Menstrual Cramps or Hormonal Imbalance? How Herbs Can Help

Hi, I’m Hilary. I’ll be honest—for much of my life, I didn’t fully understand how deeply period pain and hormonal health are connected. Like so many women, I treated my monthly cramps as an inevitable part of life—something to grit my teeth and push through. But as someone living with endometriosis, my period pain was more than just an inconvenience. It was intense, exhausting, and completely disruptive.

For years, I searched for relief, relying on quick fixes that only masked the pain. It wasn’t until I started digging deeper into hormonal health that everything changed. I realised that the pain I experienced wasn’t something I had to “just live with”—it was a signal from my body that it needed better care. That shift in perspective led me to holistic remedies, especially herbs, which not only eased my cramps but also helped me feel more balanced, supported, and in tune with my body.

As Co-Founder of The SABI, Holistic Nutritionist, and Product Developer, I’ve made it my mission to help other women find the relief I once searched for. Period symptoms—whether it’s pain, bloating, or fatigue—aren’t just random discomforts; they’re messages from your body asking for support. And when you nourish your cycle with the right foods, herbs, and holistic practices, you can feel lighter, stronger, and more in control of your health.

That’s why we created The SABI—to provide natural, effective solutions that work with your body, not against it. Whether you’re looking for a natural remedy for period pain or wondering how to reduce bloating during your cycle, there are real, lasting solutions beyond conventional painkillers.

Let’s explore how hormonal balance, holistic remedies, and herbal support can help you experience a better, more empowered period—every single month.

Is It Menstrual Cramps or Hormonal Imbalance?

For most women, menstrual cramps are caused by prostaglandins—chemical compounds released during menstruation to help shed the uterine lining. While prostaglandins are a normal part of the process, excessive levels can lead to intense pain, nausea, and inflammation.

But what if your period pain is more than just cramps? Hormonal imbalances—like high oestrogen, low progesterone, or elevated cortisol—can amplify period pain and trigger additional symptoms like bloating, mood swings, and fatigue. Understanding the connection between your hormones and your cycle is the first step toward relief.

The Hormonal Causes Behind Period Pain

1. High Oestrogen Levels (Oestrogen Dominance)

• When oestrogen levels are too high relative to progesterone, it can increase uterine contractions and inflammation, worsening cramps. This imbalance can also lead to water retention, making bloating during periods more noticeable.

2. Low Progesterone Levels

• Progesterone helps calm uterine muscles and reduce inflammation. A deficiency in this hormone can result in more intense cramps and irregular cycles.

3. Elevated Cortisol (Stress Hormone)

• Chronic stress leads to high cortisol, which can disrupt oestrogen and progesterone balance, intensifying pain and bloating.

How Herbs Can Support Hormonal Balance and Relieve Pain

Herbal remedies address both the physical symptoms of menstrual cramps and the underlying hormonal imbalances that exacerbate them. Unlike synthetic painkillers, herbs work with your body to reduce inflammation, regulate hormones, and restore balance over time.

1. Anti-Inflammatory Herbs for Period Pain

• Raspberry Leaf: A uterine tonic that reduces spasms and strengthens uterine muscles​​.

• Stinging Nettles: High in magnesium and calcium, nettles ease muscle tension and replenish nutrients lost during menstruation​​.

2. Hormone-Balancing Herbs

• Red Clover: Contains isoflavones that mimic oestrogen in the body, helping to regulate hormonal fluctuations​​.

• Holy Basil (Tulsi): An adaptogen that reduces cortisol and promotes progesterone balance, easing both physical pain and emotional stress​.

3. Herbs to Reduce Bloating During Periods

• Oat Straw: Calms the nervous system and supports digestion, reducing water retention and bloating​​.

• Hibiscus Flower: A natural diuretic that helps flush out excess fluid while providing antioxidants to combat inflammation​​.

Why The Gentle Period Blend Is the Perfect Solution

The Gentle Period Blend was created with women’s hormonal health in mind. Its carefully selected herbs target both the immediate discomfort of cramps and the underlying imbalances that contribute to period pain and bloating.

What Makes It Unique?

1. Therapeutic Dosages: Each ingredient is included at a level proven to provide relief, ensuring maximum efficacy.

2. Synergistic Formula: Herbs like raspberry leaf and nettles work together to reduce cramps, balance hormones, and ease bloating during periods.

3. All-Natural Ingredients: Free from additives, this tea offers a clean, natural remedy for period pain.

A Holistic Approach to Period Pain Relief

Combining herbal remedies with other holistic approaches can enhance their effectiveness. Here’s how:

1. Nutrition

• Focus on magnesium-rich foods like spinach, almonds, and avocado to relax muscles and reduce cramping.

2. Lifestyle Adjustments

• Practice stress-reducing techniques like yoga or meditation to lower cortisol levels and support hormone balance.

3. Hydration

• Staying hydrated with herbal teas like this hormone-supporting infusion can help flush out excess water and reduce bloating during periods.

Reclaim Your Cycle Naturally

Your period pain isn’t just a symptom to endure—it’s a message from your body. By addressing hormonal imbalances with herbs, nutrition, and lifestyle changes, you can find a natural remedy for period pain that works for you.

At The SABI, we believe in empowering women with solutions that honour the body’s natural rhythms. The Gentle Period Blend is here to support you every step of the way—so you can embrace your cycle with confidence and care.

References

1. Herbal Medicine for Primary Dysmenorrhea

2. Raspberry Leaf for Uterine Health

3. Adaptogens and Cortisol Regulation

4. Nettles for Inflammation and Nutrient Replenishment

HORMONAL & PROUD

Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI aims to change the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.

We offer you an invitation to get to know your body and its cycles better –– an invitation to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormonal cycle to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. Look for the right sources of information. Know that there is help, and know that you’re supported.

DISCLAIMER

The SABI blog and articles are not meant to instruct or advise on medical or health conditions, but to inform. The information and opinions presented here do not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals for your unique situation.