and anxiety associated with menstruation, promoting overall well-being.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in dandelion tea that help with periods.

• Leaves: Rich in vitamins and minerals, the leaves support hormonal balance and reduce menstrual cramps.
• Flowers: Contain bioactive compounds that alleviate PMS symptoms, including bloating, mood swings, and breast tenderness.
• Roots: Packed with medicinal properties, the roots regulate menstrual cycles and soothe menstrual discomfort due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
• Buds: High in antioxidants, the buds promote overall reproductive health, easing menstrual pain and irritability.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion tea that aid with periods.

• Taraxasterol: Reduces inflammation and alleviates menstrual cramps.
• Luteolin: Regulates hormonal imbalances, easing menstrual discomfort.
• Chicoric acid: Possesses antispasmodic properties, soothing menstrual pain.
• Inulin: Acts as a prebiotic, supporting gut health during menstruation.
• Vitamin A: Supports hormonal balance and endometrial health.
• Vitamin C: Enhances iron absorption, critical during menstruation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion tea for periods.

1. Gather 2-3 tablespoons of fresh dandelion flowers or 1-2 teaspoons of dried dandelion flowers.
2. Rinse the flowers thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
3. Steep the flowers in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the tea's beneficial properties.
4. Strain the tea to remove the flowers, and let it cool to a drinkable temperature.
5. Consume the tea 1-2 times a day during your period for relief of symptoms.

6. Nettle

Nettle tea is known to support menstrual health due to its high nutrient content.

This tea contains essential minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, which are beneficial during menstruation. Nettle tea also provides vitamins, like A, C, and K, that replenish the body and ease menstrual discomfort. Furthermore, it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce menstrual cramps and regulate hormonal imbalances.

Lastly, its diuretic nature helps eliminate bloating and promotes overall kidney health during this time.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in nettle tea that help with periods.

• Leaves: Contain high levels of vitamins and minerals, making them a popular choice for regulating menstrual cycles.
• Flowers: Contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort.
• Seeds: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, seeds can help balance hormones and reduce symptoms of PMS.
• Stems: Can help soothe and relax the muscles, providing relief from menstrual cramps.
• Rhyzomes: Contain powerful antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for reducing menstrual pain.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in nettle tea that aid with periods.

• Iron: Helps replenish iron lost during menstruation and prevents anemia.
• Calcium: Alleviates menstrual cramps and mood swings.
• Magnesium: Reduces menstrual pain and bloating.
• Vitamin K: Promotes blood clotting and eases heavy periods.
• B-complex vitamins: Support hormonal balance and reduce PMS symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic nettle tea for periods.

1. Gather 2 cups of fresh nettle leaves, rinse them thoroughly, and place them in a pot.
2. Pour 4 cups of water into the pot, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the leaves, discarding them safely.
4. Let the tea cool down to a drinkable temperature.
5. Consume 1-2 cups of nettle tea daily during your period, sweetening it with honey if desired.

7. Milk Thistle

Milk thistle tea contains silymarin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties help reduce inflammation in the body, including the reproductive system, which can alleviate menstrual cramps. Silymarin also aids in hormonal balance by promoting the production of estrogen and progesterone, two hormones essential for a healthy menstrual cycle. Furthermore, milk thistle tea enhances liver function, which is crucial for eliminating toxins and excess hormones from the body.

As a result, milk thistle tea supports a smoother menstrual cycle with less discomfort.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in milk thistle tea that help with periods.

• Seeds: Contain silymarin, a flavonoid with demonstrated ability to support liver function and hormonal balance during menstruation.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, leaves of milk thistle have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing menstrual cramps and bloating.
• Flowers: Known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, flowers aid in easing menstrual discomfort and regulating periods.
• Rhyzomes: Possess phytoestrogenic properties that can help balance hormonal levels, reducing symptoms associated with PMS and menstruation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in milk thistle tea that aid with periods.

• Silibinin: A flavonolignan that helps reduce menstrual cramp pain by inhibiting spasms in the uterus.
• Silybin: A flavonoid that aids in alleviating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms by regulating hormonal imbalances.
• Silymarin: A flavonoid complex that possesses anti-inflammatory properties, reducing menstrual-related inflammation and discomfort.
• Isosilybin: A flavonoid that supports liver function during menstruation, promoting estrogen metabolism and reducing PMS symptoms.
• Taxifolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties that help protect the body from oxidative stress during menstruation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milk thistle tea for periods.

1. Measure - Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried milk thistle flowers or leaves.
2. Steep - Allow the tea to steep for 10-15 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.
3. Strain - Strain the liquid to remove the spent milk thistle and discard the solids.
4. Sweeten - Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired, for a more pleasant flavor.
5. Serve - Enjoy your milk thistle tea while it's still warm, up to three times a day during your period.

8. Fennel

Fennel tea aids menstrual discomfort due to its antispasmodic properties, which relax the smooth muscles of the uterus and reduce painful cramps.

