Cramp Bark Herbal Tincture
Period pain is common during most women's menstrual cycle with most women experiencing some level of pain and discomfort. It’s most commonly in the form of painful muscle cramps but this can often be felt in the back and down the thighs and can be a dull constant pain or come in painful spasms. Some women experience them with every period whilst other women may only have them occasionally.
The pain is caused by the walls of the womb contracting, these are continuously happening but are usually very mild so most women are unaware of them, however during the menstrual cycle these contractions become more intense as the womb sheds its lining as part of the menstrual cycle. It’s these contractions that cause the pain and discomfort most women recognise as period pains.
Cramp Bark, Skunk Cabbage and Skullcap are all effective antispasmodic herbs that can help alleviate menstrual cramping and pain associated with periods. Cardamom is both an antioxidant and a diuretic which can help with blood circulation and ease the discomfort of bloating from water retention that so many women experience on or around their period which only adds to the pain and cramping as the walls of the women contract. Cayenne is a natural pain relieving and anti-inflammatory herb that acts as a natural pain reliever.
This herbal tincture can be added to your routine as a natural remedy for painful cramping during your monthly cycle.
INGREDIENTS
30g (2 tablespoons) - Cramp Bark (Viburnum Trilobum)
15g (1 tablespoon) - Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus Foetidus)
15g (1 tablespoon) - Scullcap (Scutellaria Lateriflora)
15g (1 teaspoon) - Cardamom Seeds (Elettaria Cardamomum)
15g (1 teaspoon) - Cayenne (Capsicum Frutescens)
INSTRUCTIONS
Add the herbs to 1 pint of either wine or brandy.
Leave to macerate (soak) for about 4 days at room temperature.
Strain the liquid.
Bottle and store at room temperature.
DOSAGE
Take 1 tablespoon 4 times per day.
SIDE EFFECTS
Although most herbs are generally considered safe to use there is the slight possibility of allergic reactions or adverse reactions when used with other medication although this is rare.
Cramp Bark Skunk Cabbage and Skullcap are considered safe to use, but should be avoided if pregnant and/or breastfeeding. Skunk Cabbage should also be avoided if you have or suffer with kidney stones and should not be eaten raw as its acidic properties can irritate the mouth and stomach.
Cardamom and Cayenne as generally considered safe to use with no known side effects although as with all herbs should not be used in large doses as they could irritate the stomach.