The Menstrual Herbarium

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13 Natural Herbs & Ingredients To Aid Cramps, PMS, Hormonal Acne and More

It can be difficult to marry the ideals of a healthy, natural lifestyle with the demands that our cycle imposes on us. Cramps, bad skin, mood swings, hormonal acne and other period-related symptoms can get so severe, we may turn to pharmaceutical pain-killers, dermatological supplements, mood stabilisers and various other products which offer quick relief to our discomfort, yet sometimes at a different cost.

It’s no secret that traditional medication (if used too frequently) can be heavy on our gut balance, bacterial flora and liver health. If you’re looking to try a more holistic approach, there are a number of other solutions you can turn to to accompany your wellness routine. 

Incorporating herbs, flowers and seeds into your feminine health management, is a very strong choice which draws from the infinite wealth of nature and the wisdom of women before us, improving our overall well-being, connection to our bodies and the earth.  

We are not scientists or medical professionals so we can’t guarantee that this advice will help with your particular symptoms (nor should it be treated diagnostically), however based on personal experience, research and centuries of generational knowledge, we consider these twelve natural ingredients to be the holy grails of a cycle well-spent. 

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Talk about longevity - yarrow is one of the earliest recognised medicinal plants in history. It rose to popularity back in the Middle Ages as a cure for allergies, wounds, inflammations and - topically - haemorrhages. 

Today, as a tea or oil, it holds the same benefits, helping to decrease the loss of blood on a heavy flow day. It also relaxes irritable bowel movements and uterine contractions, which relieves cramping. Some say it even helps to prevent ovarian cysts and reduces the risk of ovarian cancer. 

Fennel

An interesting and eclectic plant, consumed either as garnish or tea. According to history, it was used by Gladiators to support muscle strength and by Mediaeval mystics as a shield from demons. 

Period pain can feel pretty demonic too and, again, here’s fennel to the rescue. Interestingly, it is also considered an estrogenic agent which contributes to women’s hormonal balance and fertility, along with its many anti-inflammatory benefits. 

Mint

A household favourite and undeniable classic. Mint tea is enjoyed the world over for its refreshing taste and detoxifying power. It also works as a magical elixir for digestive issues, nausea, stomach pains and period cramps. 

The less processed the better so aim for 100% natural tea brands. Better yet, brew the leaves yourself and drink them aplenty during your period to relax your distressed uterus. You’ll come out on the other end an equally relaxed, glowing, toxin-free, clear-skinned goddess (with amazing breath). 

Nettle

If you’re feeling like a herbalist witch by now, expand your tea selection with nettle. Although its flavour is slightly stronger and more bitter than that of mint, it still makes for a delicious cleansing potion. The two can even be mixed together for double the effect. 

Nettle has numerous health benefits, mainly in the area of detoxification. It clears your body of negative influences, and similarly clears your skin of breakouts. Apart from the aesthetic aspects, it can also help to remineralise your body after losing blood. 

Maca Root

If you frequent organic pharmacies or natural supplement stores, you will have probably seen an abundance of maca root products in the women’s health section. This ayurvedic plant is an adaptogen - which means that it helps our organism adapt to changes in our internal and external environments. Needless to say, our cycles can feel like an emotional roller coaster so maca is a great natural remedy to consider.

It lowers anxiety, helps combat depression and eliminates the mental and physical fatigue which accompanies bleeding. Its ability to stimulate energy also contributes to a boost in libido, and can be helpful to those going through menopause or experiencing a hormonally-induced low. 

Ashwagandha

Another adaptogen on the list, ashwagandha is a shrub originating from India and carrying many positive benefits to women’s health. Most notably, it is highly effective in balancing hormonal levels and thus regulating the cycle (which has immense influence on hormone-related mood swings and depressions).

Ashwagandha is also known for boosting libido and promotes healthier and more satisfying sex lives, for both women and men. Its regular use helps prevent UTI’s and vaginal infections, meanwhile those wanting to get pregnant can benefit from a boost in fertility and reproductive health. 

Raspberry Leaf

Could the fruit be the least exciting part of a raspberry bush? Although less talked about, it's the leaves of a raspberry that hold the most powerful health benefits to women. 

Not only can they reduce period cramps and heavy bleeding, they are also effective in alleviating the negative symptoms of fibroids and endometriosis. The astringent qualities of the leaves can tone and tighten the uterine tissue and thus alleviate menstrual pain. 

Hibiscus

The vibrant hibiscus flowers are also popular teas. Their flavour is strong and tangy, while their contents are full of antioxidants which detoxify your body and help clean your period-wrought skin. 

Apart from the frequently-mentioned benefits of decreasing cramps and heavy bleeding, hibiscus is interestingly also rich in diuretic properties which help with water retention and bloating. 

Rosehip

It sounds romantic and it is. Rosehip tea is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, anti inflammatory agents, clears the urinary tract and kills bacteria. Not only does it strengthen your immunity but also helps with anaemia - a common side effect of heavy bleeding. 

We could all use some strength and cleansing during our period, especially when it comes in a rich red colour with an aromatherapeutic scent. 

Ginger

Easily accessible to everyone, ginger can be consumed raw, as juice, tablets or tea. It is said to contract uterine muscles and balance your hormones, which supports regulating your cycle and ensuring its painless course. 

Needless to say, it also boosts energy and immunity - a much needed kick on the most vulnerable days of the month. 

Shatavari

A holy grail for practitioners of ayurvedic medicine, this Indian adaptogen does it all. From lowering cortisol levels and the risks of depression, to reducing cramps, fatigue, skin problems and even muscle pain (including the infamous lower back struggle). 

For a one-stop-shop period solution, the shatavari root might be a good source of balance to incorporate into your health routine. 

Chamomile

Open up your kitchen cupboard and you’re bound to find chamomile tea somewhere. This gentle brew has a soft, warm taste which feels like a hug and carries many of the same benefits. 

It directly affects your dopamine and serotonin levels, bringing about a balanced feeling of calm, reducing mood swings and depressions, even stressful headaches. Chamomile is also relaxing to your uterus due to its antispasmodic qualities. It tackles cramps, stomach aches and nausea, allowing you to sit back, relax and bleed in peace. 

Seed Cycling

A recent viral trend in women’s health, seed cycling is believed to support your body and hormones at every stage of the month. It requires consuming a tablespoon of pumpkin, flax, sesame and sunflower seeds - each at a different phase of your cycle. 

Seeds are a source of fibre, vitamins and other nutrients which greatly accompany our natural seasons. Whether it’s boosting your fertility, aiding ovulation, regulating the cycle or nourishing you while bleeding, many turn to this technique in order to make the most out of their cycle and aid their overall nutrition.