The anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties of ginger root may help relieve menstrual cramps. Does this symptom bother you? Find out how to use it.
Menstrual cramps are a very common ailment in the female population. They are characterized by causing pain in the lower abdomen before and during the menstrual period. Do you want to treat it naturally? Don’t miss out on this ginger remedy for menstrual cramps.
Ginger is a natural spice that has been used since ancient times for gastronomic and medicinal purposes. It has a slight spicy flavor that usually improves the flavor of different preparations. In addition, its components help to calm various types of ailments and health problems. Go ahead and try it!
Menstrual pain or dysmenorrhea is usually related to hormonal changes that occur in the uterus at the end of the ovulation cycle. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as physical discomfort, low mood, and sometimes fever. Why use ginger for menstrual cramps?
Ginger belongs to the Zingiberaceae family , the same family of which turmeric is a part. Traditionally it has been used to soothe various types of ailments, as it contains active ingredients that act as analgesics and anti-inflammatories. It is also recommended as an ally to calm nausea and improve digestion.
In this particular case, we suggest using ginger for menstrual cramps, since its antispasmodic effect can promote pain relief. The spice concentrates a significant amount of gingerol, a bioactive compound that gives it these important properties.
In an investigation of its effects on calming dysmenorrhea, 150 women consumed 1 gram of powdered ginger per day for the first three days of their menstrual period. In the end, it was concluded that this spice reduces pain in a similar way to drugs such as mefenamic acid and ibuprofen.
How to make a ginger remedy for menstrual cramps
The best way to take advantage of ginger for menstrual cramps is by using the fresh root as an infusion. Of course, you can also take advantage of the spice in smoothies, juices and other preparations. The infusion should preferably be consumed 2 or 3 days before the period.
Ingredients
1 teaspoon of fresh ginger (5 g)
1 cup of water (250 ml)
Preparation
To start, grate the fresh ginger.
Next, add it to a cup of boiling water.
Cover the preparation and let it rest for 10 minutes.
After this time, filter it with a strainer and serve it.
Consumption mode
Drink a cup of infusion before the onset of menstruation.
Extend your consumption during the days of the period.
You can take one or two cups a day, as you consider necessary.
Ginger lemonade for menstrual cramps
Another useful recipe to take advantage of the properties of ginger in the treatment of menstrual cramps is the refreshing ginger lemonade. Some prefer this option, as it tastes more pleasant. Do you dare to try it? Find out how to prepare it below.
Ingredients
The juice of 1/2 lemon
1 glass of water (200 ml)
1 teaspoon of grated ginger (5 g)
Honey (15 g)
Preparation
First, squeeze the juice of half a lemon and dilute it in a glass of boiling water.
Then add the grated ginger, cover the drink and let it rest.
For a more refreshing drink, put it in the refrigerator until cool.
Finally, sweeten with a tablespoon of honey.
Consumption mode
Drink the drink at the first sign of menstrual cramps.
If you prefer, take it from the days before the period for best effects.
Avoid consuming more than two glasses a day.
Risks and contraindications
Despite being a spice with multiple health properties, ginger is not exempt from producing unwanted reactions. Therefore, it must be taken into account that it can interact with other medications in case of being under other treatments.
Similarly, consuming ginger excessively can cause excess acidity, gas, heartburn, and other discomforts. Because of this, the recommended amounts should not be exceeded. It is important to consult your doctor beforehand in case of heart disease, gallstones or pregnancy.
Do you suffer from annoying menstrual cramps? If you have not yet used ginger for its treatment, start preparing it now. It is a good option if you want to avoid conventional pain relievers and medications.