By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Cramps
Herbal capsules for cramps are natural supplements designed to alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
They work by releasing various bioactive compounds, such as magnesium, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help relax uterine muscles and reduce inflammation. Examples of herbal capsules that help with cramps include chamomile, ginger, and turmeric capsules.
By taking these supplements, women can experience significant relief from menstrual cramp discomfort, allowing them to live more comfortably and confidently throughout their periods.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for cramps, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Angelica archangelica
- 2. Viburnum opulus
- 3. Matricaria chamomilla
- 4. Angelica sinensis
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Mentha x piperita
- 7. Trifolium pratense
- 8. Rubus idaeus
- 9. Actaea racemosa
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for cramps?
- What ailments similar to cramps are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Angelica archangelica
Angelica capsules helps with cramps because of its natural ability to relax and soothe the muscles.
The herb, also known as Dong Quai, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to ease menstrual cramps and spasms. Its active compounds, including ligustilide and butylphthalide, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help to reduce muscle tension and alleviate cramping pain.
By taking angelica capsules, women can experience a significant reduction in discomfort and improve their overall quality of life during their menstrual period.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica capsules that help with cramps.
- Phenolic glycosides: These compounds, particularly ferulic acid and apiin, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to alleviate cramping by reducing muscle spasms and inflammation.
- Alkaloids: Angelica archangelica contains alkaloids such as berberine and magnoflorine, which have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relax muscles and reduce cramping.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids like angelan and isovaleric acid in Angelica archangelica have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to the relief of muscle cramps by reducing muscle spasms and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make capsules for cramps.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part, as they contain the highest concentration of essential oils, including angelic root oil, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and terpenes, which help in relaxing the muscles and relieving menstrual cramps.
- Stems: The stems are also used, as they contain a significant amount of essential oils, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, providing relief from cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for cramps.
- Harvest fresh angelica archangelica roots and leaves in the early morning to ensure maximum potency and freshness.
- Clean the harvested roots and leaves by rinsing them gently with cold water for about 10 minutes.
- Dry the cleaned roots and leaves using a dehydrator at 40 degrees celsius for 6 hours to remove moisture.
- Grind the dried roots and leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for about 5 minutes.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 500 milligrams of the powdered angelica archangelica and seal immediately to preserve the herb.
2. Viburnum opulus
Guelder rose capsules helps with cramps because they contain a natural compound called viburnin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
When taken orally, viburnin travels to the affected areas of the body, such as the uterus or intestines, and reduces inflammation and muscle spasms that can cause pain.
By targeting the root causes of cramping, Guelder rose capsules provide relief from menstrual cramps, as well as cramps related to fibromyalgia, IBS, and other conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viburnum opulus capsules that help with cramps.
- Viburnin: Viburnin, a glycoside, may help alleviate cramps by exerting a sedative effect on the uterus and smooth muscle, thereby reducing spasms.
- Aesculetin: Aesculetin, a coumarin derivative, has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that may help to ease cramp-related pain and discomfort.
- Viburnine: Viburnine, another glycoside found in Viburnum opulus, has been shown to exhibit a mild sedative effect, which can help to reduce muscle spasms and alleviate cramping.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of guelder rose used to make capsules for cramps.
- Fruits: The fruits of Viburnum opulus are used to make capsules for cramps due to their high content of salicin and other compounds that help to relax the uterine muscles and ease menstrual cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves of Viburnum opulus are used to make capsules for cramps due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relieve cramp-like pain.
- Seeds: The seeds of Viburnum opulus are used to make capsules for cramps due to their ability to relax the uterine muscles and reduce menstrual cramp-like pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic guelder rose for cramps.
- Gather 25g of dried viburnum opulus leaves and flowers from a reliable source to ensure purity.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill for 2 minutes.
- Mix the ground plant material with 100g of gelatin or plant-based capsule material in a bowl.
- Fill empty gelatin or plant-based capsules with 250-500mg of the plant material mixture using a capsule filler.
- Seal the capsules using a capsule sealer and store them in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile capsules helps with cramps because of its natural soothing properties that help to relax muscles, ease spasms, and reduce inflammation.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have a sedative effect on the body, which can help to calm down muscle contractions and alleviate menstrual cramp discomfort. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to uterine cramps during menstruation.
