There have been times where I have imagined a very longline of women up in heaven awaiting a chance to kick Eve for bringing this problem to all of womankind.
I debated a while about whether or not I'd want to join the line and there have been occasions that I thought I'd be very tempted.
There are several aspects of this monthly nuisance that can be addressed with some herbal preparations and a bit of knowledge.
It's a good thing, too.
I'm not sure I want to waste the first ten thousand years in heaven in that line.
Chamomile: This herb soothes and relaxes the mind, which can be in turmoil due to hormonal fluctuations.
It also contracts the uterus, which can help, as contractions are what expels the menses.
It may make you sleepy, also.
If you tend to have difficulties with insomnia around this time of the month, that can be a good thing.
Lavender:Both the scent and an infusion of lavender can help you unwind.
Mixed with the chamomile, it can boost the drowsiness effect.
It does not cause contractions, which may make it a better choice in some instances.
Raspberry Leaf:It's not just for pregnant women, this herb can make your period easier to handle.
It does not cause drowsiness, it just helps tone your uterus and relieves some of the cramps that can be so much a part of it.
A cup in the morning and another at night could reduce the pain greatly.
Keep Warm:This is extremely important to lessen cramping.
Your feet are particularly important in this endeavor.
You might also consider a hot water bottle on the abdomen, as well.
Elevation:Keep your feet propped up as much as you can, at least in the first day or so.
This will also help with swollen ankles that can be another side effect of menstruation.
Adequate Hydration:Dehydration affects every organ and system in the body.
The problem can be even worse during menstruation, as you are losing fluid.
Make sure that you drink plenty of water.
Remember, if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
Watch the Iron:This time of the month plays hob with your iron count.
If you aren't getting enough in your food, you could bleed longer and heavier than expected.
Ask your doctor to recommend a good supplement so that you get enough of this vital mineral.
Avoid Caffeine:That cup of coffee does more to you than you think.
It will increase irritability, dehydrate you and increase the pain of cramping.
If you take your vitamins with it, you're losing up to sixty percent of the nutritional value.
It's not worth it, believe me.
If you do decide to stop using caffeine, taper off gradually to avoid the withdrawal headache abrupt cessation can cause.
With these tips, you may be able to reduce the pain and other symptoms during your monthly cycle.
They may even help reduce the symptoms of PMS, which will please everyone in your household.
Remember to talk to your doctor before taking any new supplement, to make sure it is safe for you.
Tell the doctor about any other medical conditions, as well as any medications/supplements you already use.
This can reduce the side effects and help you avoid herb/drug interactions.