10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Menstrual Cramps

Herbal tinctures for menstrual cramps are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, flowers, and roots that have been traditionally used to alleviate period pain.

These natural remedies work by targeting inflammation, relaxing muscles, and regulating hormonal imbalances that contribute to menstrual cramps. Popular herbal tinctures include Cramp Bark, Dong Quai, and Chaste Tree Berry, which help reduce severity and frequency of cramps, allowing women to go about their daily lives with greater ease and comfort.

For example, a woman who suffers from severe period pain can use a combination of these tinctures to alleviate her symptoms, allowing her to exercise, work, and enjoy activities she normally avoids during her period.

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

1. Paeonia officinalis

Pink peony tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because of its unique ability to relax uterine muscles, reducing spasms and discomfort.

The herbal extract contains compounds like iridoid glycosides that have a natural anti-inflammatory effect on the uterus, helping to alleviate cramping and heaviness in the lower abdomen. Additionally, pink peony tinctures are believed to help regulate hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to menstrual cramp severity.

By using this natural remedy, women can find relief from the discomfort and pain associated with PMS.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia officinalis tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Isoquinoline alkaloids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help alleviate menstrual cramp pain by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals to the brain.
• Flavonoids: Paeoniflorin has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relax uterine muscles and reduce cramping associated with menstrual periods.
• Phenolic acids: Paeonol exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to its ability to ease menstrual cramp pain by reducing inflammation and blocking pain transmission.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pink peony used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of paeoniflorin, a key compound responsible for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: They are used as they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Flowers: They are used as they contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including paeoniflorin and glycosides, that help alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pink peony for menstrual cramps.

1. Harvest paeonia officinalis roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is dormant for optimal potency.
2. Dry the roots in a warm place protected from direct sunlight for several weeks to achieve proper crispness.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine them with 60 to 80 percent vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking to extract the active compounds.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container and store it in a cool dark place.

2. Angelica archangelica

Angelica tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because they contain a unique combination of compounds that have a profound impact on the body's natural pain-relieving processes.

The herb's essential oils and flavonoids work together to reduce inflammation, relax uterine muscles, and regulate hormone imbalances. As a result, herbal angelica tinctures provide effective relief from menstrual cramps, allowing women to manage their symptoms with greater ease and comfort.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe the physical and emotional discomfort associated with menstruation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Coumarins: Coumarins in Angelica archangelica tinctures help with menstrual cramps by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce pain and alleviate symptoms associated with cramps.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly ferulic acid and sinapic acid, found in Angelica archangelica tinctures may help alleviate menstrual cramps by modulating prostaglandin synthesis, which is involved in the contraction of uterine muscles that cause pain during menstruation.
• Furanocoumarins: Furanocoumarins, such as angelicin, present in Angelica archangelica tinctures may help with menstrual cramps by exerting antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help relax the uterine muscles and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Roots: The roots of Angelica archangelica are used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps because they contain compounds like ligustilide, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Angelica archangelica are used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps due to their content of sesquiterpenes, which have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Buds: The buds of Angelica archangelica are used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps because they contain flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, which help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh angelica archangelica roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces and dry them in a warm dry place or oven at low temperature.
3. Combine 200g of dried angelica archangelica roots with 500ml of high proof vodka or 70% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it every day for 2 weeks to allow the roots to infuse.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

3. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which work to ease uterine contractions and reduce pain.

The tannins present in licorice root also help to relax the smooth muscle lining of the uterus, further alleviating cramp severity. Additionally, licorice contains flavonoids, which have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to menstrual cramping.

By targeting multiple factors contributing to menstrual pain, herbal licorice tinctures offer a natural and effective solution for managing cramps.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Glycyrrhizin: It helps alleviate menstrual cramps by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and pain.
• Flavonoids: These compounds help to relax the uterine muscles, reducing the frequency and severity of menstrual cramps.
• Saponins: Saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds like glycyrrhizin, which help alleviate pain and discomfort.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps because they have antispasmodic properties that help relax uterine muscles and reduce cramping.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps because they contain flavonoids and saponins that help reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 kilograms of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in late summer or early fall.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces and combine them with 70% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
3. Steep the mixture in a glass jar for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container and discard the solids.
5. Filter the tincture through a 0.2-micron filter and transfer it to dark glass bottles for storage.

4. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because it contains mucilage, a soothing gel-like substance that coats the uterine lining and reduces inflammation.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to ease pelvic pain and discomfort associated with menstruation. The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help to relax uterine muscle contractions, providing relief from cramping and spasms.

