Never get cramps again!

If there is one thing that unites women across the world, it’s the sheer agony of period cramps! Fortunately, nature has put forth a bevy of cures that soothe the agony and women everywhere turn to these potent pain-busting potions when even the prescription-strength tablets fail to work. And they are always willing to share their communal knowledge as I have found out on my wanderings through the globe. Here are the top 5 tried, tested and timeless teas and tisanes that are a part of indigenous knowledge from times immemorial.


Chinese Ginger Tea

Pour a cup of boiling water over one tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. Allow the ginger to steep for at least 5 minutes, then strain and drink as a tea.

Mexican Oregano Potion

Place one tablespoon of dried oregano in a tea ball or a small square of muslin cloth. Pour a cup of boiling water over the oregano and allow it to steep for 5 minutes. Remove the tea ball and drink the tea while it is hot. Repeat if necessary.

South American Chamomile Cure

Pour a cup of boiling water over one tablespoon of fresh chamomile flowers (or half a tablespoon of dried chamomile) and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Then strain out the flowers, add some honey and lemon (to taste) and drink while hot. Voila!

Guyanese Ginger & Clove Blend

Put 2 teaspoons of powdered ginger, 5 whole cloves and one cup of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and allow to simmer for 5 minutes. Strain and drink while hot.

Jamaican Wonder Water

Place a quarter cup of white overproof rum (bonus points if you can get your hands on Wray & Nephew’s 151-Proof White Rum) and some ice cubes in a cocktail glass. Add a splash of water and a twist of lemon. Repeat judiciously! This really works… so well, in fact, that it’s my favourite remedy of the lot!

What’s your go-to remedy for tackling the cruel cramps?