By using herbal chamomile capsules, women can experience a natural and effective relief from menstrual cramp symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla capsules that help with cramps.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as a muscle relaxant, helping to alleviate cramp pain by reducing muscle spasms and inflammation.
- Luteolin: As an anti-inflammatory compound, luteolin helps to reduce cramp pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and chemicals.
- Furanoflavonoids: These terpenoid compounds have spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to relax muscles and reduce cramp pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make capsules for cramps.
- Flowers: They are commonly used due to their high content of apigenin and luteolin, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Seeds: They are often used because they contain a compound called matricarin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for cramps.
- Gather 100 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and 500 grams of gelatin capsules size 00.
- Mix 100 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 100 grams of dried flowers for 10 minutes.
- Add 50 grams of glycerin and 100 grams of distilled water to the mixture and stir for 5 minutes.
- Fill each gelatin capsule with 400 milligrams of the mixture and seal the capsules.
- Store the herbal matricaria chamomilla capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place.
4. Angelica sinensis
Dong quai capsules helps with cramps because they contain a unique blend of herbs that work to regulate hormonal imbalances in the body.
The key active compounds, such as ferulic acid and ligustilide, help to reduce spasms and relax muscles, providing relief from menstrual cramps, backaches, and other types of cramping.
Additionally, dong quai capsules have anti-inflammatory properties, which further aid in reducing pain and discomfort associated with cramping.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica sinensis capsules that help with cramps.
- Coumarins: These naturally occurring compounds help alleviate cramps by relaxing the uterine muscles, reducing spasms, and improving blood flow to the affected areas.
- Phenolic glycosides: These compounds, such as ligustilide and butylphthalide, help reduce muscle spasms and cramps by inhibiting the release of histamine and other pain-causing neurotransmitters, thus providing relief from menstrual cramps.
- Terpenoids: Specifically, compounds like ligustilide, have shown analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain associated with cramps by blocking pain signals to the brain and reducing inflammation in the affected areas.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dong quai used to make capsules for cramps.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that help relax the uterus and alleviate menstrual cramps.
- Barks: The barks are used due to their rich content of ferulic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help ease cramp pain.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their high content of essential oils, which have a sedative effect on the uterus, helping to reduce cramp pain and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dong quai for cramps.
- Harvest 30g of dried angelica sinensis roots from a trusted supplier or cultivate your own.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm place for 2-3 hours or use a food dehydrator.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the powdered angelica sinensis with 1 part of gelatin or vegetable cellulose in a bowl.
- Fill empty gelatin or vegetable cellulose capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filler for 1 hour.
5. Zingiber officinale
Ginger capsules helps with cramps because of their natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relax muscle tissue and reduce spasms.
The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to inhibit the production of pain-causing hormones, while also improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the affected area.
This targeted relief helps to ease cramping sensations and alleviate discomfort, providing fast and effective relief from menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, and other types of painful contractions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with cramps.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, are bioactive compounds that help alleviate cramps by inhibiting the production of pain-causing prostaglandins and reducing inflammation in the muscles.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, such as 6-shogaol, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which contribute to their ability to relieve cramp pain by reducing muscle spasms and inflammation.
- Terpenes: Sesquiterpenes present in ginger, such as bisabolol and zingiberene, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to mitigate muscle cramp pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected areas.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for cramps.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale contain similar compounds as the rhyzome, making them a suitable alternative for cramp relief.
- Buds: The buds are also used due to their high gingerol content, which helps in reducing inflammation and pain associated with menstrual cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for cramps.
- Harvest 50g of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes and clean them thoroughly under running water.
- Dry the rhizomes in a warm and well-ventilated area for 7-10 days at 30-40°c.
- Grind the dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
- Mix 1g of the powder with 2g of vegetable cellulose powder to create the capsule filling.
- Fill a capsule machine with the powder mixture and seal 200 capsules in about 30 minutes.
6. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint capsules helps with cramps because of their ability to relax smooth muscle tissue.
