By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Period Cramps
Herbal capsules for period cramps are a natural supplement designed to alleviate menstrual discomfort and pain.
These capsules contain herbal extracts such as chamomile, ginger, and turmeric, which work together to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, providing relief from cramping. For example, capsules containing chasteberry have been shown to decrease the severity of PMS symptoms, including cramps, while capsules with Dong Quai help to regulate hormonal imbalances that can contribute to crampiness.
By taking these capsules, women can experience significant reduction in period pain, allowing them to live their lives more comfortably and confidently.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for period cramps, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Angelica sinensis
- 2. Zingiber officinale
- 3. Curcuma longa
- 4. Salix alba
- 5. Valeriana officinalis
- 6. Viburnum opulus
- 7. Passiflora incarnata
- 8. Trifolium pratense
- 9. Caulophyllum thalictroides
- 10. Chamaelirium luteum
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for period cramps?
- What ailments similar to period cramps are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Angelica sinensis
Dong quai capsules helps with period cramps because they contain the root of the Chinese angelica plant, which has been used for centuries to alleviate menstrual discomfort.
The capsules work by stimulating blood flow and reducing inflammation in the uterine lining, helping to ease cramping and spasms. Additionally, dong quai's natural estrogen-balancing properties can help regulate hormonal fluctuations that contribute to cramps.
By promoting relaxation and soothing the muscles, dong quai capsules provide a natural and effective way to alleviate period pain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica sinensis capsules that help with period cramps.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help reduce inflammation and alleviate period cramps by modulating the body's immune response and releasing anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Ligustilide: A sesquiterpene lactone found in Angelica sinensis, ligustilide has a relaxing effect on smooth muscles, which helps to ease menstrual cramps and spasms.
- Butylphthalide: A phenolic compound in Angelica sinensis, butylphthalide has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve period cramps by reducing prostaglandin production and inhibiting pain transmission.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dong quai used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Roots: They are rich in ferulic acid and other compounds that help in reducing inflammation and pain.
- Rhyzomes: They contain coumarin, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help in relieving menstrual cramps.
- Seeds: They are a good source of ferulic acid and other bioactive compounds that help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dong quai for period cramps.
- Harvest 30 to 60 grams of dried angelica sinensis roots and clean them thoroughly.
- Crush the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 15 minutes.
- Mix 10 grams of the powder with 10 grams of cornstarch or gelatin to form a uniform blend.
- Fill empty gelatin or vegetarian capsules with 250 to 500 milligrams of the powder blend.
- Store the capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two years.
2. Zingiber officinale
Ginger capsules help with period cramps because of their natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and subsequent pain during menstruation.
By blocking these contractions, ginger capsules can help alleviate cramping, bloating, and discomfort associated with PMS, allowing women to manage their symptoms more effectively and enjoy a greater sense of relief and comfort during this time.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with period cramps.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate period cramp pain by reducing inflammation and blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals in the body.
- Shogaols: These ginger-derived compounds have a similar effect to gingerols and also exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to ease period cramp pain and discomfort.
- Volatile oils: These compounds have a relaxing effect on the uterus and can help reduce muscle spasms, leading to a decrease in period cramp intensity and duration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are used to make capsules for period cramps due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for period cramps.
- Harvest 100g of dried zingiber officinale roots and store them in an airtight container for later use.
- Grind 50g of the dried roots into a fine powder using a spice grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 20g of the powder with 20g of starch and 10g of vegetable cellulose in a bowl.
- Use a capsule machine to fill 100 empty capsules with the powder mixture in 10 minutes.
- Label 50 of the capsules as 500mg zingiber officinale capsules and store them in a cool dry place.
3. Curcuma longa
Turmeric capsules helps with period cramps because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce prostaglandins in the body.
Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and subsequent cramping during menstruation. The active compound curcumin in turmeric capsules blocks the production of these prostaglandins, thus alleviating cramp severity and frequency.
Additionally, turmeric's natural analgesic properties also help to soothe and calm the muscles, providing relief from painful menstrual cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with period cramps.
