Both acute and chronic pain involve several interacting physiological mechanisms involving the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and immune system. While the most targeted pathways involve inflammation and pain receptors, smooth and skeletal muscle spasms are often implicated. Clinically, there are several herbal preparations that can target these cramps and reduce pain.
For example, Viburnum opulus, more commonly known as cramp bark, is an herb traditionally used to relieve all kinds of cramps, including abdominal muscle spasms and spasms associated with menstruation. Scutellaria lateriflora, commonly known as skullcap, is another herb traditionally used for its antispasmodic properties, but there are many other proven herbal remedies that have shown promise for relieving cramps and spasms. Ginger is a prime example.
Many people associate ginger with its anti-nausea abilities, but it has actually been extensively studied in the treatment of dysmenorrhea. Several trials confirm that ginger can effectively reduce menstrual pain when taken during the first 3-4 days of the menstrual cycle. In fact, ginger has been shown to be as effective as various anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or as a promising adjunct therapy to NSAID medications. Additionally, research trials have shown that ginger can decrease exercise-induced muscle soreness, improve recovery after exercise, reduce the severity and duration of migraines, and reduce joint pain in people with osteoarthritis.
Cassia cinnamon is another herb that has been studied for its ability to improve the symptoms of dysmenorrhea. Several studies have shown that cassia cinnamon is able to reduce the severity of menstrual pain, associated nausea, and vomiting, while also reducing the amount of menstrual bleeding. Similar to ginger, cinnamon has been studied alongside NSAID medications and has been shown to be equally effective with an impressive safety profile.
Finally, Foeniculum vulgare, also known as sweet fennel, is not only an effective remedy for digestive problems such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. Fennel's antispasmodic abilities provide these benefits, but it also possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which together may help explain its effectiveness in clinical trials in reducing pain in dysmenorrhea.
Cramp Matrix combines traditional antispasmodic plant extracts such as Viburnum opulus and Scutellaria lateriflora with evidence-based herbs such as Zingiber officinale, Cinnamomum aromaticum, and Foeniculum vulgare in high-potency extracts and standardizations. Additional nutrients such as magnesium and vitamin B6 round out the formula for muscle relaxation and neurotransmitter regulation to modulate pain perception, respectively. Magnesium is delivered as an amino acid chelate for optimal stability and absorption, while vitamin B6 is included in its active form of pyridoxal-5-phosphate.