 Lavender: Lavender makes me think of calm, soothing soaps or candles. Lavender is much more than that! The Latin name of the lavender plant, Lamiaceae, means “to wash”, which is a very common use throughout history. There are more than 50 species of the lavender group, and it is native to the Mediterranean basin, and is now spread out everywhere in the world! Lavender contains more than 100 different compounds that have lots of medicinal properties including anxiety-reducing, antimicrobial, pain-relieving, and anti-inflammatory properties. Back in ancient Rome, lavender would be used for bathing, cooking, and purifying the air with its fragrance. In today’s traditional medicine, lavender’s smell is thought to be useful for sedation and relaxation. Lavender is suggested to contain antibacterial and antifungal properties that are useful in treating topical infections like acne. It is said to reduce mood swings during menopause and to be helpful with menstrual cramps and emotional symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle by inhaling lavender. One randomized clinical trial in 2016 concluded that the use of lavender aromatherapy for two months may be effective in reducing the severity of pain in primary dysmenorrhea, a medical condition involving severe menstrual cramps (Nikjou et al., 2016). The Science Behind It: Lavender is said to work for menstrual cramps by inhaling the lavender, which is said to activate the parasympathetic system, which induces the feeling of relaxation. Lavender is also suggested to be a central nervous system depressant, which is useful as a calming agent. Potential Side Effects and Contraindications: Lavender may cause side effects such as confusion and nausea if taken orally. If applied topically, there may be sensitivities or allergic reactions to the sunlight. Consumption of any essential oils is not recommended and can cause poisoning even if small amounts are ingested/inhaled. Dr. Friso also recommends that lavender not ever be combined with sedatives, central nervous system depressants, cholesterol-lowering drugs, or anticonvulsants as lavender may increase their effects. Remember: Always talk to your doctor first!  Raspberry: When most of us think of raspberries, we think of freshly riped fruits and popping them into our mouths, or eating these berries while on top of some delicious chocolate cake! But actually, the raspberry plant is full of medicinal properties that have been used throughout centuries for its healing properties that have even been linked to fertility in Ancient Greece. The Raspberry plant is known in the Middle Ages as a soothing women’s tonic during the fertile years. The Rubus idaeus (aka raspberry) plant is native to Europe and Northern Asia. The North American First Nation tribes would frequently use raspberry to soothe labor pains, nausea, and soften contraction labors. In the Philippines, raspberry is known for women’s health and protection of the house. In folktales, it was used to symbolize kindness. Today’s traditional medicine uses raspberry for heavy and painful menstruation, morning sickness during pregnancy, and easing labor pains (Friso, 2021). The medicinal part of the raspberry plant is found in the leaves, roots, and it's fruit. Preparation of raspberry can be in the form of tea (infusion or leaf), or by supplements. Cosmetic preparation utilizes the oil from the raspberry seed (Friso, 2021). The Science Behind It: It is said that the reason raspberry helps relieve menstrual cramps is due to its main active compounds such as flavonoids, glycosides, and ketones, etc. Phenolic compounds are suggested to have antioxidant effects that help to dilate blood vessels and in turn, improve circulation, and help promote muscle relaxation (Friso, 2021). Potential Side Effects and Contraindications: children, breastfeeding women, pregnant women, and anyone with sensitivities to estrogen, may interact with anti-hypertensive drugs or antidiabetic medications (Friso, 2021). Remember: Always talk to your doctor first!  Cinnamon: Cinnamon, spice, and everything nice! Cinnamon may be a normal spice to have around during the holidays or in yummy desserts, but Professor Friso explains that is useful for much more than this. Cinnamon originated in Sri Lanka and India, and it is extracted from the bark of the Cinnamomum species. It is the bark, leaves, and root of cinnamon that extract essential oil, terpenoids, and phenolics. These compounds are what give cinnamon its antispasmodic, anti-clotting, and anti-inflammatory properties to help relieve menstrual pain (Friso, 2021). One study found in the Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal indicates that cinnamon has a significant effect on the reduction of pain, menstrual bleeding, nausea, and vomiting without side effects, and can be counted on as a safe and effective treatment for dysmenorrhea in young females (Jaafarpour et al. 2015). Dalene Barton (2021), certified herbalist and birth doula, says cinnamon has