5 ancient teas that can help reduce menstrual cramps
Menstrual cramps are no joke. They are painful, exhausting, and can affect day-to-day activities. While hot water bags and painkillers may offer temporary relief, that's not always enough, especially in the long term.
For centuries, women have relied on herbal teas to ease menstrual cramps. Well, they really work. Here are five ancient herbal teas that can help relieve pain from menstrual cramps.
Red raspberry leaf tea
Brew some raspberry leaf tea to ease the pain of menstrual cramps. This tea is made from the leaves of raspberry plants. Well, this tea does not taste like raspberries. It has a mild taste and resembles black tea. These leaves contain fragarine, a compound believed to strengthen pelvic muscles and reduce uterine spasms. It can significantly help with the
menstrual pain
.
You can prepare by adding 1–2 teaspoons of dried leaves to hot water and brew it for 10 minutes.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is indeed a superstar. It was used in ancient Egypt and Rome for its calming properties.
Chamomile
tea is a go-to for menstrual relief. Its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic compounds, like apigenin, help relax muscles and reduce cramping. Though chamomile tea does not directly affect menstrual cramps, it can improve sleep and reduce fatigue.
The antioxidants may help reduce inflammation.
Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea has been used to relieve menstrual cramps since ancient Greece. It contains menthol, a natural muscle relaxant. This cooling compound may help soothe uterine contractions and ease cramps. A 2019
study
found that the menthol in peppermint oil smoothens muscle spasms, and thereby reduce painful stomach cramps. To make this tea, steep 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
Drinking peppermint tea can also improve digestion and reduce bloating.
Cinnamon tea
Most women crave something sweet during menstruation, and guess what? Cinnamon tea can satisfy that sweet tooth and also help ease the pain. It's naturally sweet and spicy flavour makes for a comforting, refreshing, and relaxing drink. A staple in ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and circulation-boosting properties.
This helps to reduce menstrual pain by improving blood flow and relaxing uterine muscles.
A 2020
study
found that cinnamon supplementation can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress levels in humans. Though this tea has many benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation to avoid overstimulation.
Ginger tea
(Pic courtesy: iStock)
Well, the good old ginger tea can never go wrong! Ginger has been used in Asian and Indian healing practices for ages for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. This spicy root has an active compound called gingerol, may reduce prostaglandin levels, which trigger menstrual cramps. A 2015
study
found that women who consumed 750-2000 mg of ginger powder during the first 3-4 days of their period had reduced period pain.
Ronnie Coleman Hospitalised: Fans Alarmed Over Sudden Medical Emergency
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new dietary or herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any existing health conditions.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
'Not real doctors'? Chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi fires back in viral Doctor's Day spat
Image credits: X/@TheKhelIndia Indian Chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi has recently been making headlines for his viral spat with a doctor on X. The 30-year-old chess player recently took to X to wish his family a happy National Doctor's Day on July 1st. A social media user with the handle 'TheLiverDoc' commented on Gujrathi's post that none of his family members were "really doctors." Ever since, the two have been engaged in an online verbal war that seems to have no end. On July 1st, Gujrathi posted a photo of his family on X writing, "Happy Doctor's Day to my entire family." When asked about the medical specialities of his family members by a person in the comments, he revealed that his father is an Ayurvedic migraine specialist, his wife is an MD Homoeopathy, his mom practices cosmetology and his sister is a physiotherapist. Sometime later, 'TheLiverDoc' reposted Gujrathi's post writing, "I am sorry but none of them are really doctors." Gujrathi responded strongly to the comment writing, Your entire brand and personality is built on insulting others. While you chase retweets by tearing people down, my family quietly heals lives without needing a spotlight. They've helped more people than your ego can count. Stay in your lane. And for a change, try being useful." 'TheLiverDoc' who claimed to be a certified internist with a doctorate in hepatology and liver transplant medicine then took to the social media platform to pen a detailed response clarifying that he meant no offence to the chess player's family and was making a point from a professional standpoint. He explained how Doctor's Day is celebrated as the birth and death anniversary of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy, one of India's most revered physicians and how the practitioners of Ayurveda , Homeopathy, Cosmetology and Physiotherapy are not "clinical physicians" and the practices themselves are not "realistic clinical medicine." He added how Gujrathi's ignorance of science and health affects the public perception of realistic healthcare and pseudoscientific practices, adding that the medicines he mentioned were "alternate medicine" that is not proven to work. The man clarified his credentials adding that he has 260 peer-reviewed scientific publications, 4400 citations, and an h-index of 30. "Calling out medical misinformation is what I do apart from being a full-time doctor. I suggest you stay in your lane and discuss more on chess. Sorry for the checkmate. And for a change, talk about chess and try being useful. All the best for your future matches," ended the man. Social media reactions Image credits: X/@theliverdr People on X have been commenting under TheLiverDoc's post condemning his comments on Gujrathi's family and on Ayurveda not being a medicinal practice. "Original healing science of India since ancient times is Ayurveda. Homoeopathy is modern day Ayurveda. Allopathy is a fraud science of which you are a practitioner," wrote a man to TheLiverDoc. "Which "medicines" existed before "science" came to play?" probed another. "Someone celebrates their birthday on X. They: 'Woohoo! Goodbye 30, hello 31!' 🎉 TL Doctor: I am sorry, but you are nearing death. There is nothing scientific about it - just Earth doing another lap around the sun." quipped another X user.
