If you experience pain and cramping these are 2 of my favourite herbs that are potent anti-inflammatories, acting much like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Midol).
GINGER
Significant pain reduction is expected over 72 hours of dosing or the first 3 days of your cycle (Jenabi, et al., 2014)
Dosing 2 days prior to onset of menses and then the first 72 hours of flow significantly reduces duration of pain as well as intensity (Rahnama, et al. 2012)
DOSE: 600 – 1200mg/d
CINNAMON
Significant pain reduction is expected within 1-4 hours of dosing (Osayande, et al., 2014)
Reduction of associated symptoms including nausea, vomiting and heavy flow (Jaafarpour, et al., 2015)
Reduction of pain intensity over time with repeated protocol or use each cycle (Jahangirifar, et al., 2018)
DOSE: 2.5g/day
**Therapeutic dose is so important when talking about supplements and herbs. The research cited has been done with standardized extracts at therapeutic dose. While eating ginger and cinnamon has a multitude of health benefits it won’t be enough to combat your cramps. Talk to your health care provider about dose and if these herbs may be a good option for you!