10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Period Cramps

Herbal tinctures for period cramps are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, roots, and herbs that have been used for centuries to alleviate menstrual discomfort.

These natural remedies help to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and ease pain by releasing endorphins and other pain-relieving compounds into the body. Examples of herbal tinctures that effectively soothe period cramps include cramp bark, black cohosh, and ginger.

By using these tinctures, women can experience a significant reduction in menstrual discomfort, allowing them to carry on with their daily lives without interruption.

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

1. Angelica archangelica

Angelica tinctures helps with period cramps because it contains a unique combination of compounds that have a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect on the body.

The bioactive ingredients, such as angelic acid and isoangelicin, help to relax the uterine muscles, reducing spasms and contractions that cause severe pain during menstruation.

Additionally, angelica's antispasmodic properties soothe crampy abdominal discomfort, allowing women to find relief from the physical symptoms associated with PMS.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Ligustilide: This sesquiterpene lactone helps alleviate period cramps by relaxing uterine muscles and reducing prostaglandin levels, which contribute to cramping.
• Butylphthalide: As a sesquiterpene lactone, butylphthalide has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help to reduce menstrual cramp severity and discomfort.
• Coclaurine: This phenolic alkaloid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to alleviate period cramps by blocking pain pathways in the nervous system.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They contain a compound called bergapten, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate menstrual cramps.
• Leaves: They contain compounds like sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help to reduce period cramps.
• Stems: They contain compounds like sesquiterpenes and lignans, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to alleviate menstrual cramps and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest angelica archangelica roots and stems in late summer or early fall when they are at their peak potency.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight to create the tincture.
4. Allow the tincture to steep in a dark glass jar for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every few days.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove plant particles.

2. Cinnamomum verum

Ceylon cinnamon tinctures helps with period cramps because its unique compound, cinnamaldehyde, has a natural ability to reduce inflammation and relax muscles.

When taken internally as a tincture, it can help to ease the contraction of uterine muscles, providing relief from menstrual cramp discomfort. Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's antioxidant properties may also help to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to painful periods.

As a result, incorporating herbal Ceylon cinnamon tinctures into one's wellness routine can offer a natural and effective way to alleviate period cramps and promote overall reproductive health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cinnamaldehyde: This phenolic compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce prostaglandin levels associated with menstrual cramps.
• Catechin: A type of flavonoid, catechin has been found to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which could provide relief from period cramps.
• Coumarin: A phenolic compound, coumarin has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties, which may help alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Cinnamomum verum leaves are used due to their high content of eugenol, a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate menstrual cramps.
• Barks: Cinnamomum verum barks are used for their warming and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce period cramp pain.
• Rhyzomes: Cinnamomum verum rhyzomes are used due to their high content of cinnamaldehyde, a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound that helps to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250 grams of cinnamomum verum bark at peak ripeness with a sharp knife in late summer.
2. Dry the harvested bark in a single layer at 40 degrees celsius for 2 weeks.
3. Combine 250 grams of dried cinnamomum verum bark with 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.

3. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with period cramps because it contains compounds that have a natural anti-inflammatory effect on the body.

The saponins present in licorice root help to relax uterine muscles, reducing contractions and alleviating pain associated with menstrual cramps. Additionally, licorice has been shown to increase prostaglandin levels, which can help to stimulate blood flow and reduce inflammation in the uterus, further providing relief from period cramps.

This natural remedy offers a safe and effective way to alleviate discomfort during this time of month.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
• Licoricidin: Licoricidin, a triterpenoid saponin in Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been found to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce menstrual pain.
• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin in Glycyrrhiza glabra, can help reduce the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to menstrual cramps and pain.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties to help ease menstrual cramps.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, providing relief from period cramps.
• Barks: The bark of the plant has been traditionally used to treat various health issues, including menstrual discomfort, as it contains compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Collect 50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and rinse with distilled water for 10 minutes.
2. Grind the roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 20 minutes.
3. Combine 250 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol with the powder in a clean glass jar for 2 hours.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days with occasional shaking for 5 minutes.
5. Filter the mixture through cheesecloth and transfer it to a glass bottle with a dropper cap.

4. Paeonia lactiflora

Chinese peony tinctures helps with period cramps because its unique blend of bioactive compounds, including falcarinol and glycosides, has a potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect.

The tincture's ability to relax uterine muscles reduces spasms and cramping, providing relief from intense pelvic pain. Additionally, the herbal formula helps to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause contractions and further exacerbate discomfort.