This soothing effect extends to the digestive system, alleviating symptoms like bloating, indigestion, and constipation associated with periods. Furthermore, fennel's emmenagogue properties promote healthy menstrual flow by stimulating blood circulation in the pelvic area. As a natural phytoestrogen source, fennel tea helps balance hormonal levels, mitigating mood swings, breast tenderness, and other premenstrual symptoms.

Lastly, fennel's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, such as anethole, support overall reproductive health and well-being during menstruation.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in fennel tea that help with periods.

• Seeds: Contain high levels of antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them helpful in reducing menstrual cramps and discomfort.
• Leaves: Rich in vitamins and minerals, the leaves are known to help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms of PMS.
• Stems: Contain volatile oils that act as a natural uterine tonic and relaxant, aiding in the relief of menstrual pain.
• Flowers: High in flavonoids that possess analgesic and anti-spasmodic properties, the flowers can help ease menstrual cramps and spasms.
• Rhizomes: Packed with essential oils and phenolic compounds, rhizomes are effective in reducing menstrual bleeding and easing menstrual pain.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel tea that aid with periods.

• Anethole: Acts as a phytoestrogen, helping to balance hormones during menstruation.
• Fenchone: Possesses anti-spasmodic properties, alleviating menstrual cramps.
• Limonene: Exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, reducing inflammation related to periods.
• Estragole: Regulates menstrual cycles by affecting levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
• Alpha-Pinene: Known for its calming and relaxing effects, which can help reduce anxiety and discomfort during menstruation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel tea for periods.

1. Chop 1 tablespoon of fresh fennel seeds or 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds powder.
2. Place the chopped fennel in a pot and add 1 cup of water.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the fennel solids.
5. Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to 3 times a day during your period.

9. Valerian

Valerian tea aids in alleviating menstrual discomfort due to its natural sedative properties, which promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

This herbal tea contains antispasmodic compounds that help soothe muscle cramps and spasms in the uterus, thereby lessening menstrual pain. Valerian tea also has the ability to regulate hormonal fluctuations, promoting a balanced menstrual cycle. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties assist in minimizing prostaglandin production, which is associated with menstrual symptoms such as bloating and pain.

Lastly, valerian tea's calming effects can improve sleep quality, allowing individuals to better manage the physical and emotional challenges experienced during their periods.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in valerian tea that help with periods.

• Roots: Contain active compounds such as valerenic acid, which helps regulate hormonal imbalances during menstruation.
• Rhizomes: Rich in antioxidants, providing relief from menstrual cramps and reducing inflammation.
• Leaves: High in vitamins and minerals, aiding in muscle relaxation and promoting better sleep during periods.
• Flowers: Contain essential oils that help alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, stress, and depression related to menstrual cycles.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian tea that aid with periods.

• Valerenic acid: Interacts with GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, helping to alleviate menstrual-related tension and discomfort.
• Valepotriates: Exhibit anti-spasmodic properties, helping to relieve muscle cramps during menstruation.
• Flavanones: Possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation associated with menstrual pain.
• Essential oil: Contains sedative and calming properties, aiding in better sleep and stress reduction during menstruation.
• Hydroxycinnamic acids: Exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to manage menstrual pain and inflammation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian tea for periods.

1. Measure - Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of dried valerian root.
2. Steep - Allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain - Strain the tea to remove the valerian root.
4. Sweeten - Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
5. Serve - Drink the tea while it is still warm, up to three times per day.

10. Yellow Dock

Yellow dock tea provides relief during periods due to its medicinal properties.

This herbal tea contains high levels of iron, calcium, and other minerals that replenish the body's nutrients lost during menstruation. The tea's ability to stimulate bile production supports liver function, promoting healthy hormone balance. Yellow dock's astringent qualities alleviate heavy bleeding and cramping by contracting tissues in the uterus.

Regular consumption of yellow dock tea during periods ensures a more comfortable and balanced menstrual cycle.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in yellow dock tea that help with periods.

• Roots: Rich in iron, roots of yellow dock tea plant alleviate heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Leaves: High in vitamins and minerals, leaves reduce menstrual cramping and bloating.
• Rhizomes: Contain laxative properties, rhizomes help regulate hormonal imbalances during periods.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in yellow dock tea that aid with periods.

• Iron: Supports healthy menstrual cycle by helping to replenish iron lost during menstruation.
• Tannins: Contribute to balancing menstrual flow due to their astringent properties.
• Vitamin C: Promotes iron absorption and supports overall menstrual health.
• Magnesium: Helps reduce menstrual cramps and regulate menstrual cycles.
• Potassium: Assists in maintaining electrolyte balance and hormonal regulation during menstruation.
• Calcium: Helps alleviate menstrual cramps and regulate muscle contractions.
• Resveratrol: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce menstrual pain and discomfort.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yellow dock tea for periods.

1. Gather 2 teaspoons of dried yellow dock root.
2. Boil 8 ounces of water and add the yellow dock root.
3. Simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes.
4. Strain the tea to remove solid particles.
5. Drink the tea, preferably between meals, up to three times a day for period pain relief.