#HealthBytes: 5 home-remedies to get relief from menstrual cramps
What's the story
During menstruation, discomfort around the abdomen, lower-back and thighs is common. This happens because the muscles of your womb continuously contract and relax in order to help you shred the built-up lining, thereby leading to cramps, and sometimes even nausea, vomiting, headaches and diarrhea. However, for mild pains, simple home-remedies can work. Here are 5 simple home-remedies to get relief from menstrual cramps.
OTC, Heat treatment
Get over-the-counter medications; Use the heating method
OTC: Over-the-counter medications like Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often recommended for menstrual pain and heavy bleeding. These include ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). Heat: A 2012 study of women aged 18-30 suggested that a heat-patch of 40°C was as effective as ibuprofen. You can use a hot water bottle, heating pad or hot-towel.
Massage
Essential oils massage
Massage therapy for 20-30 minutes can significantly help relieve menstrual pain. Several recent studies have proved that using essential oils for massage leads to reduction in the intensity as well as the duration of menstrual pain. Menstruation massage therapy typically involves pressing of specific points around your abdomen, side, and back.
Information
Orgasms to the rescue, against menstrual cramps
The release of feel-good hormones like endorphins and oxytocin post vaginal orgasms can decrease pain-perception and boost your mood, thereby giving you the much-needed relief from your periods-induced misery.
Diet
Take care of your diet
Certain herbal home-remedies, containing anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic compounds, like Chamoline tea, fennel seeds, cinnamon, ginger and chilli can help reduce menstrual cramps and swelling. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid food-items that lead to bloating and water-retention. These mainly include fatty-foods, alcohol, carbonated drinks, caffeine and salty foods. Cutting down on them can considerably help relieve menstrual pain and tension.