Every month, like clockwork, it hits you: that fiery ball of hell burning through your pelvis.
You’ve tried everything: hot water bottles, pain tablets, bananas, deep breathing, a fountain of chocolate… no dice. Enter this ancient, super common herb, that’s legit cured period pains — and that’s only the half of it. We’re not kidding.
It’s Called Buchu
It’s a plant endemic to the Western Cape, and has been around for ages. People aren’t generally aware of its health benefits (of which there are many), but it was cultivated and used medicinally by the Khoisan. Buchu was traditionally harvested in the wild, but today it’s sustainably sourced from cultivated fields. (Cape Kingdom Nutraceuticals, a company that acquires and studies the plant, have an agreement that recognises the value of the plant as something the San and Khoi have known for generations.)
It’s got proven medicinal benefits, such as its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and diuretic and detoxifying properties, amongst others. Sure, it’s not the best-tasting thing in the world, but pick any of its superpowers and join the club.
READ MORE: 5 Types Of Period Cramps That Could Signal A Serious Problem
You’ll Be Immune To Winter
Sniffles? What are those? Buchu has a cocktail of naturally occurring components including quercetin, rutin, hesperidin, diosmin, diosphenol and vitamins A, B, and E. Quercetin, one of the chemicals, is an antioxidant associated with blocking histamines, the pesky things that keep you clogged up when the seasons change. It’s also ace for relieving inflammation, including joint pain and eczema flare-ups.
READ MORE: Why Are Some Periods Worse Than Others?
You’ll Be Super Regular
Buchu is a natural detoxifying agent: its been traditionally used as a diuretic, meaning it aids the flushing out of toxins from your body. Sipping on this herb also means you’ll be hydrated — and less prone to discomfort in your tummy.
READ MORE: Whoopi Goldberg Just Released A Marijuana “Cure” — For Period Cramps
You Can Kiss Period Pains Goodbye
We’re not sure why, but Buchu really helps relieve period pain. It could be because period pain is associated with inflammation (as was only recently discovered, but I’m pretty sure we knew this all along), and Buchu is a natural anti-inflammatory substance. It could also be because uterine flow contractions inhibit the flow of blood, while Buchu promotes blood flow.
If you’re not a fan of the taste, check out Buchulife — they’ve got a range of products, from flavoured teas and sparkling waters to First Aid Gel, which can be applied to open wounds and niggly joints.
Want more? Check out these foods with more mood-boosting powers than chocolate, or how to use your star sign to fall pregnant — no joke.
