The phenomenon of painful periods is characterized in particular by cramps lodged in the lower abdomen and which can extend to the back and thighs. These spasms that precede or accompany the period of menstruation cause pain called dysmenorrhea. Certain plants with soothing or antispasmodic properties are effective in calming these chronic ailments.

1 Clary sage

Sage has the reputation of being the ideal herb to soothe female ailments. A cousin of officinal sage, more commonly used, clary sage is recommended for irregular and painful periods due to its estrogenic properties.

We consume sage leaves as an infusion, daily, before and during menstruation. You can also use aromatherapy: in an infusion of hawthorn or chamomile flowers, add a drop of clary sage essential oil.

Warning: sage is contraindicated for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a history of hormone-dependent cancer, kidney failure or epilepsy. If in doubt, ask your doctor for advice.

2 basil

Basil essential oil has pain relieving and antispasmodic properties. They help to calm the pain associated with the menstrual cycle but also to soothe digestive disorders.

To calm the cramps, pour a few drops of basil essential oil and massage it on the lower abdomen.

You can also consume a drop, once or twice a day, mixed with yogurt, honey or incorporated into an infusion. Without forgetting the fresh basil, to integrate into its diet.

3 Mugwort

Mugwort is a plant that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. To date, extracts of annual mugwort are used in particular in treatments against malaria.

Before your period begins, during the last 14 days of the cycle, it is taken as an infusion to fight PMS. Mugwort is also recommended when it comes to late or stoppage of periods, making it easier to flow.

Please note: mugwort has powerful effects and is not suitable for pregnant women.

4 Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil has a recognized antispasmodic action. It is used in particular to fight against intestinal disorders.

We dilute two drops of essential oil of peppermint in a teaspoon of honey, for example, three times a day. You can also infuse dried peppermint leaves, which you consume between meals, three times a day.

Warning: peppermint essential oil is not suitable for children under four years of age, in case of weak bile ducts or liver and in case of pregnancy.

5 Cinnamon

This spice with a thousand benefits has, among other things, important antispasmodic properties. For millennia, cinnamon has been considered a panacea in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.

It is consumed as an infusion to combat digestive discomfort and pain in the lower abdomen. In essential oil form, it can be used internally by mixing two drops with a teaspoon of honey, or externally, diluted in a little oil and applied by massage.

As a bonus:

To calm menstrual pain, you can also try:

• Evening primrose oil
• Chinese angelica
• Lady’s mantle
• The gatillier
• Willow