By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Menstrual Cramps
Herbal capsules for menstrual cramps are a natural solution to alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with menstrual periods.
These capsules contain herbal extracts such as ginger, turmeric, and chasteberry, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help to relax muscles and reduce cramping. Examples of herbal capsules include those containing dong quai, chamomile, and passionflower.
By taking these capsules regularly, women can experience significant relief from menstrual cramps, allowing them to continue their daily activities without disruption.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for menstrual cramps, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Viburnum opulus
- 2. Zingiber officinale
- 3. Curcuma longa
- 4. Matricaria chamomilla
- 5. Mentha x piperita
- 6. Trifolium pratense
- 7. Angelica sinensis
- 8. Valeriana officinalis
- 9. Tanacetum parthenium
- 10. Lavandula angustifolia
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for menstrual cramps?
- What ailments similar to menstrual cramps are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Viburnum opulus
Guelder rose capsules helps with menstrual cramps because they contain a natural compound called valerenic acid, which has been shown to relax uterine muscles and reduce inflammation.
Additionally, the capsules' high concentration of bioflavonoids helps to improve blood flow and reduce prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that can cause cramping.
As a result, guelder rose capsules provide effective relief from menstrual cramps, allowing women to manage their symptoms naturally and maintain a healthy quality of life during their period.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viburnum opulus capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Aesculetin: Aesculetin, a coumarin derivative, has been reported to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
- Viburnin: Viburnin, a flavonoid glycoside, has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which could contribute to the relief of menstrual cramp symptoms.
- Oleanolic acid: Oleanolic acid, a triterpenoid saponin, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which may help reduce menstrual cramp pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of guelder rose used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Fruits: The fruits of Viburnum opulus, also known as guelder rose berries, are used to make capsules for menstrual cramps due to their reported analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The bark of Viburnum opulus is used to make capsules for menstrual cramps due to its reported anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Viburnum opulus are used to make capsules for menstrual cramps due to their reported analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic guelder rose for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest 250 grams of dried viburnum opulus flowers from a trusted source.
- Crush the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 10 grams of the powder with 1 gram of beeswax and 5 grams of glycerin.
- Fill 250 empty gelatin capsules with the mixture using a capsule filling tool.
- Label and date the capsules for future reference and safe storage.
2. Zingiber officinale
Ginger capsules helps with menstrual cramps because they contain compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce uterine contractions and ease pain.
The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to relax the uterine muscles, reducing cramp severity and frequency. Additionally, ginger has been shown to increase the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that help to reduce inflammation and ease menstrual discomfort.
As a result, taking herbal ginger capsules may provide significant relief from menstrual cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Gingerols and shogaols: These sesquiterpene compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
- Gingerol-6: It is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation during menstrual cramps.
- Zingiberone: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps, and also has a sedative effect that can help with relaxation and reduce stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: The underground stem of a plant that stores nutrients, used to make capsules for menstrual cramps due to its active compounds that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Roots: Roots: The underground part of a plant that anchors it, used to make capsules for menstrual cramps because of its high concentration of gingerols and shogaols that help alleviate cramps and other symptoms.
- Buds: Buds: The early stage of a plant's flower or leaf, used to make capsules for menstrual cramps due to its higher concentration of active compounds compared to mature parts of the plant, providing faster relief from menstrual cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest 250g of dried zingiber officinale rhizomes from a reliable source and clean them thoroughly.
- Crush the dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a spice grinder for 30 seconds.
- Mix 250g of the powder with 100g of vegetable cellulose powder as a capsule filler.
- Fill a capsule machine with the powder mixture and attach it to a machine that can make 250 capsules in 10 minutes.
- Store the herbal zingiber officinale capsules in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
3. Curcuma longa
Turmeric capsules helps with menstrual cramps because of its unique compound, curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Curcumin works by reducing prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and lead to severe menstrual cramps. Additionally, turmeric's ability to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation helps alleviate cramping symptoms, providing relief from discomfort and pain associated with menstruation.
Regular consumption of turmeric capsules can significantly reduce menstrual cramp severity and frequency, making it a natural and effective solution for women seeking relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps alleviate menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing uterine muscles, thereby providing relief from pain and discomfort.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a demethoxy derivative of curcumin, contributes to the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of Curcuma longa, helping to reduce menstrual cramp severity.
- Tumerone: Tumerone, a sesquiterpene, possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in the reduction of menstrual cramp pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Rhyzomes: Curcuma longa rhyzomes are widely used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate menstrual cramps.
- Roots: Turmeric roots are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce menstrual cramp pain and promote overall women's health.
- Buds: Curcuma longa buds are another popular ingredient due to their high curcumin content and potential to reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest curcuma longa rhizomes when the tops begin to yellow and dry out naturally taking about 8-10 months.
- Clean and dry the rhizomes completely to ensure they are free from dirt and moisture taking 1-2 days.
- Grind the dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder at a temperature below 40°c.
- Mix the ground powder with a binding agent such as gelatin or vegetable cellulose in a ratio of 1:1.
- Fill the powder mixture into empty gelatin capsules and seal them immediately to preserve potency and freshness.
4. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile capsules helps with menstrual cramps because of its natural relaxant properties that soothe the uterine muscles, reducing spasms and pain.
The apigenin present in chamomile has a calming effect on the body, helping to ease anxiety and promote relaxation, which can alleviate stress-related menstrual cramps. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce swelling and inflammation in the pelvis, further minimizing discomfort and cramping associated with menstruation.
As a result, chamomile capsules provide effective natural relief from menstrual cramp symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid apigenin found in Matricaria chamomilla capsules helps with menstrual cramps by acting as a muscle relaxant and reducing inflammation in the uterus.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid luteolin present in Matricaria chamomilla capsules helps alleviate menstrual cramps by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances responsible for pain and inflammation.
- Alpha-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alpha-bisabolol in Matricaria chamomilla capsules helps to reduce menstrual cramps by acting as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, thereby reducing the severity of cramps and associated discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Flowers: Used for menstrual cramp relief due to their high concentration of apigenin and other flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Seeds: Utilized for their ability to stimulate digestion and alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms by regulating hormonal imbalances.
- Leaves: Employed for their calming and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe menstrual cramp discomfort and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers at dawn when the dew is still present on the petals.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle within 1 minute.
- Mix 250mg of the ground powder with 125mg of vegetable cellulose in a small bowl for capsule filling.
- Fill a capsule machine with the powder mixture and seal the capsules at a rate of 50 capsules per minute.
5. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint capsules helps with menstrual cramps because they contain menthol, a natural compound that relaxes muscles and reduces inflammation.
When taken orally, peppermint oil can help ease spasms and contractions in the uterus, providing relief from the intense pain associated with menstrual cramps.
Additionally, peppermint's calming effects on the digestive system can also help alleviate bloating and discomfort commonly experienced during menstruation, allowing women to feel more comfortable and relaxed throughout their periods.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Menthol: Menthol, a terpene found in peppermint, helps alleviate menstrual cramps by relaxing the smooth muscles in the uterus and reducing inflammation.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound found in peppermint, exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to ease menstrual cramp pain and reduce prostaglandin levels.
- Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene found in peppermint, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to reduce menstrual cramp pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Leaves: They contain high amounts of menthol and menthone, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
- Stems: They contain menthol and other compounds that help relax muscles, reduce pain, and ease menstrual cramp symptoms.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids and terpenes that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce menstrual cramp pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest 250g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers from a pesticide-free area.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer at 40°c for 2 days.
- Grind 100g of the dried plant material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 10g of the powder with 90g of vegetable cellulose and 10g of magnesium stearate.
- Fill 100 gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them immediately using a capsule filler machine.
6. Trifolium pratense
Red clover capsules helps with menstrual cramps because they contain isoflavones, a type of phytoestrogen that mimics the effects of estrogen in the body.
These isoflavones help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating menstrual cramp symptoms. Additionally, red clover's natural anti-inflammatory properties can also help to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and contribute to menstrual cramps.
By taking herbal red clover capsules, women may experience significant relief from menstrual cramp discomfort and improved overall well-being during their periods.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Isoflavones: These compounds have estrogenic properties that help balance hormonal fluctuations, which can contribute to menstrual cramps.
- Coumarins: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which may help alleviate menstrual cramp discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with menstrual cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make capsules for menstrual cramps due to their isoflavone content, which may help alleviate symptoms.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their isoflavone and coumarin content, which may help relax the uterine muscles and reduce pain.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their isoflavone content, specifically genistein and formononetin, which may help alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms by reducing prostaglandins.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest trifolium pratense flowers at peak bloom for optimal potency and drying time of 2-3 weeks.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Crush the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
- Mix 1 part of the powder with 2 parts of a natural binding agent such as gum arabic and 1 part of vegetable cellulose.
- Fill a capsule machine with the powder mixture and fill each capsule with 250 milligrams of the herbal material.
7. Angelica sinensis
Dong quai capsules helps with menstrual cramps because they contain a natural blend of herbs that work to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with menstruation.
The active ingredients in dong quai, such as ferulic acid and coumarins, have been shown to relax the uterine muscles, reducing contractions and spasms that cause cramping.
Additionally, the antispasmodic properties of dong quai help to reduce inflammation and promote blood flow, further contributing to its effectiveness in alleviating menstrual cramp discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica sinensis capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce menstrual pain and discomfort by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and free radicals that contribute to cramping.
- Ligustilide: A sesquiterpene lactone compound, ligustilide has a sedative effect on the uterus, helping to relax uterine muscles and reduce spasms that cause menstrual cramps.
- Butylphthalide: A sesquiterpene compound, butylphthalide has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce menstrual pain and discomfort by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins that contribute to cramping.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dong quai used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Roots: Rich in ferulic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
- Stems: Contain various bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and relax muscles, providing relief from menstrual cramps.
- Leaves: High in ferulic acid and other antioxidants, which help reduce prostaglandins that cause menstrual cramp pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dong quai for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest 30-50 grams of dried angelica sinensis root and clean it thoroughly to remove impurities.