Additionally, marshmallow's demulcent properties calm the digestive system, alleviating bloating and abdominal discomfort often experienced during menstrual cycles.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help to soothe and calm the uterine muscles, reducing inflammation and spasms that cause menstrual cramps.
• Althaea officinalis triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce pain associated with menstrual cramps.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and swelling associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are commonly used due to their high concentration of mucilages, which provide anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant are used to create tinctures that help alleviate menstrual cramps due to their rich content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds.
• Flowers: The flowers of Althaea officinalis are sometimes used to create tinctures that help with menstrual discomfort due to their gentle anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh althaea officinalis roots and clean them thoroughly to avoid contamination.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces weighing approximately 25 grams for a standard batch.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 50 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for six to eight weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container and discard the solids.

5. Viburnum opulus

Guelder rose tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because its natural compounds, including alkaloids and flavonoids, have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These compounds work to relax uterine muscles, reducing spasms and pain associated with menstruation. Additionally, guelder rose's tannins help to reduce bleeding and ease PMS symptoms like bloating and mood swings.

As a result, herbal guelder rose tinctures provide natural relief from menstrual cramps, allowing women to manage their discomfort and enjoy a more comfortable period.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viburnum opulus tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Oleanolic acid: This triterpenoid saponin helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause muscle contractions and pain.
• Viburnin: This phenolic glycoside has a spasmolytic effect, meaning it can help to relax smooth muscle and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.
• Quercetin: As a flavonoid, quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of guelder rose used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of salicin, a compound similar to aspirin that helps to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Fruits: The fruits are used due to their high salicin content and other bioactive compounds that help to alleviate menstrual cramps and other symptoms.
• Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including salicin, that help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic guelder rose for menstrual cramps.

1. Harvest 100g of viburnum opulus flowers and leaves in the summer months when they are in full bloom.
2. Dry the harvested plant material at room temperature for 2-3 weeks to prevent spoilage and preserve potency.
3. Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
4. Mix 100g of the ground plant material with 500ml of vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:5 ratio.
5. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it daily to facilitate extraction and tincture formation.

6. Piper methysticum

Kava tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because its active compounds, kavalactones, have a potent relaxing effect on the uterine muscles.

This reduces inflammation and spasms that cause cramping, providing relief from discomfort and pain. Additionally, kava's calming properties can help to alleviate anxiety and stress associated with menstruation, allowing women to feel more relaxed and comfortable during their period.

By promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension, herbal kava tinctures offer a natural and effective solution for managing menstrual cramp symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Kavain: Kavain has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.
• Dihydrokavain: Dihydrokavain is a GABA receptor agonist, which can help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce menstrual cramping.
• Yonggin: Yonggin has a sedative effect and can help to reduce anxiety and stress, which are often associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: Underground stems that store nutrients and have medicinal properties.
• Leaves: Leaves: Rich in bioactive compounds, which help alleviate pain and relax muscles.
• Roots: Roots: Contain bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh piper methysticum leaves and stems in the morning after sunrise.
2. Chop the harvested leaves and stems into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar.
3. Pour 40-60% ethanol over the chopped piper methysticum to cover the plant material in a ratio of 5:1.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking of the jar.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate clean glass container.

7. Turnera diffusa

Damiana tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because they possess a unique blend of botanical compounds that work in harmony to alleviate discomfort.

The herb contains apigenin, which binds to estrogen receptors, reducing inflammation and relaxing uterine muscles. Additionally, damiana's flavonoids and terpenes have a sedative effect on the nervous system, calming muscle spasms and soothing cramps.

As a result, users often report significant relief from menstrual pain, allowing them to manage their symptoms naturally and comfortably throughout their period.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Turnera diffusa tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds, specifically ferulic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate menstrual cramps and improve overall menstrual health.
• Tannins: Tannins in Turnera diffusa tinctures have been shown to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce menstrual pain and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of damiana used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
• Roots: They are used because they contain sesquiterpenes and other compounds that help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
• Stems: They are used due to their high content of glycosides and other compounds that have a relaxing effect on the uterine muscles and help to alleviate menstrual cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh turnera diffusa leaves and stems in the morning when dew is still present.
2. Chop the turnera diffusa plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife and weigh 1 cup.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

8. Artemisia absinthium

Wormwood tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because its bioactive compounds, such as thujone and sesquiterpenoids, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

These compounds work to reduce uterine contractions and relax the smooth muscle lining of the uterus, thereby alleviating cramping and discomfort associated with menstruation. Additionally, wormwood's antioxidant activity helps to neutralize prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to menstrual cramp severity.

