Many women tend to experience abdominal pain during their menstruation. What to do if your hot water bottle or menstrual panties are not enough to relieve the discomfort during your period? Discover the soothing effects of phytotherapy!
1- Borage, what is that?
Borage is a plant that produces small blue star-shaped flowers. It originates from Syria and can be found in the western Mediterranean region as well as in North and South America. As an oil or in capsule form, it is a very effective natural remedy for menstrual pain. It has no unwanted side effects, and the list of its benefits is long:
- Provides moisture and increases the elasticity of dry skin
- Scientifically proven anti-inflammatory effect
- Reduces the bleeding
- Restoreshormonal balance
- Relieves menstrual pain
Its moisturizing properties make borage your secret weapon againstskin aging. Some people even believe that it has a positive effect on fertility, but so far no serious studies have been conducted to prove this. However, it can help you better cope with your menstrual cycle and the menopause . You can use borage oil for massages and its dried flowers as tea or as dietary supplements in the form of capsules.
2- Evening primrose, what is that?
The evening primrose is a plant native to North America that produces yellow flowers. It is known for its antioxidant effect but also for its benefits in treating menstrual discomforts:
- Relieves uterine cramps
- Relieves headaches and irritability
- Reduces water retention and swollen breasts
- Reduces menopausal symptoms
In phytotherapy, evening primrose seeds are mainly used to relieve menstrual pain. This plant oil can be taken orally or rubbed onto the skin. It can also be used as cooking oil or balm. Warning, evening primrose is contraindicated for epileptics!
3- The combination of evening primrose and borage in phytotherapy
The combination of evening primrose and borage is an excellent dietary supplement for women suffering from menstrual pain. The benefits of their combination for the menstrual cycle can be particularly explained by their content of polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid. These two plants, which are rich in Vitamin E, help to keep the mucous membranes healthy and assist in preventing dry skin when combined. You can enjoy their benefits in various forms:
- tea
- massage oil
- tablets
- cooking oil
The two plants should be consumed as part of a varied and balanced diet . Borage is prohibited for pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as for people suffering from liver diseases . For safety reasons, pregnant and breastfeeding women should rather use evening primrose oil on the skin instead of taking it. Its use is also not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Therefore, the oils and capsules should be stored out of their reach.
"Evening primrose and borage should be consumed in moderation to prevent the occurrence of side effects such as bloating and loose stools. The recommendations for daily use are as follows:"
- 3 to 6 g evening primrose oil
- 1 teaspoon borage oil
- 1 capsule in dietary supplements that contain both plants
The information and advice in this article are not a substitute for consultation or diagnosis by medical professionals. In any case, consult a doctor to properly assess your health condition.
4- Where and how can one obtain these plants?
There are numerous websites that specialize in natural products. However, in any case, pay attention to the traceability of the oils and capsules you order online. Additionally, you should prefer evening primrose and borage from organic farming to ensure their quality.
You can also find these plants in herbal shops as well as in pharmacies and drugstores. Seek advice from specialists, such as naturopaths, and follow their recommendations before deciding on a product.
If you are a fan of homemade oils and want to make your own oils, there are a few things to consider. To fully retain their anti-inflammatory properties and effectively combat menstrual pain, the borage and evening primrose flowers must be fresh. Here is a small guide with the steps to follow:
- April: Planting seeds
- July-September: Harvesting flowers
- Soak the flowers in olive oil for 3 days.
To make an anti-wrinkle lotion, you can also steep the flowers in mineral water and add some plant-based glycerin.
Making your own remedies to relieve menstrual pain is no easy task. Evening primrose and borage are annual plants. They do not bloom all year round, but only once. Evening primrose is harvested from late autumn to the following spring, while borage is harvested between spring and summer. Additionally, the evening primrose flowers are particularly short-lived. They open in the evening and wither the next day. But don't let these small technical issues discourage you! You can buy dried flowers in stores all year round.
