10 best herbal essential oils for cramps

Herbal essential oils for cramps are natural, plant-based extracts that offer relief from menstrual cramps, backaches, and other discomforts associated with PMS.

These oils work by targeting inflammation, relaxing muscle tension, and balancing hormones, providing instant comfort and relaxation. Examples of herbal essential oils that help with cramps include Clary Sage, Lavender, and Ginger, which can be inhaled, massaged into the skin, or added to bathwater.

By using these oils, women can alleviate their symptoms and improve their overall well-being, allowing them to live a more comfortable and stress-free life.

The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for cramps, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Rubus chamaemorus

Cloudberry essential oils helps with cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relax the muscles and reduce spasms.

The oil's warming and comforting effects also soothe the affected area, providing relief from pain and discomfort. Additionally, cloudberry's ability to balance the body's hormones and regulate menstrual cycles can help to alleviate symptoms of cramps, such as bloating and mood swings.

Overall, using cloudberry essential oils topically or inhaling it aromatically can provide fast and effective relief from cramping.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in cloudberry essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Anti-inflammatory: Cloudberry essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce muscle spasms and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps by blocking the production of prostaglandins.
• Pain-relieving: The essential oil contains compounds such as sesquiterpenes, which have natural analgesic and antispasmodic properties, making it effective in relieving pain and discomfort caused by cramps.
• Antioxidant: Cloudberry essential oil is rich in antioxidants, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, potentially reducing the severity of menstrual cramps.

The list below shows the primary parts of cloudberry used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: The roots of the cloudberry plant contain bioactive compounds that help relax uterine muscles, relieving menstrual cramps and discomfort.
• Barks: The barks of the cloudberry plant have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and ease cramp pain in the abdomen.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cloudberry for cramps.

1. Harvest high-quality fresh or dried rubus chamaemorus leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Cleanse the harvested plant material by gently rinsing it with cold distilled water and patting dry with a paper towel.
3. Combine 100 grams of cleaned plant material with 400 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond or jojoba oil in a glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days, shaking the jar twice daily to facilitate steam distillation and solvent extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container, discarding the plant material and retaining the essential oil-rich liquid for bottling and storage.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger essential oils helps with cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relax muscle tissue and reduce pain.

The oil's active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to alleviate spasms and contractions, providing fast and effective relief from menstrual cramps, migraines, and other types of cramping.

Additionally, ginger essential oils can also help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, further contributing to its calming effects on the body.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Ginger essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, help reduce inflammation and relax muscle spasms caused by menstrual cramps, making it an effective natural pain reliever.
• Antispasmodic properties: The antispasmodic compounds in ginger essential oil, including citral and geranial, help relax smooth muscle contractions, reducing the severity and frequency of menstrual cramps, and promoting a sense of relief from discomfort.
• Digestive stimulant properties: Ginger essential oil's digestive stimulating effects can help alleviate symptoms of PMS, such as bloating and nausea, which are often associated with cramping, by stimulating digestion and relieving stomach upset.

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: The roots of the ginger plant contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which help to relax muscles and reduce spasms associated with menstrual cramps.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce pain and swelling caused by cramps, making them an effective ingredient in essential oils for cramp relief.

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

1. Harvest high-quality fresh ginger roots of zingiber officinale plant.
2. Dry the harvested ginger roots in a warm well-ventilated area for 7 days.
3. Grind the dried ginger roots into fine powder using mortar and pestle.
4. Mix one part of powdered ginger with four parts of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil at room temperature.
5. Steep the mixture for 24 hours before straining and storing the essential oil in a dark glass bottle.

3. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with cramps because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

When applied topically, the menthol in peppermint oil binds to pain receptors, blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain, providing rapid relief from discomfort. Additionally, peppermint's warming sensation helps to relax muscle spasms, reducing tension and easing cramp-related stiffness.

