10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Period Cramps

Herbal decoctions for period cramps are a natural remedy made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing tea.

These decoctions help alleviate menstrual cramps by relaxing uterine muscles, reducing inflammation, and restoring hormonal balance. Examples of effective herbal decoctions include peppermint, ginger, and chasteberry teas, which can be consumed daily during the luteal phase or as needed to alleviate cramping.

By using these decoctions, women can reduce their reliance on pain medications and improve their overall quality of life by managing symptoms naturally and holistically.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with period cramps because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

When taken as a warm tea, it soothes and relaxes the uterine muscles, reducing menstrual cramp severity and duration. Additionally, licorice root is believed to help balance hormones, which can also alleviate cramping caused by hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.

The warmth of the decoction can also provide comfort and relief from discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Liquiritin: It has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce pain and cramping associated with menstrual periods.
• Glycyrrhizin: It has a direct effect on the prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation during menstruation, thereby reducing period cramps and other symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, thereby alleviating period cramps and other symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for period cramps.

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound known to have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate menstrual cramps.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra Leaves: The leaves are often used in combination with the roots, as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with period cramps.
• Barks: Glycyrrhiza glabra Barks: The barks are sometimes used in decoctions for their antispasmodic properties, which can help to relax the muscles and reduce cramping associated with menstrual periods.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-50 grams of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra for decoction.
2. Crush the dried roots into smaller pieces using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine the crushed roots with 500ml of water in a saucepan.
4. Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes over medium heat.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the liquid extract.

2. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian decoctions helps with period cramps because of its natural ability to relax the uterine muscles, reducing contractions and inflammation that can exacerbate cramping.

The herb's sedative properties also help to calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress that can worsen menstrual discomfort. Additionally, valerian's anti-inflammatory compounds may help to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and pain.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, valerian decoctions can provide effective relief from period cramps, helping women feel more comfortable during their menstrual cycle.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid is a sesquiterpene, which has been shown to have anxiolytic and antispasmodic effects, helping to relieve cramp pain and reduce anxiety associated with menstrual cramps.
• Valeranone: Valeranone, a valerenic acid derivative, has been found to have a sedative effect, which can help to reduce pain perception and promote relaxation, alleviating the discomfort of period cramps.
• Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid is a short-chain fatty acid that has been shown to have antispasmodic and analgesic properties, helping to relax uterine muscles and reduce the pain associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of valerenic acid, a compound that has been shown to have sedative and pain-relieving properties.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Valeriana officinalis are also used, as they contain similar compounds to the roots, including valerenic acid, which helps to alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort.
• Seeds: The seeds of Valeriana officinalis are sometimes used, although less frequently than the roots and rhyzomes, as they contain smaller amounts of valerenic acid and other beneficial compounds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full growth.
2. Dry valeriana officinalis roots in a well-ventilated area for 1 to 2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
3. Grind 5 to 10 grams of dried valeriana officinalis roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Combine 5 grams of the ground powder with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
5. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes and then strain it before consuming the liquid decoction.

3. Vitex agnus castus

Chaste tree decoctions helps with period cramps because it contains a key compound called casticin, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties.

When consumed as a decoction, casticin interacts with the body's hormone system to reduce prostaglandins, the hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and lead to cramping during menstruation.

By decreasing these contractions, chaste tree decoctions can provide relief from period cramps, allowing women to feel more comfortable and relaxed during this time of month.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitex agnus castus decoctions that help with period cramps.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help alleviate period cramps by modulating prostaglandin synthesis, which is involved in the contraction of uterine smooth muscles.
• Vitexin: This flavonoid is believed to help reduce period cramps by acting as a mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, thus reducing the severity of uterine contractions.
• Agnuside: This iridoid glycoside is thought to contribute to the relief of period cramps by regulating hormonal balance, particularly estrogen levels, which can influence menstrual pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chaste tree used to make decoctions for period cramps.

• Flowers: The flowers are used because they contain iridoid glycosides, which have been shown to have a positive effect on menstrual health and alleviating period cramps.
• Seeds: The seeds are used due to their high content of agnuside, which has been found to have estrogen-regulating properties, helping to ease menstrual symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain a range of bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to alleviate period cramp discomfort.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 30-60 grams of dried vitex agnus castus berries and store them in an airtight container.
2. Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried vitex agnus castus berries with 1 cup of boiling water.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-15 minutes or until the desired potency is reached.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup or container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool before consuming it in 2-3 doses per day.

