What’s Your Cramp Style?

By Nora Simmons

Get rid of gut-wrenching cramps—without maxing out on Midol. Kathy Thorpe, CHom, a homeopath in Boulder, Colorado, reveals how different homeopathic remedies can target your unique cramping style.

Colocynthis eases the gripping cramps that improve with pressure and leave you doubled up in bed, clutching your belly.
Magnesia phosphorica soothes shooting cramps in your lower abdomen that can be relieved with heat and gentle pressure.
Cimicifuga racemosa (aka black cohosh) relieves violent cramps, low-back pain, and menstrual headaches that ease up when you lie down. Also helps with those painful periods where intense cramps come with a heavy flow.

Dosing: For moderate symptoms pick a 6c or 12c concentration, two to three times a day. For severe cramps, use a 30c formula up to twice a day, for no longer than three days. Stop taking the remedies as soon as symptoms improve.
—Nora Simmons