By targeting both pain and inflammation, peppermint essential oil can effectively alleviate menstrual cramps, allowing women to find relief and regain their comfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Pain relief: Peppermint essential oil's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions.
• Spasmolysis: The menthol content in peppermint essential oil helps to relax smooth muscle tissue, reducing spasms and cramping in the uterus and other areas, such as the digestive tract.
• Antispasmodic: Peppermint essential oil's antispasmodic properties help to relieve cramps by reducing the frequency and severity of muscle contractions, allowing for a more comfortable and relaxed state.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: The roots of peppermint are rich in sesquiterpenes, which help to relax muscle spasms and reduce cramp intensity.
• Leaves: Peppermint leaves contain menthol, a natural pain reliever that helps to ease menstrual cramps and discomfort.

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

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from your garden or a trusted supplier.
2. Dry the harvested peppermint leaves using a food dehydrator or oven.
3. Grind dried peppermint leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
4. Steam distill the ground peppermint powder in a distillation apparatus.
5. Filter and bottle the extracted mentha x piperita essential oil.

4. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel essential oils helps with cramps because of its natural ability to relax and soothe the muscles.

The oil's analgesic properties reduce pain and inflammation, providing fast relief from menstrual cramps, headaches, and other types of muscle spasms. Fennel's anise-like aroma also helps to calm the nervous system, promoting a sense of relaxation and reducing stress levels.

By using fennel essential oils topically or aromatically, individuals can experience a natural and effective way to alleviate cramp-related discomfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Antispasmodic: Fennel essential oil's antispasmodic property helps relieve cramps by relaxing the smooth muscles, reducing muscle spasms and pain.
• Anti-inflammatory: Fennel oil's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation and swelling associated with cramps, providing relief from discomfort and pain.
• Antioxidant: Fennel essential oil's antioxidant properties help protect against oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to cramp severity and duration.

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, which help to relax muscles and relieve spasms associated with menstrual cramps.
• Buds: High in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate cramping and discomfort.

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

1. Harvest fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves in the early morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using air circulation or shade drying method for 7-10 days.
3. Crush dried foeniculum vulgare leaves into smaller pieces using mortar and pestle to release essential oils.
4. Steam distill crushed foeniculum vulgare leaves in a still with 20-30% water ratio for 1.5 hours.
5. Filter the resulting essential oil from the distilled water and store it in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids for later use.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with cramps because it contains linalool, a natural compound that relaxes muscle tissue and reduces inflammation.

When applied topically or inhaled, lavender oil can help to calm spasms and ease tension, providing fast and effective relief from menstrual cramp pain. Its soothing aroma also promotes relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety that often exacerbates cramps.

As a result, English lavender essential oils can offer natural and gentle relief for women experiencing discomfort during their periods.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Antispasmodic: English Lavender oil helps to relax muscle spasms and reduce cramping by slowing down nerve impulses, providing relief from menstrual cramps, spasms, and other types of muscle contractions.
• Anti-inflammatory: The oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with cramps, which can provide relief from discomfort and pain.
• Calming and sedative: English Lavender oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce anxiety and stress that may exacerbate cramps, promoting relaxation and improving overall well-being.

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: The roots of the English lavender plant contain sesquiterpenes, which have a calming effect on the uterine muscles and help alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.
• Buds: The buds are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with cramps.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for cramps.

1. Harvest high-quality dried lavandula angustifolia flowers from a reputable supplier ensuring minimal pesticide exposure.
2. Combine one part dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with four parts carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
3. Steam distill the mixture in a dedicated still for 30-45 minutes to extract the essential oils and flavor compounds.
4. Collect the extracted essential oil and separate it from the carrier oil using a decanting process or coffee filter paper.
5. Store the resulting lavandula angustifolia essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature for future use.

6. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian essential oils helps with cramps because of its natural sedative and anti-inflammatory properties.

When applied topically or inhaled, valerian oil can help to relax muscle tissue and reduce spasms caused by menstrual cramps. Its calming effects also promote a sense of relaxation and reduce overall stress levels, further alleviating cramp discomfort.

