By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Cramps
Herbal teas for cramps are a natural remedy made from various plant extracts that help alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.
These teas work by relaxing muscles, reducing inflammation, and regulating hormone levels. Examples of herbal teas for cramps include chamomile, ginger, and peppermint.
Drinking these teas can improve lives by reducing pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to lead more active and comfortable lives during their menstrual cycles.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for cramps, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Angelica archangelica
- 2. Paeonia lactiflora
- 3. Vitex agnus castus
- 4. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
- 5. Viburnum prunifolium
- 6. Silybum marianum
- 7. Crataegus monogyna
- 8. Ginkgo biloba
- 9. Echinacea purpurea
- 10. Hypericum perforatum
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for cramps?
- What ailments similar to cramps are treated with herbal teas?
1. Angelica archangelica
Angelica archangelica, also known as angelica, teas helps with cramps because it contains a compound called ligustilide, which has a relaxing effect on the muscles.
The tea also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of menstrual cramps. Additionally, angelica archangelica tea is believed to balance the body's hormonal levels, further alleviating cramp symptoms.
Its natural properties make it a popular remedy for women experiencing menstrual cramps, providing relief and comfort during this time.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica teas that help with cramps.
- Phenylethylamine: This amine helps with cramps by acting as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory, reducing the severity of menstrual cramps.
- Isoimperatorin: This furanocoumarin derivative has antispasmodic properties, helping to relax muscle spasms and reduce the frequency and intensity of cramps.
- Coumarins: These furanocoumarins exhibit antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to alleviate menstrual cramps by reducing uterine contractions and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make teas for cramps.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of angelica root extract, which is a natural antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory agent, making it effective in relieving menstrual cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in essential oils and flavonoids, which have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to ease crampy pain and discomfort associated with PMS and other menstrual issues.
- Stems: The stems of Angelica archangelica contain a compound called bergapten, which has been shown to have antispasmodic properties, making it useful in teas for relieving menstrual cramps and other crampy conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for cramps.
- Harvest fresh angelica archangelica roots in early morning when the dew is still present on the plant.
- Clean the harvested roots thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces weighing about 10 grams per serving for steeping.
- Combine the chopped roots with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup and let steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate cup to remove the solids before serving.
2. Paeonia lactiflora
Paeonia lactiflora, also known as Chinese peony, teas helps with cramps because of its unique combination of flavonoids and anthraquinones.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce cramping. The tea also contains paeoniflorin, a glycoside that has been shown to inhibit the release of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that can trigger cramps.
By regulating prostaglandin levels, Paeonia lactiflora tea helps to alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia lactiflora teas that help with cramps.
- Paeoniflorin: Paeoniflorin is a glycoside that helps alleviate cramps by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and inhibiting the release of pain-causing neurotransmitters.
- Paeonol: Paeonol is a phenolic compound that helps with cramps by reducing inflammation, relaxing smooth muscle, and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Benzenoids: Benzenoids are a group of volatile organic compounds found in Paeonia lactiflora, which help alleviate cramps by reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation, and modulating the body's response to pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chinese peony used to make teas for cramps.
- Roots: Used due to their ability to ease menstrual cramps and other discomforts associated with PMS.
- Leaves: Utilized for their analgesic properties, which help in reducing the severity of cramps.
- Flowers: Employed for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help in alleviating menstrual cramp discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese peony for cramps.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh paeonia lactiflora flowers or 2 tablespoons of dried flowers from a trusted source.
- Gently rinse the flowers with cool water to remove dirt and debris from the herbal plant.
- Combine the flowers with 1 quart of boiling water to create a tea infusion in a heat-resistant container.
- Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid reaches your desired strength and flavor.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove the plant material and enjoy.
3. Vitex agnus castus
Vitex agnus castus, also known as chaste tree, teas helps with cramps because it contains a unique compound called agnuside, which helps regulate hormonal balance in the body.
This balance is essential for reducing menstrual cramps and other symptoms associated with PMS. The herbal tea also contains flavonoids and terpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe cramps and ease discomfort.
Regular consumption of Vitex agnus castus tea may help alleviate menstrual cramps, promoting a more comfortable and balanced menstrual cycle.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitex agnus castus teas that help with cramps.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with cramps by modulating neurotransmitter activity, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which regulate menstrual cycle and pain perception.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Chasteberry tea contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate cramps by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the uterus.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to have estrogen-like effects, which may help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce the severity of cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chaste tree used to make teas for cramps.
- Flowers: They are the primary part used to make teas for menstrual cramps due to their high concentration of iridoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Seeds: The seeds are also used to make teas for menstrual cramps, as they contain a higher concentration of agnuside, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant are sometimes used to make teas for menstrual cramps, although they may be less potent than the flowers or seeds, they still contain iridoids and other compounds that can help alleviate cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chaste tree for cramps.
- Gather 1 ounce dried vitex agnus castus berries and 1 quart boiling water to steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the dried berries with boiling water in a heat-resistant container to create a tea infusion.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove the berry solids.
