10 Best Herbal Creams For Period Cramps

Herbal creams for period cramps are topical products infused with plant extracts that help alleviate menstrual cramp discomfort.

They work by reducing inflammation and relaxing the uterine muscles, providing fast relief from cramps.

Examples of effective herbal creams include clary sage, ginger, and peppermint-infused products, which have been shown to improve lives by reducing pain, promoting relaxation, and enhancing overall well-being, allowing women to manage their menstrual cycles with greater ease and confidence.

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

1. Artemisia absinthium

Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, creams helps with period cramps because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The active compounds present in wormwood, such as absinthin and thujone, have been traditionally used to relieve menstrual pain and discomfort. These compounds work by reducing inflammation in the uterine muscles and blocking the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause pain and cramping.

As a result, wormwood creams can provide natural relief from period cramps, allowing women to manage their symptoms more effectively.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thujone: Thujone has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate period cramps by reducing inflammation and relaxing uterine muscles.
• Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid is a phenolic compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
• Artemisinin: Artemisinin is a sesquiterpene lactone with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and relax uterine muscles, leading to relief from period cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make creams for period cramps.

• Leaves: Rich in thujone, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate cramp pain.
• Flowers: Contain flavonoids and terpenoids that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, providing relief from menstrual cramps.
• Stems: Similar to leaves, stems contain thujone, which may help to relax muscles and reduce cramp severity.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of dried artemisia absinthium flowers and leaves from a clean area with a sterile knife.
2. Infuse 2 cups of oil such as sweet almond oil with the dried herb in a double boiler for 4 hours.
3. Strain the oil mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
4. Mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of the infused oil in a double boiler until the beeswax melts.
5. Pour the cooled mixture into a clean container and let it set at room temperature for 2 hours.

2. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with period cramps because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, work together to reduce inflammation and block pain signals to the brain. This results in a decrease in pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.

Additionally, sage's antispasmodic properties help to relax the uterine muscles, further alleviating cramping and promoting a sense of relief and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with period cramps.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
• Salvianolic acid b: This polyphenol has potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate inflammation and pain in the uterus during menstrual cramps.
• Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps, as well as improve overall menstrual health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for period cramps.

• Leaves: They are rich in salvene and rosmarinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Roots: They contain salvianolic acid, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25g of salvia officinalis leaves and flowers at the peak of their potency and dry them thoroughly in a warm place for 2 weeks.
2. Combine the dried salvia officinalis with 100g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 20 minutes while stirring occasionally until the beeswax and coconut oil are fully incorporated.
4. Remove the double boiler from the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes before adding 10g of vitamin e oil and 5g of aloe vera gel.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool completely at room temperature for 30 minutes before use.

3. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with period cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause pain and discomfort during menstruation. By applying ginger cream to the lower abdomen, it can help relax the uterine muscles and alleviate cramps, allowing women to find relief from the discomfort associated with period cramps.

This natural remedy can provide a much-needed respite during this time.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with period cramps.

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpenoid compounds are responsible for ginger's anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce prostaglandins and alleviate cramp pain associated with menstruation.
• Shogaols: These sesquiterpenoid compounds are also present in ginger, and they have been found to have potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help relieve menstrual cramp pain.
• Curcumin: A phenolic compound found in ginger, curcumin has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which can help reduce menstrual cramp pain and alleviate associated symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for period cramps.

• Rhyzomes: Extracts from the rhyzomes contain compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate period cramps.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used to make creams that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps due to their high gingerol content.
• Buds: Ginger buds are used to create creams that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to ease menstrual cramp pain.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse the dried roots in 2 cups of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to create a strong herbal decoction.
2. Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
3. Combine 1 cup of shea butter and 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of the herbal decoction to the shea butter and coconut oil mixture and stir well.
5. Whip the mixture until it thickens and becomes a smooth, creamy texture taking about 10 minutes.

4. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, creams helps with period cramps because of its unique ability to interact with the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms.

The herb contains flavonoids and alkaloids that have a sedative and antispasmodic effect, which can help to ease muscle cramps and spasms associated with menstrual cramps. Additionally, Passiflora incarnata creams may help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, further contributing to its relief of period cramps and associated discomfort.

This natural remedy can be a welcome alternative to traditional pain relievers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata creams that help with period cramps.

• Harmane: A tryptamine alkaloid, harmane has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain caused by menstrual cramps.
• Isoorientin: A flavonoid glycoside, isoorientin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps, and also exhibit a sedative effect to reduce stress and anxiety.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make creams for period cramps.

