JOY FEELINGS MAGAZINE July issue 2106 | Page 26

And read the label for dosing instructions to be sure you don't accidentally take too many. Turn to Tea to Calm Menstrual Cramps Certain teas may help relieve menstrual cramps, says Sonya Angelone, RDN in the San Francisco Bay Area. Research on herbal teas for menstrual pain relief is scarce, say experts, but teas have been used traditionally and can help. Because some of the herbs may act as estrogens, ask your doctor first before using one, especially if you have a history of a hormone-related cancer or take blood-thinning drugs. Fish oil, vitamin B1, or a combo of both can significantly lessen period cramp pain. One example of an herbal tea that people use for menstrual discomfort is cramp bark, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Boil 2 teaspoons of the bark in a cup of water, simmer for about 15 minutes, and drink it three times a day. Just clear this remedy with your doctor first, especially if you're on diuretics for blood pressure or on lithium. Tea with peppermint oil may also help, Angelone says. She advises her patients with cramps to start sipping the tea that gives them relief a week or so before they expect their period. Ask your doctor if that might work for you. Try Fish Oil and Vitamin B1