Herbal Remedies by Symptom
Menstrual cramps — Medicinal Plants & Herbal Remedies
The Omnia Sana plant database documents 40 medicinal plants traditionally used for menstrual cramps. Each is rated by strength of evidence and linked to its full monograph and cited scientific sources.
Also known as: period pain, dysmenorrhea, dysmenorrhoea, cramps, menstrual complaint.
Venotonic / vasoconstrictive support for chronic venous insufficiency (heavy, tired, swollen legs and varicose veins) - a meta-analysis of a Ruscus-based combination (with hesperidin methyl chalcone and vitamin C) significantly reduced pain, cramps, heaviness and paraesthesia versus placebo
Antispasmodic for menstrual cramps (relaxes uterine smooth muscle)
Relieves primary dysmenorrhoea (menstrual) pain - meta-analyses of RCTs find fennel reduces pain intensity versus placebo, comparable to mefenamic acid
Tones the uterus and eases menstrual flow and cramps (traditional)
Antispasmodic / analgesic for menstrual cramps and muscle spasm (antinociceptive in animal models)
Educational information compiled from the Omnia Sana plant database. Not medical advice — always consult a qualified practitioner before using medicinal plants.