7 Drug-Free Alternatives for Treating Menstrual Cramps and PMS

Your liver will thank you.

7 Drug-Free Alternatives for Treating Menstrual Cramps and PMS
Credit: iStock/AndeyPopov

*Affiliate disclosure.

7 Drug-Free Alternatives for Treating Menstrual Cramps and PMS
Credit: iStock/AndeyPopov

If you’re one of the millions of women who suffer each month with pain, bloating, irritability, and other related symptoms as a result of menstrual cramps and PMS, then this list is for you.

With awareness at an all-time high about what we’re putting into our bodies, you may be looking for natural alternatives to the prescription and over-the-counter drugs that are notoriously harsh on the liver and stomach.

Relying on Mother Earth’s medicine and the latest technology in menstrual cramp relief, we’re bringing you innovative and original products that use all-natural elements, like herbs, homeopathy, and plant-based ingredients, as well as drug-free devices that show promising results.

“Using natural remedies promotes natural healing in the body with fewer side effects and [is] safer than using prescription drugs, especially for longer-term conditions such as PMS, which about 75 percent of women experience,” says Yanghee Paik, co-founder, and CEO of Rael, a leading natural and organic feminine care brand.

In addition to herbal and tech aids, it’s also important to take extra good care of yourself, like our article on menstrual cramp remedies suggests.

Other precautions, such as avoiding inflammatory foods, taking your multivitamin, doing some light exercises, getting extra sleep, and even having orgasms are all great ways to feel more comfortable during your cycle.

1. Natural Herbal Heating Patch

Rael Herbal Heating Patch

Rael, a leading name in natural and organic feminine care, has released a revolutionary Natural Herbal Healing Patch that provides up to six hours of on-the-go therapeutic warming (131F-149F degrees) infused with a blend of soothing herbs.

Rael’s patches include Lemon Balm to reduce swelling, Rose Hip to improve mood and energy, Jasmine for a calming effect, Juniper Berry to relieve abdominal pain, and Dandelion Root to improve digestion and immunity.

They fit seamlessly under your clothes and adhere directly to your underwear for discreet relief from menstrual cramps and symptoms of PMS. In addition to portability (they’re individually wrapped), we also like how affordable they are–it’s just $5.50 for a pack of three. Combine these with other natural remedies or necessary medications as needed.

2. Homeopathic Tablets

The special blend of Hyland’s Homeopathic Menstrual Cramps tablets contains medicinal minerals and plants designed to target radiating menstrual cramps that are made better by pressure and heat and made worse by motion.

Gentle on the body, many women have been able to do away with taking NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, and replacing them with Hyland’s tablets.

Others, who have found they still need over-the-counter medications, combine the Hyland’s with their preferred pain reliever for additional, drug-free relief. Get a three-pack of bottles (a total of 300 tablets) for $27.02.

3. CBD Suppositories

Foria CBD Suppositories

A truly innovative and effective method for keeping menstrual cramps at bay, Foria Wellness, a leader in CBD-rich products to enhance your sexual health and lifestyle, has introduced Basics CBD Suppositories designed to “deliver the soothing, tension-melting effects of CBD directly where it’s needed.”

Formulated for menstrual cramp and PMS relief during your period, these provide pelvic and lumbar muscular relaxation, soothing local inflammation and discomfort.

Women love these so much and claim that they completely relieve their cramps in some cases. They’re also highly recommended for use prior to sex to eliminate pain and symptoms of vulvodynia.

4. Hemp Infused Patch

The Good Patch

Applied directly to the skin, preferably in a “venous” area on the abdomen, The Good Patch is an all-natural transdermal treatment option. Premium hemp (15 mg), black cohosh, and menthol combine to treat hormone- and PMS-related discomfort and relieve minor aches and pains.

Discreet and easy to transport, you can leave this patch on for up to 12 hours. Get one (or a few) for $12 each.

5. PMS Support Herbal Tincture

Moon Cycle Tincture

This highly-rated, natural tincture, Moon Cycle from Cattail Apothecary, is made by a woman for women and is described as “a reproductive system tonic that helps relieve tension while addressing the pain, cramping, bloating and headache symptoms associated with the menstruation cycle.”

The formula is brandy infused with an organic blend of cramp bark, black cohosh, skullcap, yarrow, wood betony, red raspberry leaf, and rose hips.

One woman who used this product described her experiences as “life-changing” writing that she hasn’t “taken a single OTC pain pill” since ordering two months prior. One fluid ounce bottle of the Moon Cycle tincture sells for $17.

6. Herbal PMS Pills

Go With the Flow PMS Relief

If pills are your preferred method for beating the menstrual cramp blues, then you may want to check out the hormone balancing supplement from Happy Healthy Hippie called Go With The Flow.

Designed for menopause and PMS relief, this vegan blend is plant-based and consists of four powerful herbs, chaste berry, gelatinized maca root, black cohosh root, and dong quai. It’s said to help improve symptoms such as hot flashes, restlessness, mood swings, irritability, cramping, bloating, tenderness, nervousness, and lack of energy.

We loved reading the feedback about one woman who was able to “combat” her struggle with PMDD and severe PMS symptoms. She called it a “game changer” and recommended it to everyone she knows. Get a bottle for $29.95.

7. Drug-Free Nerve Stimulation

Livia for Cramp Relief

This innovative, drug-free device is referred to as the “off switch for menstrual pain relief.” FDA approved and surprisingly compact, Livia measures two inches by two inches and can bring cramp relief in as little as 30 seconds.

Weighing just two ounces, this lightweight electronic device is a rechargeable pack that can be affixed to your pants and is attached to two electrodes in the shape of flower pads that are placed directly on your abdomen. These electrodes emit gentle micro-pulses that create a slight tingling sensation designed to counteract pain.

“The technology behind Livia is based on the Gate Control Theory, which states that non-painful signals close the gate to painful signals – blocking the sensation of pain before it’s even felt,” claims the Livia website. “In other words, Livia sends stimulating pulses from the surface of the skin to the nerve strands, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain.”

According to many reviews, Livia at the very least helps ease their cramps, even if it doesn’t eliminate them completely, and this is without taking any medication at all. Try it for yourself–one complete Livia kit is $158.

Related on Organic Authority
9 Natural Menstrual Cramp Remedies That Will Totally Change Your Life…Period!
Ah Yes, The Orgasm & 6 More Unusual Methods to Cramp Relief
3 Sustainable Menstrual Cups to Simplify Your Cycle

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After starting out in public relations, Jamie finished college with a BFA in sustainable interior design. This combination of ... More about Jamie Duncan
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