By reducing inflammation and relaxing the uterine muscle, wormwood tinctures provide natural relief from menstrual cramps, allowing women to manage their symptoms more effectively.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Thujone: Thujone has a spasmolytic effect, which means it helps to relax the uterine muscles and reduce cramping associated with menstrual periods.
• Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate pain and reduce swelling associated with menstrual cramps.
• Cineole: Cineole has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and relax the uterine muscles, providing relief from menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly thujone, which has been traditionally used to relieve menstrual cramps and other symptoms associated with PMS.
• Stems: They are used as they contain a higher concentration of sesquiterpenes, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
• Flowers: They are used due to their high content of essential oils and flavonoids, which may help to reduce menstrual cramp pain and alleviate other symptoms associated with PMS.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25g of fresh or 50g of dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers on a dry sunny day.
2. Chop the plant material into smaller pieces to increase its surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 50% ethanol by volume in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain and discard the solids then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight lid.

9. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because it contains a unique compound called anethole, which has a natural ability to relax the uterine muscles and reduce spasms that cause cramping.

Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with menstruation.

As the tincture is absorbed into the bloodstream, it works quickly to provide fast relief from menstrual cramps, making it an effective natural remedy for women seeking a holistic approach to managing their symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Anethole: Anethole is a terpene that acts as a smooth muscle relaxant, which can help alleviate menstrual cramps by reducing uterine spasms.
• Foeniculin: Foeniculin is an estragole derivative with antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease menstrual cramp pain and reduce inflammation in the uterus.
• Apigenin: Apigenin is a flavonoid with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of menstrual cramps by inhibiting pain transmission and reducing inflammation in the uterus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Seeds: They are used due to their anise-like flavor and ability to ease digestive discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
• Leaves: They are used for their carminative properties, helping to reduce bloating and gas that can contribute to menstrual cramp discomfort.
• Roots: They are used due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate menstrual cramp pain and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 100g of foeniculum vulgare roots and stems and clean them thoroughly in cold running water.
2. Combine the cleaned foeniculum vulgare with 500ml of 45% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for steeping and infusion.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Label and store the foeniculum vulgare tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

10. Rumex crispus

Curly dock tinctures helps with menstrual cramps because it contains a unique blend of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthraquinones.

These compounds have been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate the severity and duration of menstrual cramps. The tincture's ability to relax uterine muscles and reduce prostaglandin production also helps to ease cramping and discomfort associated with menstruation.

By taking curly dock tinctures, women may experience significant relief from their menstrual cramp symptoms and improved overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rumex crispus tinctures that help with menstrual cramps.

• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Rumex crispus tinctures, such as ferulic and caffeic acid, help with menstrual cramps by acting as potent anti-inflammatory agents, reducing prostaglandin production and subsequent smooth muscle contraction that causes pain.
• Tannins: Tannins present in Rumex crispus tinctures help with menstrual cramps by exerting astringent and anti-inflammatory effects, thereby reducing uterine contractions and alleviating discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
• Coumarins: Coumarins, including scopoletin, in Rumex crispus tinctures help with menstrual cramps by exhibiting analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of curly dock used to make tinctures for menstrual cramps.

• Leaves: They are rich in salicylic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
• Roots: The roots of Rumex crispus contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce cramp severity.
• Stems: The stems of Rumex crispus contain salicylic acid and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramp pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curly dock for menstrual cramps.

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of rumex crispus roots in the autumn when the plant is mature and dry.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter to release their oils.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 80-proof rum in a ratio of 1:5 to create the tincture base.
4. Steep the mixture in a glass jar with a lid for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the solids.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for menstrual cramps?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with menstrual cramps is often a blend of Dong Quai, Ginger, and Willow Bark.

Dong Quai is known to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce cramps, while Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that eases pain and soothes the uterus. Willow Bark, a natural source of salicylic acid, has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that further alleviate cramps and discomfort.

This combination can be taken internally to provide relief from menstrual cramps and promote a healthier menstrual cycle.

What ailments similar to menstrual cramps are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to menstrual cramps that are treated with herbal tinctures are endometriosis, fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease.

Herbs like ginger, turmeric, and chasteberry have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with these conditions. Tinctures made from these herbs can be taken internally or applied topically to provide relief from cramps, bloating, and other symptoms.

Additionally, herbal tinctures such as cramp bark and black cohosh may also help to ease muscle spasms and tension.