Applying coconut oil on your navel may reduce menstrual cramps, says my mom

Menstruation has always been a roller-coaster ride for me, and menstrual cramps have always been the dreadful highlight of this time. Thanks to my mother’s quick home remedy for menstrual cramps, I was able to get through my periods smoothly. She suggested that I put some coconut oil in the navel to get some relief from menstrual cramps. She says the navel is considered the body’s center, representing the source of life and vitality, and applying coconut oil on the navel relaxes the muscles and provides a natural, calming treatment against menstrual cramps because of its anti-inflammatory qualities. While my mother approves it, it needs some validation from an expert as well. So, let us check out if putting coconut oil in the navel is an effective home remedy for menstrual cramps or not.

What are the causes of menstrual cramps?

“Menstrual cramps or pain during periods is a very common condition. About 60 percent of women have mild cramps during their period. But about 5-15 percent of people have severe period pain, which affects their daily activities. Menstrual cramps are caused by contractions in the uterus as it sheds its lining during menstruation. These contractions can cause pain and discomfort, says obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Astha Dayal.

According to a 2022 study published in the Korean Journal of Family Medicine, dysmenorrhea is the medical term used to describe painful menstrual periods. The pain typically begins just before the period and subsides after a few days. Hormone-like substances (prostaglandins) involved in pain and inflammation trigger uterine muscle contractions. Higher levels of prostaglandins are also associated with more severe menstrual cramps.

Does using coconut oil on your navel help reduce period cramps?

Coconut oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to relax muscles, giving you relief from menstrual cramps, according to a 2023 study published in the International Journal of Nursing Research,  Another research published in Hindawi journal suggests that essential oils like lavender, sage, rose, marjoram, cinnamon, and clove, when mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut oil can help ease period cramps when massaged on the navel and around the abdomen area, especially when used with other oils. The essential oils of plants give off a smell to provide aromatherapy. Coconut oil as a carrier works by safely carrying the essential oil into your skin and helping to spread the oil over a large area.

How to apply coconut oil on the navel to reduce menstrual cramps?

Warm a small amount of coconut oil and gently massage it onto your navel area in a circular motion to get rid of menstrual cramps. This can help improve blood circulation and reduce cramping.

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Not only does it help to ease menstrual cramps but the entire body, including your skin, benefits when you oil the navel. As described in our Vedas and Ayurveda, oiling the navel is thought to be related to various veins in your body, and oiling can help you heal from a variety of ailments besides alleviating menstrual cramps such as managing upset stomach, promoting fertility, reducing belly fat and improving skin health,” says the expert.

Keep this in mind!

You can also massage a small amount of coconut oil on your abdomen once per day for at least one week before your period begins. However, using coconut oil on the navel area just before or during the onset of menstrual cramps provides maximum effectiveness.

Are there any side effects of applying coconut oil in the navel?

While there are no side effects of using coconut oil in the navel, if you are allergic to coconut oil, do not apply it on the skin. Plus, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor before incorporating this natural cure method in your menstrual cycle.