It is not today that herbal teas They are used as an alternative to help treat certain health issues. In addition to being comforting, the drink can also help regulate the menstrual cycle.
A study carried out by researchers at the Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey, in Mexico, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), evaluated the impact of using teas on menstruation.
The research evaluated more than 180 species of herbs, including chamomile, cinnamon and ginger, known for their anti-inflammatory properties that act to relieve cramps and cycle irregularities.
Pharmacist Paula Molari Abdo, member of SBRAFH (Brazilian Society of Hospital Pharmacy) and technical director of Formularium, explains that there is a wide variety of teas traditionally used for menstrual problems.
“In addition to helping with menstrual regulation, some teas can also alleviate associated symptoms, such as cramps and bloating. Additionally, many teas offer other health benefits, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties”, he highlights.
5 teas to regulate the menstrual cycle
Herbal teas can regulate hormone levels and reduce inflammation while providing essential vitamins and minerals for health and well-being. Check out some options below:
Chamomile tea
Chamomile is one of the most used medicinal plants worldwide and is listed in the pharmacopoeia of at least 26 countries. Traditionally, it is used to reduce anxiety (common in PMS) and also to treat chronic cramps and excessive menstrual bleeding.
“Chamomile has camazulene, apigenin and flavonoids, properties with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant actions, which help to relieve symptoms such as cramps, anxiety and irritability, in addition to containing heavy menstrual flow”, explains Paula.
Ginger tea
Ginger root contains compounds such as gingerol and ginger dione, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, properties that help reduce the discomfort caused by colic.
According to a review of studies, there are more than 60 active antioxidants present in ginger, such as gingerols and zingerone, with important properties that reduce inflammation, particularly in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.
Cinnamon tea
Results from several studies demonstrate that consuming natural cinnamon tea reduces pain associated with menstruation and helps control heavy menstrual flow.
“Cinnamon has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antifungal and antibacterial properties, in addition to improving nausea and diarrhea”, adds the pharmacist.
Also according to research, cinnamon has been used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome, which has the symptoms of cramps, absence of menstruation or amenorrhea, and abnormal menstruation or oligomenorrhea.
vitex tea
According to the pharmaceutical company, the extract of Vitex agnus-castusor “Tree of Chastity”, contains iridoids and flavonoids, which promote hormonal modulation, regulating the secretion of prolactin, a hormone that can balance the menstrual cycle.
Studies show that the Vitex agnus-castus It can reduce the symptoms of menopause and, especially, PMS, being one of the most popular active ingredients for those suffering from premenstrual syndrome.
Dong Quai Tea
Traditional in Chinese medicine, but popular around the world, dong quai tea promises to facilitate blood circulation. Postpartum, menstruating, menopausal women and those with crippling cramps benefit from dong quai tea, also known as “female ginseng.”
“Radix Angelica Sinensis, commonly known as Angelica sinensis or Dong Quai, contains a variety of compounds, including organic acids, polysaccharides and flavones, which are known for their beneficial properties, such as facilitating blood circulation, relieving pain and treating menstrual disorders.” , concludes Paula Molari Abdo.