- Curcumin: Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help to alleviate menstrual cramp pain by reducing prostaglandin production and inhibiting inflammatory pathways.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps, providing relief from pain and discomfort.
- Turmerone: Turmerone is a sesquiterpene that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are widely used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate period cramps.
- Roots: Roots contain a significant amount of curcumin and other bioactive compounds, making them a popular choice for period cramp relief capsules.
- Leaves: Leaves are also used due to their high content of curcumin and other flavonoids that contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for period cramps.
- Dry 2 kg of curcuma longa rootlets in a dehydrator at 50°c for 12 hours to remove excess moisture.
- Grind 500g of the dried rootlets into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 200g of the powder with 100g of gelatin and 50g of glycerin to form a uniform blend.
- Fill 100 empty capsules with 500mg of the blend and seal them immediately using a capsule sealer.
- Label and store the capsules in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
4. Salix alba
White willow capsules helps with period cramps because they contain salicin, a natural pain-relieving compound similar to aspirin.
This active ingredient works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, hormones that cause uterine contractions and lead to cramping during menstruation.
By reducing these contractions, white willow capsules can help alleviate the severity and frequency of period cramps, allowing women to experience relief from discomfort and pain associated with their menstrual cycle.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba capsules that help with period cramps.
- Salicin: Salicin has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as salicortin and salidroside, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce menstrual cramp severity.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as ursolic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps, and also protect against oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Barks: The barks are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help in reducing menstrual cramp pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are used as they contain salicylic acid, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with period cramps.
- Stems: The stems are used for their flavonoid content, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe menstrual cramp pain and reduce oxidative stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for period cramps.
- Harvest 500g of salix alba bark from mature trees in a clean environment during the winter months.
- Dry the harvested bark in a well-ventilated area at 50°c for 2 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried salix alba bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 15 minutes.
- Mix 1 part of the powder with 2 parts of gelatin and add 100ml of distilled water to create a uniform mixture.
- Fill 100 capsule shells with the mixture using an automatic capsule filler and seal with a machine.
5. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian capsules helps with period cramps because they contain valerenic acid, a natural compound that relaxes the uterine muscles and reduces inflammation.
This helps to ease menstrual cramp discomfort by reducing the frequency and severity of contractions. Additionally, valerian has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that can cause cramping.
By taking valerian capsules, women may experience a significant reduction in period pain, allowing them to feel more comfortable and relaxed during their menstrual cycle.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis capsules that help with period cramps.
- Valerenic acid: This terpenoid is a primary sedative constituent in Valeriana officinalis, helping to alleviate period cramps by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
- Valeranone: A sesquiterpene in Valeriana officinalis, valeranone contributes to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing menstrual cramp pain.
- Isovaleric acid: As a short-chain fatty acid, isovaleric acid has been found to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help in relieving period cramps by reducing pain and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Roots: The roots are rich in valerenic acid and valeranone, which are known for their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate cramps and other menstrual symptoms.
- Rhyzomes: Similar to the roots, the rhyzomes contain valerenic acid and other compounds that contribute to the herb's analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for period cramps.
- Seeds: The seeds of Valeriana officinalis contain valeranone and other bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used to treat menstrual cramps, anxiety, and insomnia.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for period cramps.
- Gather 250 grams of dried valeriana root and 250 grams of vegetable cellulose capsules in a clean environment.
- Weigh and mix 50 grams of dried valeriana root with 200 grams of vegetable cellulose powder in a bowl.
- Add 20 milliliters of glycerin and 10 milliliters of distilled water to the valeriana root mixture to facilitate blending.
- Blend the mixture using a high-speed homogenizer for 10 minutes to achieve a uniform consistency.
- Fill the vegetable cellulose capsules with the blended valeriana mixture using a capsule filler machine.
6. Viburnum opulus
Guelder rose capsules helps with period cramps because of its unique blend of natural ingredients, which work together to reduce inflammation and relax uterine muscles.
The capsules contain a concentrated extract of guelder rose berries, which have been traditionally used to alleviate menstrual discomfort. Additionally, the presence of antioxidants in the formula helps to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate cramping symptoms, providing relief from abdominal pain, bloating, and other associated symptoms.
