Ayurveda looks at a women’s menstrual cycle through the lens of vata, pitta or kapha doshas. The quantity or days of bleeding along with the discomfort informs which dosha dominates the monthly cycle. This can differ from a woman’s dominant constitution. Imbalances are not always the same as an individual’s dosha.
Here are 5 Tuesday Tips that can help relieve and prevent menstrual cramps for all doshas.
# 1 Relax with a warm castor oil pack on your lower abdomen. This can help relieve cramps or discomforts that come when menstrating. Plus the warmth feel good!
#2 A shot of aloe vera* juice (about 1-2 tablespoons) with a pinch of black pepper or a teaspoon of ginger juice. When I take this in about 45 minutes my cramps have subsided. It also helps relive bloating and gas. Take this a couple of times a day until cramps have disappeared.
#3 Prevention is the key. A week before your period, start taking 1 tablespoon of aloe vera* juice 3xs a day or a shot before going to bed. When I do this regularly I usually do not experience menstrual discomfort.
#4. When cherries are in season, eat 10 cherries on an empty stomach starting 10 days before your cycle begins.
#5. A week prior to your cycle, make a tea with equal parts cumin coriander and fennel. Drink 1-3 cups daily. The carminative properties of the spices will help remove accumulated toxins aka ama from the body, while increasing your digestive fire. As a result, it will reduce inflammation, bloating, breast tenderness, water retention and constipation. It will take time, but it works!
*Aloe vera juice although good for all body types, can be cooling and a bit drying. This is why balancing it with warming pepper or ginger juice helps to balance it. However, if you find it does not work for you discontinue or reduce the quantity. There are other options—don’t give up! Every body is different and finding a solution that works for you may take some time.