- Add honey or lemon to taste the tea as desired to enhance its flavor and aroma.
- Drink the tea immediately after preparation to reap its potential health benefits and effects.
4. Arctostaphylos uva ursi
Arctostaphylos uva ursi, also known as bearberry, teas helps with cramps because of its unique combination of compounds, particularly arbutin and ursolic acid.
These natural components have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce spasms. Additionally, bearberry tea has been traditionally used to help reduce menstrual cramps by acting as a natural pain reliever and promoting a balanced hormonal environment.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for women experiencing cramps and discomfort during their menstrual cycles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctostaphylos uva ursi teas that help with cramps.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid compound helps alleviate cramps by reducing inflammation and modulating muscle spasms through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Arbutin: This phenolic glycoside acts as an antispasmodic agent, helping to relax muscle spasms and reduce cramp intensity by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters that cause muscle contraction.
- Vitamin c: This essential nutrient acts as an antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in muscles, which can contribute to cramp severity, while also helping to regulate muscle function and contractions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bearberry used to make teas for cramps.
- Leaves: Rich in arbutin, a compound that helps to relax muscles and alleviate cramp-related pain.
- Barks: Contain flavonoids, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to soothe cramp symptoms.
- Buds: Rich in antioxidants and arbutin, helping to reduce muscle spasms and ease cramp discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bearberry for cramps.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of arctostaphylos uva ursi leaves and flowers in late summer when they are fully ripe.
- Dry the harvested leaves and flowers in a low-temperature dehydrator or shade for 1-2 weeks.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried arctostaphylos uva ursi leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to prevent further infusion and bitterness.
- Serve the tea immediately and store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
5. Viburnum prunifolium
Viburnum prunifolium, also known as blackhaw, teas helps with cramps because of its unique combination of tannins, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds.
These compounds have been shown to have a relaxing effect on the uterus, reducing muscle spasms and alleviating menstrual cramps. Additionally, blackhaw's antispasmodic properties help to regulate hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to cramps.
By promoting a sense of calm and reducing inflammation, blackhaw teas can provide relief from cramps, making it a popular natural remedy for menstrual discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viburnum prunifolium teas that help with cramps.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have spasmolytic properties, helping to relax muscles and reduce cramping by inhibiting the contraction of smooth muscle cells.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with cramps.
- Alkaloids: Berberine, an alkaloid present in Viburnum prunifolium, has been shown to have spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate cramping and associated discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of blackhaw used to make teas for cramps.
- Leaves: They are used for their spasmolytic properties, which can help alleviate menstrual cramps.
- Roots: They contain compounds that can help relax uterine muscles and ease cramping.
- Fruits: The fruit, particularly the berries, is used to treat menstrual cramps due to its anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blackhaw for cramps.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of dried viburnum prunifolium leaves and flowers from a trusted source in the morning.
- Dry the harvested leaves and flowers in a single layer at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 1 hour.
- Grind the dried leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and drink it immediately while it is still warm for best results.
6. Silybum marianum
Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, teas helps with cramps because of its rich flavonoid and silymarin content.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce spasms. The silymarin in milk thistle tea has also been shown to have a regulatory effect on the body's natural hormone balance, which can help to alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.
As a result, many women turn to milk thistle tea as a natural remedy for cramps and other menstrual-related issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Silybum marianum teas that help with cramps.
- Silymarin: This flavonoid complex helps with cramps by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the muscles, thereby alleviating pain and spasms.
- Silychristin: A component of silymarin, silychristin helps with cramps by inhibiting the release of pain-causing substances, such as bradykinin, and reducing muscle spasms.
- Linoleic acid: This omega-6 fatty acid helps with cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing muscle spasms, thereby providing relief from menstrual cramps and other types of muscle pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of milk thistle used to make teas for cramps.
- Seeds: The seeds are commonly used to make teas for cramps due to their high concentration of silymarin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for cramps as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas for cramps due to their potential to relax muscles and reduce spasms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milk thistle for cramps.
- Harvest 15-30 grams of silybum marianum flowers and leaves from a clean and dry area.
- Dry the harvested silybum marianum flowers and leaves in a warm place for 7-10 days.
- Grind 5-10 grams of dried silybum marianum flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a grinder.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of ground silybum marianum in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids then consume the tea immediately while warm.
7. Crataegus monogyna
Crataegus monogyna, also known as hawthorn, teas helps with cramps because of its unique ability to relax the uterine muscles and improve blood flow.
The tea's anti-inflammatory properties may reduce spasms and alleviate menstrual cramp pain. Additionally, the flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs) in Crataegus monogyna help to regulate hormonal imbalances and stabilize the body's natural cycle, contributing to a reduction in cramp severity and frequency.
This natural remedy offers a promising alternative for managing menstrual discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna teas that help with cramps.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and isorhapontigenin, have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate muscle cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing muscle spasms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, exhibit anti-spasmodic effects that help relax muscle cramps by inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters that stimulate muscle contractions.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, including ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, have anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties that help reduce muscle cramping by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and relaxing muscle spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make teas for cramps.
