By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Stomach Cramps
Herbal creams for stomach cramps are topical ointments infused with natural herbs that provide relief from abdominal pain and discomfort.
They help by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the stomach. Examples include creams containing ginger, peppermint, and chamomile, which have been shown to alleviate stomach cramps and improve digestion.
For instance, a pregnant woman experiencing stomach cramps can benefit from using a ginger-infused cream to reduce her discomfort and improve her overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for stomach cramps, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Matricaria chamomilla
- 2. Melissa officinalis
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Zingiber officinale
- 5. Centaurea cyanus
- 6. Calendula officinalis
- 7. Foeniculum vulgare
- 8. Mentha x piperita
- 9. Curcuma longa
- 10. Sambucus nigra
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for stomach cramps?
- What ailments similar to stomach cramps are treated with herbal creams?
1. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping. The cream's topical application allows the active ingredients to penetrate deep into the skin, providing fast relief from stomach cramps.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to ease digestive discomfort, making it a popular choice for those seeking a gentle and effective solution.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that helps with stomach cramps by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain and inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that helps with stomach cramps by inhibiting the release of pain-causing neurotransmitters and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Alpha-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene that helps with stomach cramps by exhibiting analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, providing relief from pain and discomfort in the digestive system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Flowers: Rich in soothing and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as apigenin and luteolin, which help to calm digestive issues and reduce pain.
- Seeds: Contain apigenin and other flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in relieving stomach cramps and other digestive discomforts.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and other compounds that have a soothing effect on the digestive system, helping to alleviate stomach cramps and other gastrointestinal issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 1 pound of matricaria chamomilla flowers in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Steep 1 cup of dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids immediately.
- Whip 1 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of shea butter into the infused oil until a smooth consistency is achieved.
2. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with stomach cramps because of its calming and soothing properties.
The active compounds in Melissa officinalis, such as rosmarinic acid and melissic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which help to relax the smooth muscle in the digestive tract and reduce spasms. This can provide quick relief from stomach cramps, bloating, and discomfort, promoting overall digestive health and well-being.
Its natural anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce inflammation and ease digestive discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and pain associated with stomach cramps.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-spasmodic effects, which can help relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate cramping.
- Melissic acid: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, which can help soothe and calm the digestive tract, reducing cramping and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: They are primarily used due to their high content of essential oils, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help alleviate stomach cramps.
- Stems: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their medicinal properties, making them useful in reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with stomach cramps.
- Roots: Although not the most commonly used part, roots of Melissa officinalis are also employed in herbal remedies due to their ability to calm digestive issues and reduce spasms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 1 cup of melissa flowers on a sunny morning after the dew has dried completely.
- Dry the harvested melissa flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Steep 1 tablespoon of dried melissa flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the melissa infusion with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil.
- Stir and heat the mixture until the beeswax is fully incorporated and the cream is smooth and creamy.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The root of the licorice plant contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has been shown to soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation. This can provide relief from stomach cramps, bloating, and discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive issues.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation of the stomach muscles, licorice creams can help to alleviate stomach cramps and promote overall digestive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Licorice glycosides: These glycosides act as potent anti-inflammatory agents, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with stomach cramps.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antioxidant properties, which help to protect the stomach lining from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, thereby providing relief from stomach cramps.
- Saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the smooth muscles in the stomach and alleviate cramping, making them an effective remedy for stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for stomach cramps due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for stomach cramps due to their ability to soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation.
- Seeds: The seeds of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams for stomach cramps due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids that help to reduce spasms and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 100 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and grind them into fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powder with 10 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of sweet almond oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax melts completely.
- Remove the mixture from heat and add 10 grams of distilled water and 5 grams of emulsifying wax, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a clean container and allow it to cool and thicken for at least 30 minutes.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce pain and inflammation in the digestive tract. This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate nausea and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps, motion sickness, and digestive issues.
The topical application of ginger creams allows for rapid absorption, providing quick relief from stomach cramps and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpenoid compounds have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the stomach muscles, providing relief from cramps.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are also sesquiterpenoid compounds found in ginger, and they have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to soothe the stomach and alleviate cramps.
