9 Best Teas for Menstrual Cramps: Try Chamomile, Hibiscus, and More

Cramps are common, and there are many ways to relieve the pain. Drinking tea is one of them. Check out some of the best teas for colds.

Menstruation is an important part of monthly life cycle for women of reproductive age. These pains in the abdomen before or during your period are caused by uterine contractions when your period arrives. Menstrual cramps or painful periods can range in intensity from mild discomfort to severe pain. For this reason, there are over-the-counter painkillers and heat therapy to help reduce the pain. While there are hot packs and bandages that can help reduce the pain over time, drinking a few cups of tea can also help. It may be beneficial to drink tea a few days before your period and continue to drink tea for the first few days of your period. So choose the best tea for cramps.

What are the causes of cramps?

The main cause of menstrual cramps is the release of the hormone prostaglandin, which causes uterine contractions. If prostaglandin levels are high, it can make the pain worse.

Other things that can cause cramps include:

• Uterine fibroids – Non Cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause more pain.
• Endometriosis – Endometrium-like tissue grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain.
• Pelvic inflammation – Infection of the pelvic organs can cause cramps.
• Cervical stenosis – A condition in which the cervix is ​​abnormal, restricting menstruation and increasing pressure inside the uterus.

Tea that’s good for cramps

Drink these teas to relieve cramps:

1. Chamomile tea

According to a study published in 2021 in the International Journal of Community Nursing and Midwifery, chamomile may be considered a good way to treat cramps and reduce menstrual bleeding. and promote relaxation because it contains anti-inflammatory properties, and also acts as a muscle relaxant.

2. Ginger tea

Ginger is a common kitchen ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking ginger tea can help reduce pain and nausea associated with menstruation.

3. Mint tea

Mint tea is not only refreshing, but also good for people with menstrual cramps. The menthol in mint tea has a relaxing effect on the muscles and can help reduce abdominal discomfort.

4. Green tea

A 2019 study published in BMJ Open found a link between drinking green tea and reducing the incidence of cramps. Green tea is rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve overall health, possibly relieving menstrual cramps.

5. Fennel tea

Fennel may help prevent uterine contractions, which are known to cause cramps. Fennel’s antispasmodic properties may help reduce menstrual cramp symptoms. Drinking fennel tea may also help reduce period bloating.

6. Red raspberry leaf tea

Red raspberry leaf, a part of the raspberry plant, is used to relieve menstrual discomfort. It can help regulate the muscles in the uterus, which can help reduce menstrual cramps.

7. Turmeric tea

Curcumin, an active compound in turmeric, may help reduce the severity of cramps, according to research published in March 2024 in the Korean Journal of Family Medicine. It contains strong anti-inflammatory properties which help alleviate period pain.

8. Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm may help reduce cold sores, according to a 2015 study published in Nursing & Midwifery Research. Lemon balm tea may help reduce stress and anxiety, which may reduce menstrual cramps.

9. Hibiscus tea

Hibiscus flowers are rich in antioxidants, so they may help reduce inflammation and pain. This makes it especially beneficial to include hibiscus tea in your diet if you have menstrual cramps.

Start drinking these teas a day or two before your period starts and continue until your period ends. This can help ease and reduce discomfort as your body prepares for your period.

Are there any side effects of drinking tea for menstrual cramps?

Here are some side effects of drinking tea during menstruation:

• Ingredients like chamomile can cause allergic reactions in some people.
• Eating too much ginger can upset your stomach or cause heartburn.
• Mint can cause acid reflux in some people.

You may also want to know if black tea is good for menstrual cramps. Black tea is good for your stomach and heart as it contains antioxidants. However, try not to drink it during periods. Black tea also contains caffeine, which irritates blood vessels, worsens abdominal pain and causes bloating during menstruation.

Drinking tea for period pain can help relieve some discomfort. You can drink two cups of tea per day or adjust the amount and dosage according to your personal taste and tolerance. However, it is important to listen to your body and consult your doctor before drinking this tea if you have any concerns. Also, if the pain is severe and affects your daily activities, talk to your doctor for further evaluation and treatment.