Fennel seeds can help manage period cramps and heavy flow, says my mom

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Are you tired of dealing with painful cramps and heavy bleeding every month? You are not alone. Many women experience these uncomfortable symptoms during their periods. But there's good news: Fennel seeds can help you manage it all, a home remedy my mom approves. Fennel seeds, often used in Indian cuisine, offer a surprising array of health benefits. Packed with essential oils and compounds, they have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. This makes them a great option for managing menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding. If you are looking for a natural and effective way to alleviate your menstrual symptoms, know more about the benefits of fennel seeds for periods.

What are fennel seeds?

Fennel seeds are small, dried seeds of the fennel plant, scientifically known as Foeniculum vulgare. They are greenish-brown, oval-shaped, and have a distinctly sweet, licorice-like flavour. Fennel seeds are widely used as a spice in various cuisines, particularly in Mediterranean, Indian, and Middle Eastern cooking, as found in a study published in the Biochemistry Research International. Fennel seeds are rich in essential nutrients, including fibre, antioxidants, and vitamins, contributing to their health benefits. They are also known for their medicinal properties and have been traditionally used to aid digestion, reduce bloating, manage period cramps and heavy period flow.

What are period cramps?

Period cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, are painful sensations that occur in the lower abdomen during menstruation. These cramps typically begin one to two days before or at the start of the menstrual period and can last for several days, according to a 2022 study published in the Korean Journal of Family Medicine. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that interferes with daily activities.

What are the causes of period cramps?

Period cramps are primarily caused by the natural processes involved in menstruation, but other factors can also contribute.

Prostaglandins: These are hormone-like chemicals produced by the uterus. High levels of prostaglandins cause the muscles of the uterus to contract strongly, which leads to pain and inflammation. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more severe cramps, as found in a study published in the Enfermería Clínica.

Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This condition can lead to menstrual pain and cramps, found in a study published in StatPearls.

Uterine fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy and painful periods, according to a study published in the Reproductive Science.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs that can lead to inflammation and pain during menstruation, as per a study published in StatPearls.

Adenomyosis: A condition where the inner lining of the uterus breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus, causing painful and heavy periods, according to a study published in StatPearls.

Cervical stenosis: In some women, the opening of the cervix is so small that it impedes menstrual flow, leading to increased pressure within the uterus and causing pain, found a study published in the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics.

IUD (intrauterine device): Some types of intrauterine devices used for birth control, particularly copper IUDs, can increase the severity of period cramps, found a study published in Contraception.

The intensity and duration of period cramps can vary significantly from one person to another, and they may improve with age or after childbirth.

What are the causes of heavy period flow?

Heavy period flow, also known as menorrhagia, is a common menstrual issue where the bleeding is abnormally heavy or prolonged. Gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Chetna Jain says that there are several factors that can cause heavy menstrual flow, including:

Hormonal imbalances: Oestrogen and progesterone hormones regulate the menstrual cycle. An imbalance can lead to excessive thickening of the uterine lining, which is shed during menstruation, resulting in heavier bleeding. Plus, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can disrupt menstrual cycles and cause heavy bleeding.

Uterine fibroids: These are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding by altering the shape of the uterus or increasing the surface area of the uterine lining.

Uterine polyps: Endometrial polyps are small, benign growths on the lining of the uterus that can lead to heavier and more prolonged periods.

Endometriosis: Endometrial tissue growth is a condition that occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it. This tissue can bleed during menstruation, leading to heavy and painful periods.

Adenomyosis: In adenomyosis, the lining of the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, causing heavy bleeding and pain.

Bleeding disorders: Conditions such as Von Willebrand Disease (blood disorder that prevents blood from clotting properly) or other blood clotting disorders can cause excessive bleeding during menstruation.

Intrauterine device (IUD): Some types of IUDs, particularly the copper IUD, can cause heavier menstrual bleeding as a side effect.

Medications: Blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin, can increase the risk of heavy menstrual bleeding. Certain hormone treatments can also disrupt menstrual cycles, leading to heavier bleeding.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): PID is a bacterial infection of the female reproductive organs which can cause inflammation and heavy menstrual bleeding.

If you or someone you know experiences unusually heavy menstrual bleeding, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Fennel seeds for periods: Can it help manage period cramps and heavy flow?

These fennel seeds contain natural properties that can help manage period cramps and heavy menstrual flow, as explained by the expert.

Antispasmodic properties: Fennel seeds help relax the muscles of the uterus, reducing the intensity of cramps by preventing painful contractions.

Phytoestrogens: These plant-based compounds mimic oestrogen and help balance hormonal levels, which can reduce the heaviness of menstrual bleeding.

Anti-inflammatory effects: Fennel seeds contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate pain associated with period cramps.

Analgesic effects: The mild analgesic (pain-relieving) properties of fennel seeds can help to reduce the discomfort and pain experienced during menstruation.

Fennel seeds for periods: Drink fennel tea to manage cramps

Here is a simple way to make fennel seeds tea to manage your periods:

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon of fennel seeds

1 cup of hot water

1 tablespoon of honey 1 teaspoon of lemon (optional)

Method:

Steep 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and sweeten with honey or lemon, if you need.

Drink this tea 2-3 times a day, especially during your menstrual cycle.

Note: While fennel seeds are generally safe, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.

Are there any side effects of fennel seeds?

Although fennel seeds are generally safe, they can have some side effects, as pointed out by the expert.

Allergic reactions: People allergic to fennel seeds may experience symptoms like rashes, itching, and respiratory problems such as difficulty breathing.

Hormonal effects: Due to their oestrogen-like properties, fennel seeds may affect hormonal balance, particularly in individuals with hormonal conditions.