been used for thousands of years in Chinese traditional medicine and Ayurveda ‘to bring warmth to the uterus’, and reduce menstrual cramping. How to Prepare: Dr. Rima Chatterjee of Pearl Clinic, Kolkata recommends making cinnamon tea by stirring about ¼ teaspoon into some hot water, adding honey, and sipping slowly after waiting 4-5 minutes. She suggests drinking two to three cups per day 1 to 2 days before your period to help reduce menstrual cramps, and on the first day of your period to relieve cramps (Panwar, 2016). The Science Behind It: Dr. Friso (2021) states that cinnamon’s mode of action has not yet been well-studied, but it is thought that the terpenoids found in cinnamon have anti-inflammatory effects by blocking the production of nitric oxide and stimulating blood flow. Potential Side Effects and Contraindications: When used as a food additive at normal doses, side effects are rare. There is potential toxicity as cinnamon contains coumarin, a type of phenolic glycoside, that can be toxic to the liver in high doses. Cinnamon is known to have drug-herb interactions with statins, antibiotics, diabetic drugs, blood thinners, and cardiac medications. Dr. Friso (2021) warns against not taking cinnamon with any of these. She also cautions about the type of cinnamon you purchase because cassia cinnamon is generally found in U.S. supermarkets, and this has a higher content of coumarin compared to Ceylon cinnamon. Remember: Always speak with your healthcare provider first!  Motherwort: Leonurus cardiaca, aka motherwort, is a plant found in the mint family that has been used in many cultures for several health benefits, best known for heart support, stress support, and women’s uterine health (Gaia Herbs, 2021). It is native to South Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Back in the Middle Ages, Professor Friso says that motherwort was used as a calming herb to ‘remove melancholy and sorrow’, ‘improve cheerfulness’, and strengthen the heart. In the ol’ folktales, motherwort was said to ward off evil spirits! It was also used for many centuries in pregnancy to relieve anxiety or induce labor, as well as induce delayed periods. In an article found in Gaia Herbs, renowned herbalist Rosemary Gladstar discusses positive results for motherwort and combating ‘empty nest syndrome’ (Gaia Herbs, 2021). Early Greek physicians would use motherwort for ailments such as heart conditions related to hyperthyroidism, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, and heart palpitations related to anxiety, and to reduce blood pressure. The parts of the motherwort plant that are used for its medicinal properties are the parts that are above ground. They include many bioactive compounds like terpenoids, glycosides, phenolics, flavonoids (rutin and quercetin), tannins, and essential oil. How to Prepare: Motherwort is prepared in the form of tea, infusions, or herbal supplements sold over the counter. The Eclectic Herbal School of Medicine (2016) recommends a warm preparation or external use for relief of menstrual pains-1 oz of the dried herb either hot or cold to a pint of water 3x/day. If using as a tincture use 10 drops (4 ml) 3x/day. The Science Behind It: It is believed that the bioactive compounds found in motherwort have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. The alkaloid compound stimulates uterine contraction and helps to prevent bleeding (Friso, 2021). The alkaloid compound, specifically leonine, is attributed to uterotonic properties. Ursolic acid, a terpene, is attributed to its anti-inflammatory effects (Easley, 2015). Potential Side effects and Contraindications: There are possible side effects to look out for if trying motherwort, such as gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, stomach upset, etc.), uterine bleeding, drowsiness, or allergic reaction. It is advised to refrain from use when taking medications such as sedatives or central nervous system depressants as it can increase the effects of these drugs. It is also advised against use during pregnancy due to increased tone and contraction in uterine muscle (Friso, 2021). Remember: Always speak with your doctor first!  Red Clover: I know a thing or two about four-leaf clovers, but what about red clover? According to Dr. Friso, the red clover herb is in the legume family and it is usually grazed on by cattle. Other than being used as a cow snack, red clover is useful for pain associated w/ menses and menopause symptoms! It is buzzing around the fertility world because it is known as one of the best blood-purifying herbs, which is great for improving circulation, pregnancy preparation, and assisting with detoxifying environmental pollutants before conception! (Friso, 2021; Barton, 2021). Trifolium pratense, aka red clover, is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Africa. It is now spread throughout the world. Its leaves and flowers are edible parts, and its essential oil is used in aromatherapy and cosmetic products. The extract of