• Leaves: Used due to their flavonoid and alkaloid content, which are believed to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Used for their rich content of flavonoids and alkaloids, which are thought to help alleviate period cramps and other symptoms associated with PMS.
• Fruits: Used due to their high content of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, which can help in relaxing muscles and reducing cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-40 grams of dried passiflora incarnata flowers in late summer or early fall.
2. Steep the dried flowers in 100 milliliters of carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
4. Add 5-7 milliliters of beeswax and 5-7 milliliters of candelilla wax to the mixture and heat until melted.
5. Pour the mixture into small tin containers and let it cool and solidify completely.

5. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, creams helps with period cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The cinnamon oil present in these creams reduces prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause the uterus to contract, leading to pain and discomfort during menstruation. By applying topical creams, the body absorbs the cinnamon oil, which helps to relax the uterine muscles, providing relief from cramps and other menstrual symptoms.

Regular use may also help to reduce menstrual pain over time.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum creams that help with period cramps.

• Cinnamaldehyde: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
• Cinnamic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to period cramps.
• Coumarin: This phenolic compound has a mild analgesic effect and may help in reducing pain perception, thereby providing relief from menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make creams for period cramps.

• Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, particularly eugenol, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate cramps and discomfort.
• Barks: Cinnamon bark contains cinnamaldehyde, which has been traditionally used to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
• Buds: The buds of Cinnamomum verum are rich in essential oils with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them a potential ingredient in creams for period cramp relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for period cramps.

1. Infuse cinnamomum verum bark in 2 cups of distilled water for 30 minutes at 100 degrees fahrenheit.
2. Strain the infusion and mix it with 1/2 cup of aloe vera gel and 1/4 cup of beeswax pellets.
3. Melt the beeswax in a double boiler for 10 minutes while gently stirring the mixture.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil and 1 teaspoon of cetyl alcohol to the melted beeswax mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into glass containers and store them in a cool dark place for 24 hours.

6. Vaccinium macrocarpon

Vaccinium macrocarpon, also known as highbush cranberry, creams helps with period cramps because it contains anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds help to reduce inflammation and pain in the uterus, thereby alleviating cramps. Additionally, the high antioxidant content in Vaccinium macrocarpon creams may also help to regulate hormonal imbalances that can contribute to period cramps, promoting a more comfortable and manageable menstrual experience.

It is often used as an alternative remedy to traditional pain-relievers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon creams that help with period cramps.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the severity of period cramps by soothing the uterine muscles and reducing inflammation.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, quercetin may help alleviate period cramps by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions.
• Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce the severity of period cramps by inhibiting the production of pain-producing chemicals in the body.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make creams for period cramps.

• Leaves: Used due to their tannin content, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramps.
• Fruits: Used due to their anthocyanin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce period cramps.
• Leaves: Used also due to their flavonoid content, which has antioxidant properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for period cramps.

1. Harvest 100g of vaccinium macrocarpon berries and dry them in a dehydrator at 45c for 8 hours.
2. Combine the dried berries with 200ml of distilled water and 10g of beeswax in a saucepan.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes while stirring occasionally to create a smooth paste.
4. Add 20g of vitamin e oil and 10g of shea butter to the paste and mix until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a double boiler and let it cool and thicken for 2 hours.

7. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with period cramps because of its natural sedative and pain-relieving properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, work together to relax the uterine muscles and reduce inflammation, providing fast and effective relief from menstrual cramps.

Additionally, valerian creams often contain other soothing ingredients like lavender and chamomile, which promote relaxation and calmness, helping to alleviate period-related discomfort and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with period cramps.

• Isovaleric acid: This organic acid helps alleviate period cramps by acting as a natural analgesic, reducing pain perception in the body.
• Valerenic acid: A sesquiterpene derivative, valerenic acid exhibits sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relax the uterus, reducing menstrual cramp severity and duration.
• Valerenol: A valerenol is a valerenic acid isomer that has been shown to have a potent anxiolytic effect and relax muscles, which helps to alleviate menstrual cramp pain and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for period cramps.

• Roots: Valerian root is commonly used due to its high concentration of valerenic acids and valeranone, which are believed to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Valerian leaves are sometimes used, although less frequently than roots or rhizomes, due to their lower content of active compounds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse 50g of dried valeriana officinalis root in 500ml of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
2. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh into a clean glass container.
3. Mix 20g of beeswax with 10g of coconut oil in a double boiler set over low heat.
4. Combine the infused liquid with the melted wax mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into glass jars and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature.

8. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with period cramps because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream contains apigenin, an active compound that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, producing a calming effect and reducing pain perception. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties help to relax the uterine muscles, reducing cramping and discomfort associated with menstruation.

