New Delhi:

Cramps can mess up plans, sap energy, and turn simple things into extra work, and they can really be a hassle for certain women, especially when they need to get things done. It can seem like the easiest solution to just take a painkiller. However, painkillers are not always the best solution.

Dr. Kunal Sood, a doctor of anaesthesia and pain medicine, says it can be beneficial to understand what is happening in the body to get the most out of effective home remedies. In a recent video on Instagram, he discussed how making simple, supportive changes to home remedies can help ease the pain by reducing inflammation, relaxing the muscles, and increasing blood flow.

Why do they have to happen in the first place though?

Dr. Sood says that when the body goes through it all and has its period, it starts to release a substance called prostaglandins. This is what causes the uterus to contract and flush out its lining. The more prostaglandins, the more vigorous the contractions, so that’s one of the main reasons why cramps can get so bad for some women.

5 Simple Home Remedies for Relieving Menstrual Pain

1.  More Than Just Soothing Comfort

The application of heat to the lower abdomen has been shown to be one of the best ways to relieve cramps. According to Dr. Sood, heat helps relax the uterine muscles and promote blood flow in the notifying area. Heat therapy has been researched, and results suggest it offers relief comparable to some prescription medications. A heating pad or hot water bottle can be surprisingly effective for cramps.

2.  A Gentle Support of the Body

Ginger, chamomile, and fennel, along with other warm herbal teas, contain muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory ingredients. Dr. Sood states that ginger is one of the best anti-inflammatory teas to consume, as it has shown to work to relieve pain, almost symptomatically when compared to other anti-inflammatory medications, but with fewer adverse side effects.

3.  Support of Muscle Relaxation is Important with Magnesium and Vitamin B1

Scientific studies show that these two nutrients can help with easing menstrual cramps. Magnesium assists with muscle contraction regulation, while Vitamin B1 helps with nerve function and control of energy. Legally, there is some evidence stating the use of Magnesium and Vitamin B1 can help improve the severity or length of that menstrual cycle.

4. Omega-3 fatty acids are good for calming inflammation

Though they are generally known for their positive effects on inflammation in the body, Omega-3 fatty acids, according to Dr. Sood, may even positively impact the emotional component of the cycle by stabilizing mood. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fatty fish and in large quantities in flax seeds.  

5. Being active can help ease the pain

Light movement can be very beneficial if done in moderation. Gentle movement is good for circulation, and can even help stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural pain killers. This can be accomplished in the form of walking, stretching, or even yoga, and even a couple minutes can help.