4. Leonurus cardiaca

Motherwort decoctions helps with period cramps because of its ability to relax uterine muscles and reduce inflammation.

The herb's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have a natural analgesic effect that can help alleviate the severity of menstrual cramps. Additionally, motherwort has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce anxiety related to period symptoms.

This natural remedy can provide effective relief from period cramps without relying on pharmaceutical medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Leonurus cardiaca decoctions that help with period cramps.

• Levonurine: A non-protein alkaloid that helps with period cramps by acting as a uterine relaxant, reducing spasms and cramping in the uterus.
• Rosmarinicine: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with period cramps.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to period cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of motherwort used to make decoctions for period cramps.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of essential oils and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
• Roots: The roots are used due to their rich content of iridoid glycosides, which have been shown to have a sedative effect and help relieve menstrual cramps.
• Fruits: The fruits are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate period cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest approximately 20-30 grams of dried leonurus cardiaca roots and stems in the summer months.
2. Chop the dried leonurus cardiaca plant material into smaller pieces to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped leonurus cardiaca with 1 liter of boiling water in a large saucepan.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to release the bioactive compounds from the plant material.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

5. Artemisia absinthium

Wormwood decoctions helps with period cramps because of its natural ability to relax uterine muscles, reducing spasms and inflammation.

The volatile oils present in wormwood, such as thujone and sesquiterpene lactones, have been shown to ease menstrual discomfort by calming the uterus and improving blood flow.

Additionally, wormwood's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause cramps, making it an effective natural remedy for period relief.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thujone: Thujone has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
• Absinthin: Absinthin is a sesquiterpene lactone that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic activities, helping to relax uterine muscles and reduce menstrual cramp severity.
• Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate is a monoterpene with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, particularly thujone, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate menstrual cramps.
• Roots: The roots are known to contain bioactive compounds like sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which have anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, providing relief from menstrual cramp pain.
• Stems: The stems of Artemisia absinthium contain a mixture of essential oils, including thujone and camphor, which have a calming effect and help reduce muscle spasms associated with period cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried artemisia absinthium leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Clean the harvested plant material by rinsing it with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop the cleaned plant material into small pieces weighing about 1-2 teaspoons per 8 ounces of water.
4. Steep the chopped plant material in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release its active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container discard solids.

6. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow decoctions helps with period cramps because they provide a soothing and comforting relief to the uterine muscles.

The anti-inflammatory properties of marshmallow root help to reduce pain and swelling, while its natural emollient properties ease muscle contractions.

Additionally, marshmallow decoctions have been shown to increase the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that help to relax the uterine muscles, thus providing a natural relief from menstrual cramps.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilage: Mucilage in Althaea officinalis decoctions may help soothe the uterus and reduce inflammation, which can contribute to period cramp relief.
• Gallic acid: Gallic acid, a phenolic compound found in Althaea officinalis, may have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, helping to alleviate period cramps and associated discomfort.
• Isoleucine: Isoleucine, an amino acid present in Althaea officinalis, may help relax the uterine muscles and reduce spasms, providing relief from period cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for period cramps.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and calm the uterine muscles.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with period cramps.
• Stems: The stems are sometimes used in combination with roots and leaves to create a more comprehensive decoction that can address various symptoms of period cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10 to 20 grams of dried root of the herb in late summer or early fall.
2. Chop the dried root into small pieces to facilitate its extraction in boiling water.
3. Combine the chopped root with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to release the herb's medicinal properties.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

7. Angelica archangelica

Angelica decoctions helps with period cramps because they possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to reduce uterine contractions, thus alleviating cramp symptoms.

The bioactive compounds in angelica, such as estragole and apiol, have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause muscle contractions during menstruation. Additionally, angelica's antispasmodic effects help to relax smooth muscles, further reducing cramp severity and duration.

As a result, drinking angelica decoctions may provide natural relief from period cramps and associated discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Phenolic glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
• Terpenoids: These compounds have spasmolytic properties, which help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce the frequency and severity of menstrual cramps.
• Coumarins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps by improving blood flow and reducing uterine contractions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make decoctions for period cramps.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their high content of angelica root extract, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help alleviate period cramps.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenes that have a soothing effect on the muscles and help to reduce pain and discomfort during periods.
• Stems: The stems are used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to ease menstrual cramps and spasms in the uterus.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried angelica archangelica roots and 1 cup of boiling water for decoction.
2. Crush the angelica archangelica roots into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the crushed angelica archangelica roots with boiling water in a heat-resistant container for 10-15 minutes steeping time.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
5. Store the cooled angelica archangelica decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

8. Centaurea cyanus

Cornflower decoctions helps with period cramps because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive compounds present in cornflowers, such as flavonoids and saponins, have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are hormones that cause uterine contractions leading to pain. Additionally, the decoction's warming effect helps to dilate blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the affected areas, thereby reducing cramping sensations and discomfort associated with menstrual periods.