- Fruits: They are used to make teas for cramps as they are believed to have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve menstrual cramps.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for cramps as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce menstrual cramp severity and improve overall menstrual health.
- Buds: They are used to make teas for cramps as they are thought to possess antispasmodic properties that can help alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for cramps.
- Gather crataegus monogyna leaves and flowers in a quantity of 1 teaspoon per 8 ounces of water.
- Combine the gathered crataegus monogyna with boiling water in a ratio of 1:8.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes to release the herbal properties.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
- Store the remaining tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
8. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, teas helps with cramps because of its ability to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Ginkgo biloba act as natural vasodilators, widening blood vessels and increasing circulation to the affected areas. This enhanced blood flow helps to relax the uterine muscles, relieving cramp pain and discomfort.
Additionally, Ginkgo biloba's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to cramp severity, promoting a sense of relief and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with cramps.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate cramps by inhibiting the release of pain-causing chemicals and improving blood flow, which can reduce muscle spasms.
- Terpenoids: Specifically, bilobalide and ginkgolides, terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba tea may help alleviate cramps by inhibiting the action of neurotransmitters that trigger muscle contractions.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin in Ginkgo biloba tea may help reduce cramp severity by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the activity of pain receptors.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make teas for cramps.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their potential to ease menstrual cramps and other symptoms associated with PMS.
- Seeds: They are used to make teas for their possible anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Roots: They are used to make teas for their potential to reduce menstrual cramp pain and other symptoms related to PMS.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for cramps.
- Gather 30-60 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and store them in an airtight container for up to two years.
- Measure 5-10 grams of the dried ginkgo biloba leaves for a single serving.
- Combine the measured ginkgo biloba leaves with 250-500 ml of boiling water in a teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors and nutrients to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and serve hot or chilled as desired.
9. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea has been traditionally used to reduce muscle spasms and alleviate menstrual cramps. The compounds in Echinacea purpurea, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, are believed to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation in the uterus.
This natural remedy can provide relief from cramps and promote a sense of calm and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with cramps.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce muscle spasms and alleviate cramp pain.
- Isoflavones: Echinacea purpurea contains isoflavones like echinatin, which have antispasmodic effects, helping to relax muscle contractions and provide relief from cramps.
- Phenolic acids: Compounds like caffeic acid and ferulic acid exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing the severity of cramps and muscle spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for cramps.
- Flowers: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that help alleviate cramps.
- Roots: Contain compounds that help to relax the muscles and reduce cramp severity.
- Leaves: May be used to create teas that help to ease muscle spasms and cramps due to their analgesic properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for cramps.
- Harvest the echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in the late summer when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in a warm dry place for 1 week.
- Measure 2 teaspoons of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves per 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the dried echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the echinacea purpurea tea and discard the solids then serve immediately.
10. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, teas helps with cramps because of its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
The herb's active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, help to relax the uterine muscles, reducing cramp severity and frequency. Additionally, St. John's Wort teas are rich in antioxidants, which can help to soothe and calm the body, alleviating menstrual cramp discomfort and promoting a sense of overall well-being.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to provide relief from menstrual cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with cramps.
- Hyperforin: Hyperforin has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate cramp pain by reducing inflammation and numbing the affected area.
- N-feruloylserotonin: N-feruloylserotonin has a relaxing effect on muscles, which helps to reduce muscle spasms and alleviate cramp pain.
- Quercetin: Quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce muscle inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the alleviation of cramp pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to alleviate cramp pain.
- Flowers: The flowers are rich in flavonoids and xanthones, which have analgesic and antispasmodic effects, providing relief from menstrual cramps.
- Roots: The roots contain hypericin and hyperforin, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to reduce cramp pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for cramps.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Clean the dried flowers by gently shaking them to remove any debris or dust.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the dried flowers in 250ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the flowers.
- Allow the tea to cool for 5 minutes before consuming in small amounts throughout the day.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for cramps?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with cramps is a blend of Ginger, Peppermint, and Chamomile.
Ginger tea has anti-inflammatory properties that ease abdominal cramps, while peppermint tea relaxes the muscles and reduces spasms. Chamomile tea, rich in apigenin, calms the mind and body, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
This combination not only alleviates cramp pain but also soothes the digestive system, making it an effective remedy for menstrual cramps and other types of cramps.
What ailments similar to cramps are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to cramps/teas.html">cramps/teas.html">cramps that are treated with herbal teas are menstrual irregularities, bloating, and digestive issues.
Herbs such as chamomile, peppermint, and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate cramp-like discomforts. Dandelion root tea is often used to treat water retention and bloating, while raspberry leaf tea can help regulate menstrual cycles. Additionally, herbs like passionflower and valerian root can soothe anxiety and stress-related cramps.
These teas offer a natural and gentle approach to managing these common ailments.