- Zingerone: This phenolic compound is responsible for the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ginger, helping to reduce inflammation and pain in the stomach, thereby alleviating stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part for making creams to alleviate stomach cramps due to its high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: Also used for stomach cramp relief, ginger buds contain similar compounds to the rhyzomes, making them a viable alternative for topical application.
- Roots: Although less commonly used than the rhyzomes, ginger roots can be used to make creams for stomach cramps due to their stored gingerols and shogaols, which are released when the root is harvested or processed.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for stomach cramps.
- Combine 250 grams of shea butter and 150 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture for 10 minutes at 60 degrees celsius or 140 degrees fahrenheit.
- Add 50 grams of beeswax and stir until fully incorporated into the mixture.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Add 10 grams of zingiber officinale essential oil and blend until well combined.
5. Centaurea cyanus
Centaurea cyanus, also known as cornflower, creams helps with stomach cramps because it contains anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that soothe irritated muscles and calm the digestive system.
The cream's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to reduce inflammation and relax the smooth muscles in the stomach, providing quick relief from cramps and discomfort.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for individuals seeking a non-pharmacological approach to managing stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centaurea cyanus creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Centaurea cyanus have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and soothe stomach cramps.
- Chlorogenic acid: Chlorogenic acid, a polyphenol compound found in Centaurea cyanus, has been shown to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate stomach cramps.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides, such as aucubin and eremophyllin, present in Centaurea cyanus, have been found to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce muscle spasms and ease stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cornflower used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: Used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate stomach cramps.
- Seeds: Utilized for their spasmolytic effects, which help to relax the muscles in the stomach and alleviate cramps.
- Flowers: Employed for their ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the stomach, making them a common remedy for stomach cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cornflower for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 100 grams of dried flowers of centaurea cyanus by cutting them at dawn when dew is still present.
- Infuse 50 grams of the harvested flowers in 500 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to separate solids from liquid.
- Mix 10 grams of beeswax with the infused oil in a double boiler and heat until the wax melts.
- Pour the melted wax mixture into a tin mold and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.
6. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and saponins, have been shown to calm digestive tract spasms and reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines. This helps to alleviate cramp pain and discomfort, promoting a sense of relief and relaxation.
The cream's natural anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe and protect the digestive tract, promoting healthy digestion and reducing the frequency of stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Carotenoids: These pigments have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and ease stomach cramps.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help alleviate stomach cramps and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of pathogens in the digestive tract.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help soothe stomach cramps and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: They are used for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help relieve stomach cramps and discomfort.
- Seeds: They are used due to their carminative properties, which help alleviate digestive issues, including stomach cramps, by reducing gas and promoting digestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for stomach cramps.
- Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning when petals are fully open and dry them completely in a warm place for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried calendula officinalis flowers with 2 parts carrier oil such as jojoba oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks shaking the jar every day to infuse the oil.
- Strain the oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bowl and discard the solids.
- Mix the infused oil with beeswax and vitamin e oil in a double boiler over low heat until the beeswax melts and the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
7. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, creams helps with stomach cramps because they contain compounds like anethole and fenchone, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
These properties help to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramps. Additionally, fennel creams may also help to stimulate digestive enzymes and improve gut motility, further easing stomach discomfort.
The soothing effects of fennel creams can provide quick relief from stomach cramps and associated symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Anethole: Anethole, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce cramping sensations.
- Fenchone: Fenchone, a monoterpenic ketone, exhibits antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to the relief of stomach cramps by calming muscle spasms and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Trans-anethol: Trans-anethol, a phenolic compound, has a mild antispasmodic effect, helping to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Seeds: They are used due to their carminative properties, which help to ease digestive discomfort and relieve stomach cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to soothe stomach cramps and reduce inflammation.
- Fruits: The fruits (or more specifically, the essential oil extracted from them) are used for their digestive benefits, including the ability to reduce gas and alleviate stomach cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for stomach cramps.
- Harvest foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers at dawn when the plant is at its highest essential oil content.
- Dry the harvested foeniculum vulgare plant material in a low temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 30 minutes.
- Combine 100 grams of dried foeniculum vulgare plant material with 1000 milliliters of carrier oil in a double boiler.
- Steep the mixture at 60 degrees celsius for 4 hours to infuse the carrier oil with the herbal extract.
- Strain and filter the infused oil mixture through cheesecloth and a coffee filter to obtain a clear herbal cream base.
8. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with stomach cramps because of its unique ability to relax the muscles in the digestive tract.
The menthol in peppermint creams creates a cooling sensation that reduces inflammation and eases spasms. This helps to calm the stomach and alleviate cramps caused by irritable bowel syndrome, menstrual cramps, and other digestive issues.
The soothing properties of peppermint creams provide quick relief and promote a sense of calm, making it a popular remedy for stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Menthol: Helps with stomach cramps by acting as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, providing relief from pain and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Limonene: Contributes to the relief of stomach cramps by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate gas and bloating in the digestive system.
- Rosmarinic acid: Plays a role in alleviating stomach cramps by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, promoting overall digestive health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most used part of Mentha x piperita to make creams for stomach cramps due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which provide anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Roots: Roots are used to make creams for stomach cramps because they contain a higher concentration of menthol and other active compounds compared to leaves, making them more potent.
- Stems: Stems are also used to make creams for stomach cramps due to their high content of menthol and menthone, although to a lesser extent than leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers from a pesticide-free area for immediate use.
- Combine the harvested mentha x piperita with 1/4 cup of distilled water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to release the mentha x piperita's essential oils.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a mentha x piperita extract.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the mentha x piperita extract with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to create a smooth cream.
9. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
Curcumin, a bioactive compound found in turmeric, reduces inflammation and relaxes muscles, providing relief from cramps. It also has a natural pain-relieving effect, which helps alleviate discomfort and discomfort associated with stomach cramps.
Additionally, Curcuma longa creams may help soothe digestive issues by reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy gut environment, further contributing to its benefits in alleviating stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Curcuminoids: These polyphenolic compounds help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to stomach cramps.
- Volatile oils: These compounds, particularly turmerone and atlantone, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax smooth muscle and reduce cramping in the stomach.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Rhyzomes: They are the primary source of curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the stomach.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa contain essential oils and compounds that have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, making them effective in soothing stomach cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves of Curcuma longa are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm stomach cramps and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for stomach cramps.
- Grate 2 to 3 grams of curcuma longa rhizome into a bowl to release its active compounds.
- Combine the grated curcuma longa with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 20 to 30 minutes to facilitate oil infusion.
- Strain the curcuma longa infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl to separate solids.
- Mix the strained curcuma longa infused oil with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter to create a smooth cream.
10. Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, creams helps with stomach cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe the digestive system.
The cream is typically made from the bark of the Sambucus nigra plant, which contains compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids that have been shown to reduce inflammation and ease cramping in the stomach.
By applying the cream topically, it may help to calm the digestive system and provide relief from stomach cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra creams that help with stomach cramps.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate stomach cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing smooth muscle tissue.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds, such as ferulic and caffeic acids, possess antispasmodic properties that help calm stomach cramps by inhibiting muscle contractions.
- Isoquinoline alkaloids: These alkaloids, including berberine and saponins, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects that help soothe and calm stomach cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make creams for stomach cramps.
- Flowers: Used due to their anthraquinone content, which helps to relax the muscles and reduce cramping.
- Leaves: Employed because of their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with stomach cramps.
- Fruits: Utilized for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to calm the muscles and reduce cramping.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for stomach cramps.
- Harvest 50g of dried sambucus nigra flowers in late summer when fully ripe and fragrant for best results.
- Infuse 25g of dried sambucus nigra flowers in 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discard the solids.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the infused sambucus nigra oil with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil in a double boiler.
- Stir the mixture continuously until the beeswax has melted and the cream has thickened then remove from heat.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for stomach cramps?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with stomach cramps is a blend of peppermint, ginger, and chamomile.
Peppermint cream cools and soothes the digestive tract, while ginger cream reduces inflammation and promotes digestion. Chamomile cream calms the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate stomach cramps. Applying a combination of these creams to the abdomen can provide relief from stomach cramps and promote overall digestive health.
This blend can be used individually or in combination for effective relief.
What ailments similar to stomach cramps are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to stomach cramps that are treated with herbal creams are menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, and arthritis.
Herbal creams containing ingredients such as arnica, ginger, and capsaicin can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with these conditions.
These natural remedies can provide relief without the side effects of over-the-counter medications, making them a popular alternative for many individuals seeking natural pain management solutions.