Menstrual discomfort is a common yet frustrating experience for many women. Period pain, or dysmenorrhea, is often driven by excessive inflammation and prostaglandin production, which can cause uterine contractions, cramping, and discomfort. Fortunately, nature offers powerful allies to support menstrual health. Sea moss combined with ginger, and turmeric—key ingredients in Nature’s Farmer Sea’s Ginger Ninja Sea Moss Gel—can help soothe period pain by addressing inflammation, muscle relaxation, and overall hormonal balance.
The Role of Prostaglandins in Period Pain
Prostaglandins are hormone-like compounds that regulate various bodily functions, including inflammation and uterine contractions. During menstruation, the body releases high levels of prostaglandins to help shed the uterine lining. However, excessive prostaglandin production can lead to heightened inflammation, stronger contractions, and more intense period pain. Targeting prostaglandin activity and inflammatory pathways is key to relieving menstrual cramps.
Magnesium: A Natural Muscle Relaxant
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in muscle relaxation and nervous system regulation. It works by counteracting calcium’s excitatory effects on muscle tissue, preventing excessive contractions that contribute to cramping. Additionally, magnesium modulates prostaglandin production, reducing inflammation and easing menstrual discomfort
Many individuals experience a drop in magnesium levels before and during menstruation, exacerbating symptoms like cramping, irritability, and fatigue. Sea moss is naturally rich in bioavailable magnesium, making it an excellent whole-food supplement for replenishing this vital mineral and supporting menstrual health.
Ginger: Anti-inflammatory and Prostaglandin Modulator
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a well-studied herbal remedy for menstrual pain, largely due to its ability to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. Ginger’s active constituents, such as gingerols and shogaols, have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce period pain and bloating. Research has shown that ginger can be as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for relieving menstrual cramps.
Ginger also supports circulation, which helps to relax the uterine muscles and improve blood flow, further easing discomfort.
Turmeric: Anti-Inflammatory and Hormonal Balance
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains curcumin, a powerful compound known for its ability to regulate inflammatory pathways. Curcumin works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which is involved in prostaglandin production. By reducing COX-2 activity, turmeric helps lower inflammation and menstrual pain.
Additionally, turmeric supports liver function, which plays a crucial role in hormone metabolism. A well-functioning liver helps process excess estrogen, preventing hormonal imbalances that can contribute to worsened PMS symptoms.
A Whole-Foods Approach for Menstrual Health
While individual supplements can be beneficial, a whole-food approach is essential for long-term menstrual health. Nutrient-dense foods rich in essential minerals, healthy fats, and antioxidants help balance hormones, regulate inflammation, and support overall well-being. Sea moss, as a mineral-rich superfood, is a powerful addition to a balanced diet, offering a natural way to nourish the body and ease period discomfort.
By incorporating Ginger Ninja Sea Moss Gel—with its blend of sea moss, magnesium, ginger, and turmeric—into your routine, you can support your body holistically during your cycle.
A reminder—painful periods, while common, are not normal. It’s so important to get to the root cause of what’s driving your pain. Whether it’s inflammation, hormone imbalances, or stress— seeing a qualified health practitioner can help you get clarity and a plan that’s right for your body.
Written by studying naturopath and recipe developer Gené Schesser.
References
Abdollahi, M., Salehi, H., & Akbari, V. (2022). The effect of turmeric and curcumin
supplementation on primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 287, 114924. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2022.114924
Jenabi, E., Ebrahimzadeh, S., & Shamshirgaran, S. M. (2020). The effect of ginger for relieving of primary dysmenorrhea: A meta-analysis. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research,
25(4), 273–279. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijnmr.IJNMR_184_19
Parazzini, F., Di Martino, M., Chatenoud, L., & Benedetto, C. (2017). Magnesium in the gynecological practice: A literature review. Magnesium Research, 30(1), 1–8.
https://doi.org/10.1684/mrh.2017.0422