The menthol in peppermint oil has a cooling effect on the muscles, reducing spasms and pain associated with menstrual cramps. Additionally, peppermint's antispasmodic properties help to reduce inflammation and ease cramp severity.
By targeting the root cause of the issue, peppermint capsules provide fast and effective relief from cramp discomfort, allowing women to feel more comfortable and focused throughout their day.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita capsules that help with cramps.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and relax muscles, thereby alleviating cramp symptoms.
- Menthol: A terpene that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to numb pain and reduce muscle spasms associated with cramps.
- Limonene: A monoterpene that has anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic effects, helping to relax smooth muscle and reduce cramp severity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make capsules for cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are commonly used to make capsules for cramps due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps to relax uterine muscles and reduce pain.
- Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are used to make capsules for cramps because they contain a high amount of menthol and other volatile oils that help to ease cramping and discomfort.
- Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are used to make capsules for cramps due to their ability to reduce inflammation and relax the uterine muscles, providing relief from cramping and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for cramps.
- Harvest 20 grams of fresh mentha x piperita leaves at peak potency in the morning.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 40°c for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 500 milligrams of the powdered mentha x piperita with 500 milligrams of cellulose powder in a bowl.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 250 milligrams of the herbal mixture and seal immediately.
7. Trifolium pratense
Red clover capsules helps with cramps because they contain isoflavones, a type of plant-based estrogen that can help to relax muscles and reduce spasms.
These natural compounds have been shown to ease menstrual cramp discomfort by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and subsequent cramping.
Additionally, red clover's isoflavones may also help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, further contributing to their anti-cramp effects.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense capsules that help with cramps.
- Isoflavones: These plant-based compounds, particularly genistein and formononetin, help with cramps by acting as estrogen mimics, which can relax the uterine muscles and reduce cramping.
- Phenolic acids: Compounds like kaempferol and quercetin in Red Clover have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce cramping by minimizing inflammation and oxidative stress in the muscles.
- Coumarins: These compounds, including 6-prenylcoumarin and 4'-methoxycoumarin, have a mild estrogenic effect and can help relax the uterine muscles, reducing cramping associated with menstrual cycles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make capsules for cramps.
- Roots: Rich in isoflavones, which help to alleviate menstrual cramps by relaxing the uterine muscles.
- Seeds: Contain isoflavones, particularly genistein and formononetin, which have a soothing effect on the uterus.
- (there is a third option) leaves: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and uterine relaxing properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for cramps.
- Harvest 30 grams of fresh trifolium pratense flowers and dry them for 24 hours in a single layer.
- Crush 15 grams of dried trifolium pratense flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with 25 grams of vegetable cellulose powder and 10 grams of silica in a bowl.
- Use a capsule machine to fill empty capsules with 500 milligrams of the powder mixture.
- Label the capsules with the date of production and dosage information and store them in a cool dark place.
8. Rubus idaeus
Raspberry capsules helps with cramps because they contain potent antioxidants, flavonoids, and fragarine, which have a natural ability to relax and soothe muscle contractions.
The herbal extract has been traditionally used to alleviate menstrual cramp discomfort, reducing the severity and duration of painful episodes. Additionally, raspberry capsules may help regulate hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to cramping.
By addressing these underlying factors, herbal raspberry capsules provide effective relief from cramps, promoting overall comfort and well-being during menstruation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rubus idaeus capsules that help with cramps.
- Salicin: Salicin, a phenolic compound, helps alleviate cramps by reducing inflammation and acting as a mild analgesic to ease pain.
- Ellagic acid: Ellagic acid, a polyphenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help relax smooth muscles and reduce cramping.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties that help reduce cramping and alleviate pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of raspberry used to make capsules for cramps.
- Leaves: They are commonly used due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate cramps and other menstrual-related issues.
- Roots: They contain compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation, making them a popular choice for cramp relief.
- Fruits: Although the fruits themselves are edible, they contain compounds that may help ease menstrual cramps, which are often used in herbal remedies.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic raspberry for cramps.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh rubus idaeus leaves and flowers at dawn to ensure peak potency and flavor.
- Dry the harvested rubus idaeus in a low-temperature dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Grind 2 tablespoons of dried rubus idaeus into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds.