Additionally, valerian's ability to ease muscle tension helps to improve circulation, allowing for better oxygenation and nutrient delivery to the affected areas, further reducing cramping.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Muscle relaxant properties: Valerian essential oil has been shown to relax muscles and reduce muscle spasms, which can help alleviate menstrual cramps, back pain, and other types of cramping.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Valerian's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with cramps, providing relief from discomfort and pain.
• Sedative and calming effects: The sedative and calming effects of Valerian essential oil can help promote relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate cramping, and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
• Buds: Containing high concentrations of valepotriates, which have a relaxing effect on the uterus and can reduce muscle spasms associated with cramps.

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

1. Harvest 500g of dried valeriana officinalis roots and stems and chop them into small pieces.
2. Combine the chopped herbs with 500ml of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks allowing the oils to infuse slowly.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Label and store the essential oil in a dark glass bottle away from heat and direct sunlight for up to 1 year.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion essential oils helps with cramps because its unique blend of bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

When applied topically or inhaled, dandelion oil can help ease muscle spasms by reducing inflammation and relaxing tense muscles.

Its calming effects on the nervous system also contribute to its cramp-relieving benefits, providing instant relief from menstrual cramps, back cramps, and other types of muscle contractions.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Antispasmodic property: Dandelion essential oil helps to relieve muscle spasms and cramps by relaxing the muscles and reducing inflammation, providing relief from menstrual cramps, back cramps, and other types of spasms.
• Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory compounds in dandelion essential oil help to reduce swelling and pain associated with cramps, making it effective in relieving symptoms of conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and gout.
• Pain-relieving property: Dandelion essential oil contains analgesic properties that help to numb the sensation of pain, providing quick relief from cramp-related discomfort, headaches, and other types of chronic pain.

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: Dandelion roots are rich in sesquiterpenes, which provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them effective against menstrual cramps.
• Flowers: The flowers of the dandelion plant contain flavonoids, which have anti-spasmodic and uterine relaxing effects, helping to alleviate cramping.

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

1. Harvest high-quality dried taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in amounts of approximately 100g.
2. Dehydrate the plant material by spreading it thinly on paper towels or clean cloth for 7-10 days.
3. Transfer the dehydrated material to a dark glass container with an airtight lid and store it in a cool dry place for at least 30 days.
4. Add 500ml of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil and stir well to combine, then let it steep for 2-3 weeks shaking daily.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another container discarding solids and store the essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight lid at room temperature.

8. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree essential oils helps with cramps because they contain compounds that have a relaxing effect on the muscles, helping to soothe and calm spasms.

The oil's anti-inflammatory properties also work to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with cramping. Additionally, its natural antispasmodic properties help to ease muscle contractions, providing relief from menstrual cramps, back pain, and other types of cramp-related discomfort.

When used topically or aromatically, maidenhair tree essential oil can provide fast and effective relief from cramp-related pain.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in maidenhair tree essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Antispasmodic: Ginkgo biloba essential oil helps relieve muscle spasms and cramps by relaxing the smooth muscles, reducing their contraction and amplitude.
• Anti-inflammatory: The oil's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and pain associated with menstrual cramps, making it an effective natural remedy for dysmenorrhea.
• Pain-relieving: Ginkgo biloba essential oil has been shown to have analgesic and antipyretic properties, which help alleviate the intense pain caused by uterine contractions during menstruation.

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: The roots contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and saponins, which help to relax uterine muscles and alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
• Barks: The barks of the maidenhair tree have been traditionally used in folk medicine to treat women's health issues, including dysmenorrhea, due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for cramps.

1. Harvest fresh ginkgo biloba leaves in early morning or late afternoon when dew is still present on the leaves.
2. Wash the harvested leaves gently with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Steam distill 20 grams of washed ginkgo biloba leaves with 1000 milliliters of distilled water for 30 minutes.
4. Collect the essential oil that separates from the steam distillation process into a clean glass container.
5. Store the final herbal ginkgo biloba essential oil in a dark glass bottle at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to six months.