This natural remedy provides relief and comfort for women experiencing period cramps, allowing them to manage their symptoms and maintain their daily activities.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with period cramps.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps alleviate period cramps by reducing prostaglandin levels and modulating pain perception.
• Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which helps relieve period cramps by relaxing uterine muscle contractions and reducing inflammation.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps alleviate period cramps by reducing prostaglandin levels, modulating pain perception, and protecting against oxidative stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for period cramps.

• Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to ease menstrual cramp pain.
• Leaves: Used for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce cramping.
• Seeds: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and ease menstrual cramp pain.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of dried flowers and leaves of matricaria chamomilla on a sunny morning at 8am.
2. Steam distill the harvested matricaria chamomilla for 2 hours to obtain 50ml of essential oil.
3. Mix 50g of beeswax with 50g of shea butter and 20ml of sweet almond oil in a double boiler at 180°f.
4. Add 10ml of the steam-distilled essential oil and 5 drops of vitamin e oil to the melted mixture.
5. Pour the cooled mixture into a container and store it in a cool dry place for 2 days.

9. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with period cramps because of its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

The cream contains compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids, which work to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and lead to cramping. Additionally, stinging nettle has natural relaxant properties, helping to calm the uterine muscles and alleviate menstrual discomfort.

As a result, many women find relief from period cramps and discomfort when using Urtica dioica creams.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with period cramps.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Urtica dioica creams, particularly quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce prostaglandin production, which contributes to period cramp pain.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate period cramp pain by inhibiting the production of pain-causing chemicals in the body.
• Alkaloids: While the effects of alkaloids in Urtica dioica are less understood, histamine and other minor alkaloids may have a role in reducing inflammation and modulating neurotransmitter activity, which could contribute to pain relief during periods.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for period cramps.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Urtica dioica for period cramp relief due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds such as histamine and polyphenols.
• Roots: Roots are used for their diuretic properties, which help to reduce water retention and alleviate cramping associated with menstrual cycles.
• Stems: Stems of Urtica dioica are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and other anti-inflammatory compounds that help to soothe and calm menstrual cramps.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for period cramps.

1. Harvest 100g of fresh urtica dioica leaves in the early morning on a dry day.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at 30°c for 2 hours or until crisp.
3. Combine 50g of dried leaves with 250ml of jojoba oil in a double boiler.
4. Simmer the mixture at 40°c for 2 hours or until the oil has turned greenish in color.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and bottle the resulting cream in dark glass containers.

10. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with period cramps because they contain compounds like rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

These properties help to relax the uterine muscles, reducing spasms and cramping. Additionally, the calming and soothing effects of Melissa officinalis can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate period cramps.

By applying a Melissa officinalis cream to the skin, the active ingredients can be absorbed, providing relief from period cramps and promoting overall comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with period cramps.

• Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate period cramps by reducing inflammation and pain in the uterine muscles.
• Linalool: This terpene compound has a sedative effect, which can help relieve anxiety and stress associated with menstrual cramps, and also exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to provide pain relief.
• Volatile oils: These terpene compounds in Melissa officinalis have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with period cramps, as well as promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for period cramps.

• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and relieve menstrual cramps.
• Flowers: They have a calming effect and are rich in essential oils, which can help to reduce stress and alleviate period cramp symptoms.
• Stems: They contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help to ease menstrual cramps and discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for period cramps.

1. Infuse 20 grams of melissa officinalis flowers in 200 milliliters of cold-pressed oil in a clean glass jar.
2. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 to 21 days shaking it daily.
3. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container.
4. Add 10 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of distilled water to the oil in a double boiler.
5. Heat the mixture over low heat while stirring constantly until the wax is fully incorporated and the mixture has thickened.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for period cramps?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with period cramps is a blend of arnica, ginger, and clary sage.

Arnica cream reduces inflammation and eases pain, while ginger cream warms the abdomen and soothes cramps. Clary sage cream calms the mind and body, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Applying a mixture of these creams to the lower abdomen can provide quick relief from period cramps.

They can be used individually or in combination for maximum effect.

What ailments similar to period cramps are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to period cramps that are treated with herbal creams are menstrual migraines, fibromyalgia, and endometriosis.

These herbal creams often contain soothing ingredients like lavender, chamomile, and arnica, which help to reduce inflammation and relax muscles. They may also include warming agents such as capsaicin or ginger to increase blood flow and relieve pain.

By targeting these underlying causes of discomfort, herbal creams can provide effective relief from cramp-like symptoms without harsh chemicals or prescription medications.