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Home Remedies for Menstrual Relief

Each month millions of women suffer from menstrual problems like cramps, bloating and headaches. Relief from these symptoms can come from pain relievers like Midol or Pamprin, but some women prefer a more natural way to treat these symptoms. There are many causes for menstrual problems and the symptoms affect all women differently. There appears to be some connection of these symptoms with diet, stress and exercise, but doctors don't know precisely how these factors contribute to menstruation. For many women, menstrual relief can occur with just a few simple changes in lifestyle.

  1. Get More Physical Activity

    • For some women exercise helps to alleviate menstrual symptoms. Exercising every day, particularly right before your period is expected to start, can help to reduce or eliminate your symptoms. Aerobic exercise and yoga are both beneficial. Some doctors suggest you exercise the abdominal muscles to reduce the chance of menstrual cramps. Exercise also helps to reduce stress.

    Reducing Stress

    • Stress can also trigger menstrual symptoms in many women. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help relax the body and mind. A hot bath is very soothing and relaxing. The heat also helps to relax abdominal muscles. Heating pads placed on the abdomen are also recommended by many doctors. Drinking hot tea like chamomile or peppermint also seems to help with cramps and mood swings.

    Changing the Diet

    • Sodium is shown to increase menstrual cramps and bloating in some women. The salt makes a person retain more water and this leads to a bloated feeling. Another way to reduce the chances of feeling full is to eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of three big meals. Eating more fruits and vegetables is also a great way to get the nutrients a body needs. There is evidence that some women may suffer from menstrual problems due to vitamin or mineral deficiencies. The Mayo Clinic suggests eating foods high in calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamin E and B6 for menstrual relief. If you cannot eat enough foods with these nutrients, then supplements are an alternative.

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