Benefits and how to use cinnamon for period pain

The most dreadful thing about periods is menstrual cramps. Everyone’s experience of period pain, also known as dysmenorrhea is different. The pain may range from tolerable to totally incapacitating. Well, I belong to the latter half of the population. After years of combatting excess period pain, I finally went to my mom for a natural way to deal with period pain. Thanks to the treasure trove of remedies she has, she recommended that I try cinnamon for period pain and it worked for me. While it proved beneficial to me, I had to check with an expert if it is suitable for others.

Is cinnamon good for period pain?

Cinnamon, also known as dalchini, is a ubiquitous spice in the kitchen popular for its rich aroma and natural sweetness. While it has been a staple in Indian households for centuries, people hardly know of its benefits. It is a herb that can help relieve period pain. “Cinnamon contains beneficial elements, including zinc, manganese, carbohydrates, protein, iron, and vitamins. It has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory characteristics that are extremely good for women’s health. It is even referred to as a mystical spice that helps with period discomfort as well,” says Ayurveda expert Dr Chanchal Sharma.

For women suffering from excruciating pain during periods, cinnamon may work as a quick remedy that provides relief. Cinnamon contains antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial in treating premenstrual symptoms and menstrual cramps. A study published in the Iranian Red Cresent Medical Journal found that cinnamon contains properties that reduce pain during periods, menstrual bleeding, nausea, and vomiting with primary dysmenorrhea without side effects.

Cinnamon also promotes menstrual regularity and hormonal balance that helps manage insulin levels, which lowers the risk of heart disease and is advantageous to women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, adds the expert.

Also Read: 5 home remedies to fight period cramps

How to use cinnamon for period pain?

If you want to try cinnamon to get relief from period pain, you should consult a doctor first and then try these methods:

1. Cinnamon tea

If your period doesn’t let you sleep at night, you can sip on a boiling cup of cinnamon tea for some relief. Plus, it is super easy to prepare. Boil some cinnamon sticks in water, and add some honer after draining the sticks. The expert recommends drinking it twice before or during your period to get relief from period pain.

2. Add to food

Known for enhancing flavour, why not add cinnamon to your diet? It contains properties that help reduce severe bleeding, weakness, or dizziness, which can be extremely uncomfortable for women. Cinnamon powder can be used in porridge, smoothies, and baked products to provide a nutritional boost, she advises.

Also Read: Love cinnamon? Here’s how you can use it to get the maximum health benefits

Who should avoid using cinnamon for period pain?

While cinnamon is safe to use for a lot of people, it can be harmful to some.

• You should avoid using it if you are allergic to it.
• Pregnant women should exercise caution when taking it, since excessive use may affect their liver and uterus.

It is important to consult with your healthcare practitioner before using it.

Are there any side effects of using cinnamon for period pain?

Cinnamon is a healthy spice when used in moderate amounts but it can be harmful when used in a large amount. It may cause cancer, mouth sores, and other issues related to digestion. If you are taking any medicine then it’s compulsory to consult with your doctor before using it because it may react with certain medicines and cause discomfort, says the expert.

While cinnamon can be an effective solution to get rid of period pain, it is not an alternative to medication. Make sure you are consulting a doctor to avoid any problems.