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Time of India
New COVID strain 'Stratus': Experts warn of a strange symptom
Image credits: iStock Experts in the UK have warned of a new Covid variant called 'Stratus' that could drive a new wave of infections. Scientifically known as XFG, this strain is thought to be more infectious than the previous strains due to its mutations that help evade the immune system. According to the data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Stratus has now become the dominant COVID-19 strain in England, going from accounting for about 10% of all Covid cases in May to almost 40% of all cases in mid-June. Stratus, which is a descendant of the super-virulent Omicron, is known as a Frankenstein or 'recombinant' strain, meaning it emerged when a person was infected with two Covid strains at once, which became a new hybrid variant. Both strains of Stratus- the original XFG and the spin-off XFG.3 are 'rapidly spreading' said Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick University to MailOnline. "Given that immunity to Covid is waning in the population due to a decline in uptake of the spring booster jab and the reduction of Covid infections in recent months, more people will be susceptible to infection with XFG and XFG.3." "This could lead to a new wave of infection but it's difficult to predict the extent of this wave," he added. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo Can Stratus cause more severe illness? Image credits: iStock According to Young, currently, there is no evidence that proves that Stratus causes more severe illness. He added that getting a Covid vaccine was 'very likely' to prevent severe illness and hospitalisation. WHO (World Health Organization) declared the strain as a 'variant under monitoring' while assessing its overall risk as 'low' However, the organisation also pointed to the variant having a significant growth advantage when compared to other strains with it currently accounting for 22% of cases recorded worldwide. What are the symptoms of the Stratus strain? Image credits: iStock Most of the symptoms of Stratus are similar to the previous strains. According to the NHS, these symptoms include shortness of breath, loss or change to smell or taste, feeling tired or exhausted, high temperature or shivering, blocked or runny nose, aching body, continuous cough, sore throat, headache, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, and feeling sick. However, according to Dr Kaywaan Khan, Harley Street GP and Founder of Hannah London Clinic, one of the most noticeable symptoms of the Stratus variant is hoarseness, which includes a scratchy or raspy voice. The doctor added that the symptoms tend to be mild to moderate in general and if a person tests positive, they must stay at home and isolate as Stratus is highly contagious added the doctor in conversation with Cosmopolitan UK.
Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
How much can daily spoonful of jamun seed powder help control diabetes? Here's what science and Ayurveda say
Jamun, also known as Indian blackberry, is a deep purple fruit packed with health benefits and vibrant flavor. From Ayurveda to medical science, they are proven to help regulate blood sugar levels and aid in detoxification. But did you know that the seeds of this seasonal fruit are equally nourishing? This piece of information explores the benefits of consuming jamun seeds and the right way to consume them. Scroll down to read the details. Why jamun seed powder works Live Events How it helps people with diabetes How to take jamun seed powder With warm water: A traditional method, usually taken before meals. Sprinkled on food: Mix into smoothies, salads or yoghurt. In capsules: Handy for those who dislike the bitter taste. Before meals: Helps manage blood sugar rise after eating. On an empty stomach (optional): Some Ayurvedic practitioners believe this boosts its digestive benefits. Side effects and warnings Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia): Risk increases if taken with insulin or other diabetic drugs. Constipation: A few people may experience digestion-related discomfort. Allergic reactions: Rare but possible in some individuals. Drug interactions: It may interfere with the effect of diabetes medicines. What you may notice over time Improved blood sugar levels Reduced sugar cravings Better focus and energy Lower HbA1c levels (a marker of long-term sugar control) Potential support to insulin-producing cells Improved organ function (especially pancreas, liver and kidneys) Should you add jamun seed powder to your routine? (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel With diabetes affecting millions across the globe, many are turning to time-tested natural solutions to support their health alongside prescribed treatments. One such remedy rooted in Ayurvedic tradition is jamun seed powder , made from the seeds of the Indian blackberry (Syzygium cumini). Known for its role in blood sugar regulation, this humble seed is now gaining popularity in the modern wellness explore why this powder is worth considering if you're looking to better manage diabetes the natural way, with proper medical guidance, of centuries, Ayurvedic practitioners have used jamun seed powder to manage digestive issues and blood sugar. Its strength lies in two powerful plant compounds:Jamboline: Helps slow down the transformation of starch into sugar in the digestive tract, preventing blood sugar spikes after Supports insulin function by improving the body's sensitivity to it and encouraging its natural production by the addition, jamun seed powder offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, protecting vital organs like the liver and kidneys, organs often under stress in long-term of the biggest advantages is its ability to reduce insulin resistance. This means the body can process glucose more effectively, helping bring blood sugar under slowing down how carbohydrates are broken down, jamun seed powder helps prevent the sudden sugar spikes that usually follow a studies show jamun seed compounds may help regenerate beta cells — the cells in the pancreas responsible for making rich antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, shielding key organs often damaged by high blood sugar better metabolic control, regular use may lower the chances of developing complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision general recommended dose is 1 to 2 teaspoons daily, but you should always consult a doctor before adding it to your routine, especially if you're on diabetes to consume it:Best time to consume:Jamun seed powder is generally safe, but certain side effects can appear, especially if mixed with medication:Note: Pregnant or breastfeeding women and those with kidney issues should avoid it without consulting a healthcare 2–4 weeks:In 8–12 weeks:Jamun seed powder is a widely available, affordable and traditional supplement that can complement diabetes care when used correctly. However, it should never replace prescribed medicine. Instead, it can be part of a broader health approach, including a healthy diet, regular activity, and you're considering it, speak to your doctor first. When used wisely, this Ayurvedic superfood might offer your body just the extra support it This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