As a result, herbal guelder rose capsules offer a natural and effective solution for managing period cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viburnum opulus capsules that help with period cramps.
- Viburnin: A flavonoid glycoside, Viburnin has anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate menstrual cramp pain by reducing prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions.
- Oleanolic acid: A triterpenoid saponin, Oleanolic acid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to its potential in relieving menstrual cramp pain by blocking pain receptors in the body.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, Quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce menstrual cramp pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis and reducing inflammation in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of guelder rose used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Fruits: The fruits of Viburnum opulus are used to make capsules for period cramps due to their reported ability to reduce menstrual pain and cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves of Viburnum opulus are used to make capsules for period cramps due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate menstrual cramps.
- Barks: The barks of Viburnum opulus are used to make capsules for period cramps due to their reported ability to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, which may help alleviate menstrual pain and cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic guelder rose for period cramps.
- Collect fresh or dried leaves and flowers of viburnum opulus in sufficient quantities for the project.
- Dry the collected plant material in a low-temperature oven at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1 part of the ground plant powder with 2 parts of a natural filler like cornstarch and fill gelatin capsules.
- Store the finished capsules in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 years.
7. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop capsules helps with period cramps because they contain the extract of Passiflora incarnata, a natural herb that has been used for centuries to alleviate menstrual discomfort.
The herb's flavonoids and alkaloids work together to relax uterine muscles, reducing cramp severity and frequency. Additionally, maypop's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause muscle contractions during menstruation.
By targeting these underlying mechanisms, maypop capsules provide natural relief from period cramps, allowing women to manage their symptoms and feel more comfortable during their menstrual cycle.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata capsules that help with period cramps.
- Harman alkaloids: These compounds have been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help to alleviate menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Isoorientin: This flavonoid has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may contribute to its potential in relieving menstrual cramp symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves of Passiflora incarnata are used to make capsules for period cramps because they contain flavonoids and alkaloids that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots of Passiflora incarnata are used to make capsules for period cramps because they have been found to have sedative and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Fruits: The fruits of Passiflora incarnata are used to make capsules for period cramps because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for period cramps.
- Dry the passiflora incarnata flowers by spreading them on a paper bag in a low temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Crush the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 1 gram of the passiflora incarnata powder with 1 gram of gelatin in a small bowl for 5 minutes.
- Add 5 milliliters of distilled water to the mixture and stir it for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into empty gelatin capsules and seal them tightly for 5 minutes.
8. Trifolium pratense
Red clover capsules helps with period cramps because they contain isoflavones, which have a natural ability to relax uterine muscles and reduce inflammation.
The isoflavones in red clover also mimic the body's own estrogen, helping to regulate hormonal imbalances that can contribute to menstrual cramp severity. Additionally, red clover has been shown to inhibit prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and amplify period pain.
By addressing these underlying causes, red clover capsules provide effective relief from debilitating period cramps, allowing women to manage their symptoms naturally and comfortably.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense capsules that help with period cramps.
- Isoflavones: Isoflavones, particularly formononetin and genistein, in red clover may help alleviate period cramps by acting as a natural estrogen and promoting relaxation of uterine muscles.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including kaempferol and quercetin, in red clover may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with period cramps by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Coumarins: Coumarins, such as coumarin and scopoletin, in red clover may help alleviate period cramps by acting as a natural pain reliever and antispasmodic, which can help relax uterine muscles and reduce pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Roots: Rich in isoflavones, which help to reduce estrogen-related symptoms and alleviate menstrual cramps.
- Leaves: Contain isoflavones and other compounds that help to regulate hormonal balance and reduce menstrual discomfort.
- Seeds: High in isoflavones and other nutrients that help to alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), including cramps and mood swings.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for period cramps.
- Harvest 100g of dried trifolium pratense flowers by cutting them at the peak of their potency.
- Dry the trifolium pratense flowers in a low-temperature oven at 50c for 2 hours.
