Cramp Bark Traditional Uses & Pregnancy
Welcome to a deep post about a very Ancient, Functional Herb. In case you have suffered from menstrual cramps, uterine cramps resulting from a threatened miscarriage, miscarrying or after delivery pains; you may find it beneficial to discover the ancient, historical abilities of Cramp Bark. This amazing herb, also known as Guelder Rose, Water Elder, European Cranberry bush, and Snowball Tree, boasted many health benefits. It originates from Europe and Asia, and the prominent part employed consists of its bark. I made some the other week, mixed in my favourite Bush Apple Syrup. Interesting decoction, I'll explain at the base how I made it. It was also on a Friday night, I have a post about these wild nights of Tea on the Blog.
Cramp Bark is remarkably efficient for immediate pain alleviation and other sudden physical occurrences needing immediate attention and care. However, it should only be incorporated into one's daily diet with some real knowledge of Herbs or guidance from a Herbalist. Otherwise you may want to experiment yourself but do so with attention as it is a powerful herb. The information we have here is purely historical and for your own research. So below let's look at these traditional stories and theories on Cramp Barks use, as well as up to date studies that have looked at this ancient herb.
Cramp bark is a valuable herb with exceptional uterine antispasmodic properties. As a relaxant, it can relieve smooth muscle contractions in various parts of the body, such as the intestines, airways, and uterus. In case of dysmenorrhea, where uterine lining sheds monthly, causing painful cramps, cramp bark can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of uterine contractions and muscle spasms, without adding the potential of liver or kidney damage unlike NSAIDs. It can be safely used several days before onset of menses to avoid undue discomfort. Cramp bark was also traditionally used to prevent miscarriage, especially when accompanied by uterine cramping with cervical dilation. In the early stages of pregnancy, cramp bark mixed with other herbs such as black haw, Partridgeberry, vitex, and wild yam can help avert threatened miscarriage. However, the use of vitex and wild yam during pregnancy should only be under the guidance of a skilled practitioner in herb medicine. Furthermore, if experiencing gynaecological exams, taking sister herbs can promote relaxation while gradually sedating nervous muscles, which in turn aides in making the procedure more comfortable while minimiSing pain. These herbs, known for their utertoic action, are great remedies for women coping with absent periods since they permit the muscles to relax correctly and efficiently.
Improved circulation is facilitated by relaxed muscles, leading to a better blood flow and efficient removal of body waste in the affected areas. Cramp bark works to specifically target the uterus, relaxing muscle tissues for increased circulation. This facilitates the elimination of toxins resulting in improved uterine health. Cramp bark also exhibits mild sedative properties which help soothe pain and promote relaxation, aiding in the reduction of anxiety, irritability, and nervous tension, inducing a general sense of well-being. Apart from being a relaxant, cramp bark also has astringent properties, reducing fluid engorgement through its drying effect, relieving inflammation and thus reducing pain. Acting as a nervine / an effective nerve tonic, it soothes painful sensations caused by nervous tension. Cramp bark can be very beneficial in reducing nervousness while improving pain. It can be a great natural aid for individuals dealing with examination-related tensions, helping to calm and soothe the overall medical experience, and ultimately making it less stressful.
Cramp Bark therefor was Historically useful
- Ovarian Cysts, Uterine fibroids, Endometriosis Pain.
- Part of a plan to manage heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Premenstrual migraine
- Dysmenorrhea
- PMS
- Miscarriage or Risk of.
- Post birth pain, was historically safe during breastfeeding
- Incontinence from weak pelvic floor muscles.
How it was Traditional Used
As a Decoction: Mix 1 teaspoon of Cramp Bark to 500ml of pure water (Gravity Filtered is our choice) in a non aluminium pot, bring to boil, cover and turn the heat down. Now you let the decoction simmer for at least 10mins. Then strain and serve, I added Bush Apple Syrup to taste and also it's a healthy syrup with benefits of its own.
Consumption: Drink 1/2 a cup of your Cramp Bark Tea 3 x Daily or if you really need can be consumed every 3-4 hours.
NOTE: A decoction is a liquid preparation where you boil plant parts in water. Decoctions are best for root or bark plant parts.
Try it out yourself, see how you get on, send us some pics on instagram , share your stories for others. When information is restricted, we must share more information. I hope you enjoyed todays history lesson about what peoples of the past learned and did. I enjoyed this tea and I'd love to hear your experiences.