red clover holds many bioactive compounds and essential nutrients including: phenolic isoflavones, phytohormones, and essential nutrients including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. It is used in traditional medicine today as a sedative, an expectorant (for cough), a topical treatment for skin inflammation, or to stimulate epidermal regulation. It has been used as a diuretic to help improve circulation, cleanse the liver, and relieve symptoms of menopause, menstrual cramps, and premenstrual syndrome (Friso, 2021). The Science Behind It: It is said that the reason red clover may be beneficial to assist with menstrual symptoms is due to its ingredient polyphenolic isoflavonoids, similar to the hormone estrogen. The magnesium and calcium found in red clover are beneficial in reducing menstrual cramps, as well as assisting with our body’s bone formation and smooth muscle function (Barton, 2021). How to Prepare: Red clover is prepared as a tea, infusion, plant extract, a supplement found in essential oils, and found in other products. Susun Weed, one of the most well-known Western herbalists, states she has been using this herb for years to treat infertility in women and irregular menstruation. She describes her preparation as using 1 oz of dried red clover blossoms, place in a mason jar, and covering the blossoms with boiling water. Cap the jar tightly, let it steep for about 4 hours, then strain and drink 1 to 3 cups a day. She states it can take up to several months before red clover takes its full effect on the body and is recommended at least 3 to 6 months of use if preparing for pregnancy (Barton, 2021). Potential Side Effects and Contraindications: Professor Friso discusses that red clover is safe in moderate amounts, but notes ingesting larger amounts may cause side effects including rash, allergy, headaches/muscle aches, nausea, vaginal bleeding, and slower blood clotting. It may interact with anticoagulants, birth control/estrogen pills. She advises use in individuals diagnosed with a hormone-sensitive cancer due to the estrogenic activity. Always speak with your doctor first! And remember gals, although these herbs and plants have been used for centuries for their medicinal and healing properties, they have not been trialed in enough studies for use in today’s traditional medicine so currently there’s not enough scientific-based evidence to prove the effectiveness of the medicinal properties of herbal supplements, which is why they have not been FDA approved! But if you speak with your healthcare provider, these may be considered a healthy alternative for you if you don’t like using over-the-counter drugs every month for your menstrual symptoms! Medical Disclaimer: The information in this post is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always work with your physician or qualified healthcare provider before adjusting medications or adding supplements. Resources -Barton, D. (2021, July 22). Cinnamon Benefits PCOS, Endometriosis, Uterine Fibroids & Menorrhagia. Natural Fertility Info. Retrieved January 19, 2023, from -Barton, D. (2021, July 19). Red Clover: Fertility herb and tonic. Natural Fertility Info. Retrieved January 20, 2023, from https://natural-fertility-info.com/cinnamon-benefits-pcos-endometriosis-uterine-fibroids-menorrhagia.html -Easley, T. (2016, December 5). Motherwort. Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine. Retrieved January 20, 2023, from https://eclecticschoolofherbalmedicine.com/motherwort/ -Gaia Herbs. (2018, March 22). Motherwort. Gaia Herbs. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/herbs/motherwort -Friso, Giulia. (2021). Plants for Muscles, Bones, and the Reproductive System. [lecture recording]. College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University. https://cals.cornell.edu/ -Jaafarpour, M., Hatefi, M., Najafi, F., Khajavikhan, J., & Khani, A. (2015). The effect of cinnamon on menstrual bleeding and systemic symptoms with primary dysmenorrhea. Iranian Red Crescent medical journal, 17(4), e27032. https://doi.org/10.5812/ircmj.17(4)2015.27032 -Nikjou, R., Kazemzadeh, R., Rostamnegad, M., Moshfegi, S., Karimollahi, M., & Salehi, H. (2016). The Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy on the Pain Severity of Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Triple-blind Randomized Clinical Trial. Annals of medical and health sciences research, 6(4), 211–215. https://doi.org/10.4103/amhsr.amhsr_527_14 -Panwar, T. (2016, May 29). Menstrual hygiene day: 8 natural ways to relieve period pain, stress. Hindustan Time. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from https://www.hindustantimes.com/health-and-fitness/menstrual-hygiene-day-8-natural-ways-to-relieve-period-pain-stress/story-zMGJhYWh6jXdGholt99hUL.html. Author: Whitney Baskett Reviewed by: ZenDeva Team Date of Last Update: 23 January 2023 Stock photos are free stock images from Pexels. Comments are closed.
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