- Grind 50g of the dried trifolium pratense flowers into a fine powder using a mortar.
- Mix 1g of the ground trifolium pratense powder with 1g of vegetable cellulose as a capsule filler.
- Fill 20 empty capsules with the trifolium pratense mixture and seal them immediately to preserve freshness.
9. Caulophyllum thalictroides
Blue cohosh capsules helps with period cramps because they contain compounds that have a natural ability to relax uterine muscles, reducing spasms and cramping.
The herbal remedy also has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps. Additionally, blue cohosh contains flavonoids and saponins which have been shown to improve blood flow and reduce prostaglandin levels, contributing to a reduction in period cramp severity.
By addressing the underlying physiological processes, blue cohosh capsules can provide natural relief from debilitating menstrual cramps.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Caulophyllum thalictroides capsules that help with period cramps.
- Isoferulic acid: Isoferulic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with menstrual cramps.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids present in Caulophyllum thalictroides have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relieve pain and discomfort during menstrual periods.
- Phenolic glycosides: Phenolic glycosides in Caulophyllum thalictroides have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, helping to reduce menstrual cramp severity and frequency.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of blue cohosh used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of caulosaponins, which are believed to help reduce menstrual pain.
- Seeds: The seeds are also used, as they contain similar compounds to the roots and may provide relief from period cramps.
- Leaves: The leaves of Caulophyllum thalictroides contain flavonoids and other compounds that may contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate menstrual discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blue cohosh for period cramps.
- Gather dried caulophyllum thalictroides root and stems weighing 1-2 grams.
- Grind the dried caulophyllum thalictroides root and stems into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 1 gram of the powdered caulophyllum thalictroides with 1/2 gram of cellulose powder in a small bowl.
- Fill 00 gelatin capsules with the herbal mixture using a capsule filler for 10 minutes.
- Seal the capsules using a capsule sealer and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
10. Chamaelirium luteum
Blazing Star Capsules helps with period cramps because they contain a unique blend of herbs, including Lamiaceae species, that work to alleviate muscle contractions in the uterus.
The capsules also contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine cramping. Additionally, the herbal formula relaxes smooth muscles and calms nervous tension, further reducing menstrual discomfort.
By addressing the root causes of period cramps, Blazing Star Capsules provide effective relief from crampy abdominal pain, bloating, and mood swings associated with PMS.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Chamaelirium luteum capsules that help with period cramps.
- Isoferulic acid: Helps with period cramps by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce prostaglandin production and alleviate pain.
- Furostanol saponins: Helps with period cramps by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation during menstruation.
- Phenolic acids: Helps with period cramps by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce pain and discomfort associated with period cramps.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of blazing star used to make capsules for period cramps.
- Roots: The roots are used to make capsules for period cramps due to their high concentration of berberine and other alkaloids that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are used to make capsules for period cramps due to their high content of flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to alleviate cramping and other symptoms associated with PMS.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blazing star for period cramps.
- Harvest chamaelirium luteum roots and rhizomes in late summer or early fall when they are mature and dry.
- Dry the harvested chamaelirium luteum roots and rhizomes in a warm well-ventilated area for 2 weeks.
- Grind 10 grams of dried chamaelirium luteum roots and rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powdered chamaelirium luteum with 20 grams of gelatin and 20 ml of distilled water to create a uniform mixture.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the chamaelirium luteum mixture and store them in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for period cramps?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with period cramps is a blend of Ginger, Turmeric, and Cramp Bark.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain and nausea, while Turmeric's curcumin helps to alleviate cramps and bloating. Cramp Bark, a natural muscle relaxant, soothes uterine contractions. Taking a balanced dose of these herbal capsules together may help to alleviate period cramps, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being.
Consult a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.
What ailments similar to period cramps are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to period cramps that are treated with herbal capsules are endometriosis, menorrhagia, and dysmenorrhea.
Herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and willow bark have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms like pelvic pain, bloating, and discomfort associated with these conditions.
Additionally, herbs like chamomile and passionflower can help soothe anxiety and stress related to menstrual issues.