Heavy menstrual bleeding is associated with prolonged or abnormally heavy periods which can take much of our energy, time, and money because we need to change our pads every few hours.
Medically known as menorrhagia, this condition is often associated with mood swing, fatigue, headache, nausea, severe cramps in the lower abdominal region, menstrual bleeding with large blood clots, weakness, and lethargy.
According to experts, there are several causes of heavy menstrual bleeding such as nearing menopause, uterine-related issues which include growths, tumors or polyps in the uterus, hormone-related issues, platelet function disorder, pelvic inflammatory disease, cancer that affects the reproductive system, and certain medications.
Here are some of the best home remedies and natural treatments we can consider when dealing with heavy menstrual bleeding.
Ginger Tea
Ginger constrict the vessels by thinning the blood and inhibiting the production of prostaglandin hormone which is responsible for menstrual cramps. Have ginger powder in a cup of water and simmer for five minutes. The tea should be taken two times every day after meals.
Tamarind
Tamarind, which works best in paste form, helps the blood to clot in order to prevent excessive bleeding. For this remedy, we need to remove the seeds and blend it adding water and honey. We can also try boiling seedless tamarind in a cup of water for minutes. Cool it down and add honey to taste and for additional benefits. Drink the mixture.
Cinnamon
Aside from reducing insulin resistance, cinnamon also inhibit thromboxane receptors which cause platelets to clot. To stop heavy bleeding, we need to simply grind cinnamon into a fine powder and then add in a cup of water and boil for twenty minutes. Drink the solution before going to bed.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is one of the superfoods that we use in cooking. It reduces heavy menstrual bleeding by balancing female hormones and improving blood circulation. To enjoy this benefit, simply have cayenne pepper added in a glass of water and then add some honey. Drink two glasses of the mixture every day during the menstruation period.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
According to research, consumption of ACV can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and improve overall reproductive health. For this purpose, we need to dilute one tablespoon of ACV in a glass of water and drink throughout the menstrual period. This remedy is not a quick fix for this problem. Its results appear only after daily consumption for a month.
Apply an Ice Pack
Placing an ice pack on the abdomen causes the constriction of blood vessels thereby reducing bleeding, pain, and swelling. Wrap an ice pack in a towel or t-shirt and place it over the abdomen for no more than 20 minutes. Reapply the pack after two to four hours for as long as the symptoms continue.
Lady’s Mantle
This herb is often used for menstrual issues. It has a strong contractile (muscle tightening), coagulating (blood clotting), and astringent (blood vessel tightening) effects which can all help bring the menstruation to a normal level.
Make a tea by infusing 1 ounce of dried lady’s mantle leaves in 1 pint of boiling water. Drink this tea three times a day until the symptoms subside.
Add Iron-Rich Foods To Your Diet
Due to heavy bleeding, our risk of suffering from iron-deficiency anemia increases. This common condition occurs when we don’t have enough red blood cells from too little iron in our body. Red blood cells are the ones that allow our blood to distribute oxygen to our various cells, tissues, and organs.
According to experts, we need to consume foods that contain iron in order for our body to be able to produce more RBCs to replace the ones lost via our period.
Some of the best food sources of iron include red meat, organ meats like liver, turkey, chicken, shellfish, spinach, broccoli, beans, peas, nuts, and seeds.
Aloe Vera
Found in aloe vera are beneficial antioxidants with healing properties. It balances female hormone and stops the condition of heavy menstrual bleeding.
For this purpose, take fresh aloe vera leaves and extract the gel. Add three spoonful of the gel in a cup of hot water and then add some honey to taste. Drink the solution during periods – in the morning and before going to bed.
