Relief
How do we define dysmenorrhea?
Dysmenorrhea is a condition that causes many women pain before, but also during menstrual period. In some cases, the symptoms of dysmenorrhea are mild, while in others they are quite severe, preventing normal daily activity and degrading the quality of life of the women who experience them. Period pains can come either from normal causes (cases of primary dysmenorrhea), or from abnormal causes such as endometriosis or the existence of fibroids (secondary dysmenorrhea).
Mild dysmenorrhoea (primary) is due to normal uterine spasms, a phenomenon that tends to improve over the years or after the first pregnancy. The cases of primary dysmenorrhea – when the phenomenon does not arise from any pathological cause – are caused by hormonal changes during the cycle that cause intense contractions in the uterus. Prostaglandins are the hormones that are highly associated with the onset of contractions. The role of these contractions is twofold: on the one hand they create vasoconstriction and hemostasis in the uterus, and on the other hand they remove blood from it. These contractions create intense abdominal pain. The intensity of contractions can vary significantly, as the anatomy of each body plays a role. An important role in the presentation of the symptoms of dysmenorrhea is also psychology, which significantly affects how the symptoms are presented.
Curcumin and its benefits for reducing period pain
Based on the literature, curcumin has anti-inflammatory and anti-prostaglandin activity to relieve primary menstrual pain.
So far, extensive research has been conducted on the effect of curcumin on period pain. This herbal extract is believed to reduce primary dysmenorrhea. Curcumin has active ingredients that act as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory and analgesic. All studies concluded that curcumin is very effective in reducing the pain level of primary dysmenorrhoea and recommend curcumin supplementation before and during menstruation.
Curcumin can also reduce symptoms caused before menstruation. Curcumin is a safer alternative compared to anti-inflammatory drugs as it does not negatively affect kidney and liver function.
Study of the effectiveness of curcumin shows that curcumin has a significant effect in reducing period pain. A comparison of the effectiveness of curcumin and soy or ginger in reducing the level of period pain concluded that curcumin was more effective in reducing primary period pain than both substances.
In addition to relieving period pain, curcumin has many benefits. Research shows that curcumin helps with oxidative and inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, stress, hyperlipidemia, improves recovery from exercise-induced inflammation and muscle soreness, and may provide other health benefits. Research on the effects of curcumin on tumor growth has also been conducted and it has been found that curcumin inhibits the process of angiogenesis and metastasis in tumor growth.
Boswellia
Boswellia Serrata Extract, also referred to as Indian Frankincense, is a plant resin extract from the Boswellia Serrata tree, native to India. The resin collected from the Boswellia Serrata tree has a strong aroma and flavor and offers many health benefits. Boswellia Serrata extract has traditionally been used to treat inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic practices as a plant-based remedy.
Boswellia for pain
Boswellia produces boswellic acids in resin, which are the specific active ingredients that fight inflammation by blocking the formation of leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are molecules that cause inflammation. Boswellic acids prevent inflammatory white blood cells from infiltrating damaged tissue. Because boswellia reduces inflammation, it can be an effective pain reliever, which is extremely beneficial during periods.
When period cramps start, most women are not in the mood to wait for pain relief. This is why incorporating this dietary supplement into your daily routine will prepare you to manage the pain caused by period cramps. Studies have shown that unlike other alternative herbs, Boswellia serrata provides rapid relief. Additionally, long-term use of Boswellia does not lead to irritation or stomach ulcers, making it a safer and milder, yet effective option.
Advantages of Boswellia extract over traditional pain relievers
- Without Genetically Modified Substances
- 100% Natural
- Safe for long term use
- Does not irritate and does not cause stomach ulcers
Additional benefits of Boswellia
- Manages pain, swelling and immobility
- Manages inflammation
- Supports strong metabolism
- Can act as a mood booster
- It has antiviral properties and helps manage bacterial infections
- Can suppress pain and promote mobility for those with osteoarthritis
Boswellia does not have many side effects and is safe to use for extended periods. However, some people report stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, heartburn, itching, headache, swelling and general weakness. However, in general boswellia is safe for long-term use. While it is recommended not to combine antidepressants, using Boswellia alone can lift a person’s mood.
In conclusion,
- Period pain is caused by excessive levels of prostaglandins, hormones associated with pain and inflammation.
- There are natural and safe alternatives to over-the-counter pain relievers, such as supplementing with Boswellia Serrata, to help manage period pain.
- Boswellia is also known as Indian frankincense and has been used for centuries.
Other treatments that help relieve menstrual symptoms include warm baths, heating pads, vitamins, essential oils, and even orgasms.