By addressing both physical and hormonal imbalances, Chinese peony tinctures offer a natural approach to alleviating menstrual cramp symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Isoferulic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help alleviate period cramp pain by reducing inflammation and modulating pain transmission.
• Paeoniflorin: A glycoside compound, paeoniflorin has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
• Paeonol: A phenolic compound, paeonol has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties, which help to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and calm uterine spasms associated with period cramps.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Paeonia lactiflora roots are used due to their high concentration of paeonol and other compounds with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Flowers: Paeonia lactiflora flowers are used because they contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help to reduce menstrual cramp pain and promote relaxation.
• Leaves: Paeonia lactiflora leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate menstrual cramp pain and reduce inflammation in the uterine muscles.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of paeonia lactiflora roots and 2 parts of flowers fresh or dried in early spring.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces and combine with flowers in a clean glass jar.
3. Add 60 to 80 percent vodka as solvent to the jar covering the herbal material completely.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids.

5. Vitex agnus castus

Chaste tree tinctures helps with period cramps because it contains a natural compound called casticin, which has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

When taken orally, casticin is believed to interact with the body's hormonal systems, reducing prostaglandins, the hormone-like substances responsible for causing uterine contractions and cramping.

By regulating prostaglandin production, chaste tree tinctures can provide relief from period cramps, making it a natural and effective solution for managing menstrual discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: They help with period cramps by acting as natural anti-spasmodics, reducing muscle contractions in the uterus that cause pain.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Vitex agnus castus have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with menstrual cramps.
• Diterpenes: Diterpenes in the plant may have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the uterus, reducing spasms and cramping.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of flavonoids and iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and hormonal balancing properties.
• Leaves: Leaves are often used to make tinctures for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce menstrual cramp severity.
• Seeds: Seeds of Vitex agnus castus are also used to make tinctures, as they contain bioactive compounds that may help regulate hormonal imbalances and alleviate menstrual cramp symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh or dried vitex agnus castus flowers and leaves in the summer months.
2. Chop the vitex agnus castus flowers and leaves into small pieces using sharp scissors or pruning shears.
3. Combine 1 part vitex agnus castus with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard solids.

6. Cirsium arvense

Canada thistle tinctures helps with period cramps because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity of uterine contractions.

The herb contains a compound called saponin, which has been shown to inhibit prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause muscle contractions in the uterus and lead to cramping pain.

By reducing the production of these hormones, Canada thistle tinctures can help alleviate period cramps, allowing women to feel more comfortable and relaxed during their menstrual cycles.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cirsium arvense tinctures that help with period cramps.

• Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin, have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce prostaglandin levels, thus alleviating menstrual cramp pain.
• Triterpenoid saponins: These natural compounds have been shown to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help relax the uterine muscles and reduce pain during menstrual cramps.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds, such as caffeic acid, have been found to exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of canada thistle used to make tinctures for period cramps.

• Roots: The roots of Cirsium arvense contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help alleviate period cramp symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of Cirsium arvense contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help ease period cramp pain.
• Stems: The stems of Cirsium arvense contain sesquiterpene lactones, which may have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects that can help manage period cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of the aerial parts of cirsium arvense in the flowering stage when it is dry.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using a sharp blade to increase surface area.
3. Combine 1 part chopped plant material with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container discarding the solids.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with period cramps because it contains a natural anti-inflammatory compound called taraxasterol, which has been shown to reduce prostaglandins in the body.

Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that cause uterine muscle contractions and lead to menstrual cramp pain. Dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties help to block these contractions, providing relief from cramping and discomfort.

Additionally, dandelion tincture has been found to balance hormones and reduce inflammation in the body, further alleviating period symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Inulin: Inulin, a type of fructan, helps alleviate period cramps by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut microbiome, which can contribute to menstrual pain.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpene saponin, exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it effective in reducing menstrual cramp severity.
• Taraxol: Taraxol, a sesquiterpene lactone, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate period cramp pain and reduce uterine contractions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for period cramps.

• Leaves: They are used because of their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate period cramps.
• Roots: They are used because of their rich content of inulin, a prebiotic that helps regulate digestion and reduce menstrual cramp severity.
• Flowers: They are used because of their high content of sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help relieve period cramps.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 part fresh taraxacum officinale roots and 2 parts fresh taraxacum officinale leaves in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine the gathered taraxacum officinale plant material with 70 proof ethanol at a 1:3 ratio.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
5. Label and store the taraxacum officinale tincture in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.

8. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with period cramps because its mucilages soothe and relax the uterine lining, reducing inflammation and spasms that cause cramping.

The antispasmodic properties of marshmallow also ease muscle contractions, providing fast relief from cramp discomfort. Additionally, marshmallow's anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to period pain.

By calming the uterus and reducing inflammation, marshmallow tinctures offer natural relief from menstrual cramps, allowing women to feel more comfortable and relaxed during their periods.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages help with period cramps by coating the uterine lining and reducing inflammation, thereby providing relief from menstrual cramps.
• Gallic acid: Gallic acid helps with period cramps by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent and reducing prostaglandin production, which contributes to menstrual cramping.
• Quercetin: Quercetin helps with period cramps by acting as a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, reducing inflammation and pain associated with menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are used for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their gentle, yet effective, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help ease period cramps.
• Barks: The barks are used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce menstrual cramp pain and promote relaxation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of roots of the plant in the morning after the dew has evaporated and dry them in a dark place.
2. Chop 1 part of the dried roots into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for extraction and place them in a clean glass jar.
3. Add 2 parts of a solvent such as vodka or glycerin to the jar with the chopped roots and seal it tightly.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it every day to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar and discard the solids.

9. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with period cramps because it contains compounds that have a relaxing effect on the uterine muscles, reducing spasms and contractions associated with menstrual cramps.

The anti-inflammatory properties of valerian also help to reduce inflammation in the uterus, further alleviating pain and discomfort.

Additionally, valerian's ability to regulate hormonal imbalances can help to stabilize menstruation, leading to a more comfortable and predictable period experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: Acts as a GABA receptor agonist, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms that contribute to period cramps.
• Valeranone: Exhibits antispasmodic properties, helping to relax uterine muscles and alleviate cramping sensations associated with menstrual periods.
• Valerenalactone: Demonstrates analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with period cramps.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Valeriana officinalis roots are the most commonly used part for making tinctures to alleviate period cramps due to their high valerenic acid content, which has sedative and anti-spasmodic properties.
• Seeds: Valeriana officinalis seeds are another key part used in tinctures for period cramps because they are rich in valerenic acid and other compounds that help to relax the uterine muscles and reduce pain.
• Leaves: Valeriana officinalis leaves are also used to make tinctures for period cramps, although to a lesser extent, as they contain smaller amounts of valerenic acid and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh valeriana officinalis roots in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Wash the roots thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Dry the roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 7 to 10 days.
4. Combine 1 part of dried valeriana officinalis roots with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
5. Steep the mixture for 2 to 4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.

10. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with period cramps because of its natural ability to relax and soothe the uterine muscles, reducing spasms and inflammation.

The herbal remedy contains compounds like rosmarinic acid and camphor that work together to ease menstrual discomfort by calming the nervous system and promoting a sense of relaxation.

This natural anti-inflammatory property helps to reduce pain and cramping associated with PMS, allowing women to feel more comfortable and relieved during their period.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce prostaglandin production, thereby alleviating menstrual cramp pain.
• Linalool: As a terpene, linalool has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can provide relief from period cramps by reducing muscle tension and inflammation.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relax uterine muscles and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Melissa officinalis leaves are often used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and essential oils, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate period cramps.
• Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are used in tinctures for their calming and antispasmodic effects, which can help reduce menstrual cramp discomfort and promote relaxation.
• Buds: Melissa officinalis buds are sometimes used in tinctures for their high content of essential oils and flavonoids, which may help alleviate period cramps and other symptoms associated with PMS.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest melissa officinalis flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested melissa flowers and leaves in a warm dark place for 7 to 14 days.
3. Combine 250 grams of dried melissa flowers and leaves with 750 milliliters of 95 percent vodka in a glass container.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the container every 2 days.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with period cramps is a blend of cramp bark, ginger, and blue cohosh.

Cramp bark is known to ease uterine spasms, while ginger provides anti-inflammatory properties to reduce pain and discomfort. Blue cohosh, rich in magnesium and other minerals, helps relax the uterine muscles and alleviate cramping. Taking these tinctures individually or in combination, as directed, may help alleviate period cramps and promote overall menstrual well-being.

Consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.

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

Ailments similar to period cramps that are treated with herbal tinctures are menstrual migraines, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and endometriosis symptoms.

Herbs like Willow bark, Ginger, and Cramp Bark have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate cramping, pain, and discomfort. Tinctures can also be used to address other gynecological issues such as amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, and pelvic pain.

Herbal remedies provide a natural and gentle approach to managing these symptoms.