This natural remedy provides a safe and effective way to alleviate period cramps without relying on pharmaceutical medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centaurea cyanus decoctions that help with period cramps.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds may help with period cramps by reducing inflammation and modulating pain perception.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds may help alleviate period cramps by reducing prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause uterine contractions and pain.
• Saponins: These compounds may help with period cramps by reducing inflammation and modulating the body's response to pain, although more research is needed to confirm their effects.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cornflower used to make decoctions for period cramps.

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to ease menstrual cramps.
• Flowers: They are used because of their potential to reduce inflammation and relax the uterine muscles, providing relief from period cramps.
• Seeds: They are used due to their emmenagogic properties, which help to stimulate menstrual flow and alleviate cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the centaurea cyanus flowers in the morning after the dew has dried but before it gets too hot outside.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm place out of direct sunlight for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
3. Use 20-30 grams of dried flowers and steep them in 500 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to create a decoction.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the solids.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and consume 1-2 cups as needed.

9. Paeonia lactiflora

Chinese peony decoctions helps with period cramps because it has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to relieve menstrual discomfort.

The plant's active compounds, such as isoflavones and triterpenoids, have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce uterine contractions and alleviate cramping sensations. Additionally, peony decoctions may also help regulate hormonal balance, which can contribute to reduced pain and discomfort during menstruation.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, Chinese peony decoctions provide a natural and effective way to ease period-related cramps.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia lactiflora decoctions that help with period cramps.

• Paeoniflorin: A monoterpene glycoside that helps to reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pain-causing chemicals in the body, such as prostaglandins.
• Paeonol: A phenolic compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to relax the uterine muscles and alleviate cramping.
• Benzenoids: A class of compounds that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to the pain-relieving properties of Paeonia lactiflora decoctions and helping to reduce period cramp severity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chinese peony used to make decoctions for period cramps.

• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
• Leaves: Contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, providing relief from period cramps.
• Buds: Contain paeonol, a compound with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to alleviate menstrual cramp pain.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Select fresh paeonia lactiflora roots and clean them thoroughly under cold running water.
2. Chop the cleaned roots into small pieces and weigh out 9 grams for 1 liter of decoction.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 30 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Rumex crispus

Curly dock decoctions helps with period cramps because it contains high amounts of anthraquinones, which have been shown to relax uterine muscles and reduce inflammation.

Additionally, curly dock has a natural anti-inflammatory property that helps to soothe the uterus and ease menstrual cramp pain. The decoction's warmth also helps to increase blood flow, further reducing cramping and discomfort.

By using curly dock decoctions during menstruation, women may experience relief from severe period cramps and enjoy a more comfortable monthly cycle.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate period cramps by acting as potent anti-inflammatory agents and relaxing smooth muscle contractions in the uterus.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds help reduce menstrual cramp severity by constricting blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the uterus, which in turn eases uterine contractions.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate period cramps by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, ultimately leading to pain relief.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as tannins and flavonoids, that help alleviate menstrual cramps and other symptoms.
• Leaves: Leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to ease cramps and reduce prostaglandins that contribute to menstrual pain.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are employed for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with period cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of the aerial parts of rumex crispus on a dry day in late summer or early fall.
2. Chop the harvested plant parts into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the chopped plant parts with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 15-30 minutes to allow for extraction.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the final herbal remedy.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with period cramps is a blend of ginger, turmeric, and cramp bark.

Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce pain and discomfort, while turmeric's curcumin reduces inflammation and promotes relaxation. Cramp bark, rich in magnesium, helps to ease muscle spasms and cramps. Combining these three decoctions creates a powerful remedy to soothe period cramps and promote overall menstrual well-being.

This blend can be consumed as a warm tea, offering a natural and effective solution to alleviate period pain.

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

Ailments similar to period cramps that are treated with herbal decoctions are dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and mastalgia.

The decoctions are made from herbs such as ginger, turmeric, cinnamomum, and cinnamon, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

These herbs help alleviate symptoms of pain, swelling, and discomfort associated with these conditions, providing relief to women who suffer from them.