9. Betula pendula

Silver birch essential oils helps with cramps because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil contains compounds that work to relax muscles, reducing spasms and pain associated with menstrual cramps. Additionally, it has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety that may exacerbate cramping.

When inhaled or applied topically, silver birch essential oil provides rapid relief from cramp discomfort, allowing for a more comfortable and peaceful experience.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in silver birch essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Analgesic property: Silver Birch oil's analgesic property helps to reduce pain associated with cramps, making it a natural reliever for muscle and menstrual cramps.
• Antispasmodic property: The antispasmodic properties of Silver Birch oil help to relax the muscles and ease spasms, reducing the severity and frequency of cramp episodes.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Silver Birch oil's anti-inflammatory property helps to reduce swelling and inflammation associated with cramps, making it a natural remedy for menstrual cramps, backaches, and other types of muscle cramps.

The list below shows the primary parts of silver birch used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: The roots of the silver birch plant contain compounds that help to relax muscles and alleviate menstrual cramps.
• Barks: The bark of the silver birch plant has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with cramps.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic silver birch for cramps.

1. Harvest 50 grams of fresh betula pendula leaves and stems at dawn on a sunny day.
2. Cleanse the plant material by gently rinsing with distilled water for 10 minutes.
3. Steam distill the plant material in a still using 500 ml of distilled water and 1000 watts for 1 hour.
4. Filter the distillate through a coffee filter paper to separate the essential oil from water for 30 minutes.
5. Store the resulting essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight lids and refrigerate at 4 degrees celsius for up to 6 months.

10. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow essential oils helps with cramps because of its natural ability to relax muscles and reduce inflammation.

The oil's active compounds, such as chromandrin and sanguinarine, work together to ease spasms and tension in the body, providing fast relief from menstrual cramps, muscle cramps, and even headaches.

Additionally, yarrow essential oils have anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm irritated tissues, further reducing discomfort and promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in yarrow essential oils that aid with cramps.

• Anti-inflammatory: Yarrow essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and swelling associated with menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation in the uterine lining.
• Antispasmodic: The antispasmodic properties of yarrow essential oil can help to relax the uterine muscles, reducing spasms and cramping caused by hormonal changes during menstruation.
• Pain relieving: Yarrow essential oil contains compounds that have been shown to have analgesic and anesthetic properties, helping to numb the pain associated with menstrual cramps and provide relief.

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make essential oils for cramps.

• Roots: Yarrow roots are used to create a calming and soothing essential oil that can help alleviate menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
• Leaves: Yarrow leaves contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, making them effective in relieving cramping and pain associated with menstruation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for cramps.

1. Harvest high-quality achillea millefolium leaves at dawn on a dry day ensuring freshness and potency.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using shade drying or oven drying at low heat for 6-8 hours achieving optimal moisture levels.
3. Steam distill the dried leaves using a clevenger apparatus with water at 100°c for 4-5 hours yielding high-quality essential oil.
4. Filter the resulting essential oil through coffee filters or paper towels to remove impurities and sediment taking approximately 30 minutes.
5. Bottle the filtered essential oil in dark glass containers and store in a cool place for up to 12 months away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

How to best treat cramps with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat cramps with herbal essential oils is by using a combination of lavender and chamomile oils.

These calming essences help relax tense muscles, reducing cramp severity and frequency.

Add a few drops of each oil to a warm bath or massage them into the affected area for quick relief.

What ailments similar to cramps are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to cramps that are treated with herbal essential oils are spasms, stiffness, and inflammation.

For instance, peppermint oil is used to ease muscle spasms and headaches, while eucalyptus oil helps to relieve joint pain and inflammation. Lavender oil is known for its calming effects on menstrual cramps and tension headaches, while ginger oil is effective in reducing nausea and digestive discomfort associated with stomach cramps.

These herbal essential oils can be used topically or in aromatherapy to provide natural relief from these types of ailments.