- Grind the dried angelica sinensis root into a fine powder using a mill or grinder for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix the powder with 20-30 grams of cellulose powder or other capsule filler to achieve a consistent texture.
- Fill a capsule machine with the powder mixture and seal the capsules at a speed of 50-100 capsules per minute.
- Label and store the herbal angelica sinensis capsules in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
8. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian capsules helps with menstrual cramps because they contain valerenic acid, a compound that has natural relaxant properties.
This property allows it to calm the uterine muscles, reducing the severity and frequency of menstrual cramps. Additionally, valerian root is known for its ability to increase blood flow, which can help to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
As a result, women who take herbal valerian capsules may experience significant relief from menstrual cramp symptoms, allowing them to manage their monthly cycle with greater ease.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Isovaleric acid esters: They help with menstrual cramps by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, thereby alleviating muscle spasms and pain associated with menstrual cramps.
- Valerenic acid: It helps with menstrual cramps by acting on the nervous system to reduce inflammation and modulate pain pathways, leading to a decrease in menstrual cramp severity.
- Valeranone: It contributes to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of Valeriana officinalis, helping to reduce menstrual cramp pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of valerenic acids, which have a sedative effect and help alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
- Seeds: The seeds are sometimes used in combination with roots or rhizomes to enhance the sedative effect and provide additional relief from menstrual cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in its dormant stage.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 2 weeks at 50 degrees celsius.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with a binding agent such as gelatin and a small amount of water to form a thick paste.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the prepared paste using a capsule filler machine or a spoon and seal immediately.
9. Tanacetum parthenium
Feverfew capsules helps with menstrual cramps because they contain parthenolide, a natural compound that has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
This compound works to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine muscle contractions and lead to menstrual cramp discomfort. By inhibiting the production of these prostaglandins, feverfew capsules alleviate cramping symptoms, providing relief from pelvic pain, bloating, and mood swings associated with menstruation.
This natural remedy offers a safe and effective way to manage menstrual cramps without relying on medication or surgery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Parthenolide: A sesquiterpene lactone, parthenolide has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
- Thujone: A terpene, thujone has a sedative effect and can help relax the uterine muscles, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of menstrual cramps.
- Bornyl acetate: A terpene, bornyl acetate has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves of Tanacetum parthenium are the most commonly used part for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Flowers: The flowers are another key part used in Feverfew supplements due to their high concentration of parthenolide, a compound that helps to reduce menstrual cramp pain.
- Stems: The stems of Tanacetum parthenium are also used, although less commonly, for their medicinal properties and to provide a consistent supply of parthenolide.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic feverfew for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest 500g of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers at the peak of their potency.
- Crush the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 250g of the powder with 250g of vegetable cellulose in a large bowl.
- Add 50g of silica to the mixture and blend well for 5 minutes.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 500mg of the mixture and seal immediately.
10. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender capsules helps with menstrual cramps because they contain the essential oil of Lavandula angustifolia, which has a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.
When taken as a supplement, it can help to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps by relaxing muscles and improving blood flow. This calming agent also helps to balance hormones, reducing the production of prostaglandins that cause uterine contractions and ensuing pain.
By promoting relaxation and soothing discomfort, English lavender capsules provide natural relief from menstrual cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia capsules that help with menstrual cramps.
- Linalool: A terpene that helps alleviate menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing the uterine muscles, thereby providing pain relief.
- Linalyl acetate: Another terpene that contributes to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help in reducing the severity of menstrual cramps.
- Lavandulol: A terpene that exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing the uterine muscles and reducing menstrual pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make capsules for menstrual cramps.
- Flowers: Lavandula angustifolia flowers are commonly used to make capsules for menstrual cramps due to their high content of linalool and linalyl acetate, which have anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties.
- Leaves: Lavandula angustifolia leaves are another commonly used part for capsules, as they contain similar compounds to the flowers and are believed to help alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.
- Seeds: Lavandula angustifolia seeds are sometimes used to make capsules, although less commonly than flowers or leaves, due to their potential to provide a sustained release of bioactive compounds and a more subtle effect.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for menstrual cramps.
- Harvest 1 lb of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at the peak of bloom and dry them for 7 days.
- Grind 2 oz of dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds.
- Mix 1 part of the ground flowers with 1 part of gelatin in a bowl for 10 minutes.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the mixture using a capsule filling machine or a spoon for 30 minutes.
- Label and store the herbal capsules in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for menstrual cramps?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with menstrual cramps is a blend of cramp bark, ginger, and chasteberry.
Cramp bark helps to relax the uterine muscles, while ginger reduces inflammation and soothes the stomach. Chasteberry, also known as vitex, has a balancing effect on hormonal imbalances that can contribute to menstrual cramps.
This combination works together to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps, promoting a sense of calm and relief during the menstrual cycle.
What ailments similar to menstrual cramps are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to menstrual cramps that are treated with herbal capsules are headaches, migraines, and joint pain.
Capsules containing herbs like Willow bark, Feverfew, and Ginger help alleviate these conditions by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving blood circulation.
Additionally, herbs like Valerian root and Passionflower can help ease muscle tension and promote relaxation, providing relief from cramp-like symptoms in the body.