4 Recipes for Menstrual Health

October is a month dedicated to raising awareness about women's health and it's the perfect time to focus on natural ways to support menstrual health. For centuries, essential oils and herbs like Clary Sage Salvia sclarea, Chamomile Chamaemelum nobile, Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus, and Blue Cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides, have been used to alleviate the discomfort and symptoms associated with menstruation. From soothing cramps to balancing hormones, these powerful, nature-derived remedies offer gentle and effective support. 

Let’s take this month to prioritize self-care and embrace nature’s power to support women’s health. In this blog, we'll explore some recipes that can help you feel more balanced and nurtured throughout your cycle.

 

Menstrual Cramp Massage Blend

Ingredients

• 2 drops of Lavender oil Lavandula angustifolia
• 1 drop of Clary sage oil Salvia sclarea
• 1 drop of Rose oil Rosa damascena

Directions: 

Mix essential oils into one teaspoon (five milliliters) of almond oil and massage into the lower abdomen as often as needed.

 

Menstrual Regulation Infusion

Ingredients

• 1 ounce of Motherwort herb Leonurus cardiaca
• 1 ounce of Peppermint leaves Mentha ×piperita
• 1 ounce of Blue cohosh root Caulophyllum thalictroides

Directions: 

Mix all herbs together and store them in a dry-sealed container. Use two teaspoons of herb and one cup of boiling water to prepare an infusion. Steep for up to 30 minutes to extract the necessary active constituents, then strain. Take one cup of the infusion two to three times a day for the five days before and during menstruation.

 

 

Calcium Tea for PMS

Ingredients

• 1 ounce of Chamomile German flowers Matricaria recutita or Chamomile Roman flowers Chamaemelum nobile
• 1 ounce of Borage l eaves and flowers  Borago officinalis 
• 1 ounce of Oatstraw Avena sativa
• 1 pint of Apple juice

Directions: 

Prepare the oatstraw as a standard decoction, using one ounce to one pint of water. Simmer for at least 20 minutes. Cool the oatstraw decoction for five minutes and then pour it over the borage and chamomile. Cover and let it stand for 10 minutes. Strain and cool. Add the apple juice.

 

Menstrual Discomfort Tincture

Ingredients

• 1 ounce of Catnip herb Nepeta cataria
• 1 ounce of Motherwort herb Leonurus cardiaca
• 1 ounce of Peppermint leaves Mentha ×piperita
• 1 ounce of Raspberry leaves Rubus idaeus
• ½ ounce of Ginger root Zingiber officinale
• 1 pint of Vodka or brandy

Directions: 

Mix the herbs with the alcohol in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, such as a canning or preserving jar. Make sure to completely cover the herbs with the alcohol to prevent any mold growth. Keep the tincture in a tightly closed jar in a cool, dark spot for approximately two weeks and gently shake the tincture two to three times every day.

After two weeks, strain the tincture through filter paper, a coffee filter, cheesecloth, or muslin. You may need to strain your tincture two or even three times to remove all of the herb solids. Leaving solids in your tincture may lead to mold and spoilage.

Use 20 to 30 drops in water three to four times daily for adults.

 

By incorporating these natural recipes into your wellness routine, you can take a proactive approach to supporting your menstrual health. As October shines a light on women's health, it's the perfect opportunity to prioritize self-care. Remember, every body is unique, so explore these recipes and listen to what resonates with you, nurturing your well-being throughout your cycle.

Learn more ways to incorporate herbs into your daily life. Explore Herbal Medicine programs at American College of Healthcare Sciences. Shop a wide range of high-quality, sustainable essential oils and herbs at the Apothecary Shoppe. 

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Always use herbs and essential oils with caution and keep out of reach of children. Use particular caution when pregnant or nursing. Always check contraindications and think safety first! The statements herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.