Cinnamon As A Potent Solution For Menstrual Cramps

Dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramps is a wave-like pain that is mostly experienced by a woman before and during her period. This pain, that ranges from mild to severe, can be experienced in the lower abdomen, and in thighs and back. Aside from these, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and dizziness can also be felt.

Though most women can handle the pain during their period, some ladies may need medication if the pain is severe. There are over-the-counter meds that can give an easy medical solution for cramps. However, many women still opt for a natural means of eliminating menstrual cramps.

Cinnamon And Menstrual Cramps

Cinnamon is a delicious and popular spice that is used in a wide range of cooking recipes. It is rich in antioxidants that prevent cell deterioration brought about by free radicals. While there are many varieties of this tree, the most commonly used are Ceylon and Cassia cinnamon.

In addition to its great taste, cinnamon possesses many beneficial nutrients and compounds that have healing properties. For many years, this ingredient has been used in treating a variety of health issues such as infections, diabetes, cancers, dysmenorrhea, and others.

In a study published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, results recommend cinnamon as a spice that can help relieve dysmenorrhea or menstrual cramps.

A randomized, double-blind clinical trial was conducted by researchers from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences and Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Iran to determine the real effect of this famous spice on dysmenorrhea. Participants were divided into two groups. – the 1st group was given with 1,000 milligrams (mg) of cinnamon capsules while the placebo group received capsules containing 1,000 mg starch. They were instructed to take the capsules in the first three days of menstruation for two cycles continuously.

After the study period, results revealed that the mean intensity of dysmenorrhea dramatically decreased over time in both groups. However, there is a much more significant intensity in the reduction of dysmenorrhea in the cinnamon group as compared to the placebo group. Due to this, researchers have concluded that cinnamon may help relieve dysmenorrhea as it can decrease the intensity of the condition.

According to some studies, cinnamon’s unique healing benefits are mainly due to its three active chemicals known as cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl alcohol, and cinnamyl acetate. They have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects that may help ease menstrual cramps symptoms. Additionally, cinnamon’s antispasmodic ability also helps relax the pelvic muscles, therefore cutting down the pain levels during menstruation.

Ways to Get Rid Of The Discomfort Caused By Dysmenorrhea Using Cinnamon

First, we need to purchase the right cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon is much lighter than Cassia cinnamon) so that we can prevent issues with blood coagulation. Prefer for cinnamon sticks to have fresh ground cinnamon.

Cinnamon tea is effectively helpful at keeping menstrual cramps at bay. Simply make the tea by steeping ground cinnamon in hot water (0.5-2.5 grams of ground cinnamon for every ½ cup of hot water) for 15 minutes and then add honey. Drink it once a day before a monthly period starts and on the first day of the menstrual cycle.

Enjoy the taste of cinnamon by sprinkling it over snacks and main dishes or in coffee grounds when making a pot of coffee or combining it with herbs. Try having a toast with a bit of butter, cinnamon, and raw honey for a healthy snack.

Some of the best herbs we can combine with cinnamon are Motherwort and Szechwan Lovage Root. These two can effectively help in reducing menstrual cramps. Meanwhile, when it comes to heavy bleeding, Lady’s mantle is one of the best.