Stress Management

Caprifoliaceae

Anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, nervine, hypotensive, astringent, emmenagogue.

Cramp Bark has a reputation as a relaxer of muscular tension and spasm. It has two main areas of use. Firstly in muscular cramps and secondly in ovarian and uterine muscle problems. Cramp Bark will relax the uterus and so relieve painful cramps associated with periods (dysmenorrhoea). In a similar way it may be used to protect from threatened miscarriage. Its astringent action gives it a role in the treatment of excessive blood loss in periods and especially bleeding associated with the menopause.

Combinations : For the relief of cramp cramp bark may be combined with Prickly Ash and Wild Yam. For uterine and ovarian pains or threatened miscarriage it may be used with Black Haw and Valerian.

Found in Europe, Britain and America.

Decoction: Put 2 teaspoonfuls of the dried bark into a cup of water and bring to the boil. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk hot three times a day.

Tincture: Take 4-8 ml of the tincture three times a day.

No information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.