- Mix 2 teaspoons of the rubus idaeus powder with 1 teaspoon of gelatin in a small bowl for 10 minutes.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them immediately to preserve the herbal remedy for 6 months.
9. Actaea racemosa
Black cohosh capsules helps with cramps because they contain a unique combination of compounds that work together to relax muscle tissues and reduce inflammation.
The plant's active ingredients, such as cimiragenin and cimicifugin, have been shown to bind to receptors in the body, blocking pain signals and calming muscle spasms.
Additionally, black cohosh's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and ease cramping discomfort, providing fast and effective relief from menstrual cramps and other types of musculoskeletal pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Actaea racemosa capsules that help with cramps.
- Phenolic glycosides: These compounds have anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relax smooth muscles and reduce cramping.
- Isoferulic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic effects, which help to alleviate menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing uterine muscles.
- Alkaloids: Although berberine is more commonly associated with other plants like Berberis and Hydrastis, it has been found to be present in small amounts in Actaea racemosa. Berberine has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of black cohosh used to make capsules for cramps.
- Roots: Used to make capsules for cramps because they contain actein, a compound that helps to relax uterine muscles.
- Barks: Used to make capsules for cramps because they contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and relax uterine muscles.
- Roots: Used to make capsules for cramps because they also contain other compounds like isocryptomerin and acteoside that have anti-spasmodic properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic black cohosh for cramps.
- Harvest actaea racemosa roots in late summer or early fall after the plant has gone to seed.
- Dry the roots in a warm dry place for at least two weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
- Mix the powder with a binding agent such as gelatin or cellulose in a 1:2 ratio.
- Fill empty capsules with the powder mixture and seal them immediately to preserve freshness.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion capsules helps with cramps because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce muscle spasms and ease discomfort.
The herb's natural diuretic properties also enable the body to release excess fluids and toxins, further alleviating cramp symptoms. Additionally, dandelion's magnesium content can help regulate electrolyte balance and relax tense muscles, providing quick relief from cramps.
Overall, herbal dandelion capsules offer a safe and effective way to alleviate menstrual cramps and promote overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale capsules that help with cramps.
- Taraxasterol: Helps alleviate cramps by acting as a spasmolytic agent, reducing muscle contractions and promoting relaxation.
- Taraxasterol acetate: Contributes to cramp relief by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help soothe and calm the affected area.
- Flavonoids: Plays a crucial role in cramp relief by exhibiting antispasmodic properties, which help regulate muscle contractions and promote smooth muscle relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make capsules for cramps.
- Leaves: They contain taraxasterol, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate cramps.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain taraxasterol and taraxeryl acetate, which have been found to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, thus providing relief from cramps.
- Seeds: The seeds of Taraxacum officinale are a rich source of saponins, which are believed to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing cramp pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for cramps.
- Harvest approximately 30 grams of taraxacum officinale roots and leaves from a clean and dry environment.
- Dry the collected plant material for 2 hours at 50 degrees celsius in a food dehydrator.
- Grind the dried taraxacum officinale into a fine powder using a spice grinder for 30 seconds.
- Mix 250 milligrams of the taraxacum officinale powder with a suitable capsule filler material in a small bowl.
- Fill 10 empty gelatin capsules with the taraxacum officinale mixture using a small spoon and seal immediately.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for cramps?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with cramps is a blend of Dong Quai, Cramp Bark, and Ginger.
Dong Quai helps to regulate menstrual cycles, while Cramp Bark targets spasms and pain. Ginger, rich in anti-inflammatory properties, aids in reducing inflammation and discomfort.
This synergy works together to alleviate cramping, soothe the uterus, and promote overall hormonal balance. Regular consumption of these herbal capsules can lead to a significant reduction in menstrual cramp severity and frequency.
Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.
What ailments similar to cramps are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to cramps/capsules.html">cramps/capsules.html">cramps that are treated with herbal capsules are spasms, muscle contractions, and menstrual disorders.
Herbal capsules like Valerian root, Passionflower, and Dong quai have been used to alleviate symptoms such as muscle stiffness, twitching, and pain.
These natural remedies can provide relief from cramp-like conditions, including menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, and sciatica, by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and regulating hormonal balance.