Natural Remedies for Heavy Periods

A period is considered heavy (also called menorrhagia) if you:

• Need to change your pad, tampon, or menstrual cup every 1-2 hours.
• Bleed for more than 7 days.
• Pass large blood clots (bigger than a 10p coin).
• Feel exhausted, dizzy, or weak due to blood loss.

If this sounds like you, it's worth looking into possible causes and natural ways to support your body.

There are many reasons your period might be heavier than usual, including:

• Hormonal Imbalances – Too much oestrogen or not enough progesterone can cause a thicker uterine lining, leading to heavy bleeding.
• Iron Deficiency – Low iron can actually make bleeding worse because your blood doesn’t clot as efficiently.
• Thyroid Issues – An underactive thyroid can make periods longer and heavier.
• Fibroids or Polyps – Non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause excessive bleeding.
• Stress & Poor Diet – High stress, processed foods, and toxins can mess with your hormones, making periods unpredictable.

If you're looking for a natural way to lighten your flow and feel better, try:

• Iron-Rich Foods – Leafy greens, lentils, pumpkin seeds, and red meat help replenish lost iron.
• Herbal Support – Herbs like Nettle, Raspberry Leaf, Yarrow, and Shepherd’s Purse can help tone the uterus and slow heavy bleeding.
• Magnesium – Found in dark chocolate, nuts, and spinach, magnesium helps relax muscles and balance hormones.
• Reduce Inflammatory Foods – Cut down on sugar, dairy, and processed foods, which can make period symptoms worse.
• Support Your Liver – Your liver helps clear excess oestrogen. Support it by drinking lemon water, eating cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cabbage), and avoiding alcohol and toxins.

Yes! Stress triggers cortisol (the stress hormone), which can throw off your balance of oestrogen and progesterone. This can lead to irregular or heavy periods. Managing stress with meditation, deep breathing, light exercise, and enough sleep can help keep your cycle in check.

Yes! Many herbal formulas combine plant-based ingredients to help balance hormones and support menstrual health. Look for blends with:

• Motherwort – Helps regulate periods and reduce cramping.
• Nettle – Supports iron levels and reduces excessive bleeding.
• Dandelion – Supports liver detox and hormone balance.
• Fennel – Eases period pain and bloating.
• Elecampane – Traditionally used for hormonal imbalances.

It depends on the cause of your heavy periods and how consistently you use natural remedies. Some people notice a difference within one cycle, while for others, it can take a few months of supporting their body with herbs, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.

While natural remedies can be super helpful, you should check in with a doctor if:

• You’re soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for multiple hours in a row.
• Your period lasts more than 10 days.
• You feel extremely weak, dizzy, or have shortness of breath.
• Your periods are getting heavier over time instead of improving.

A doctor can help rule out conditions like fibroids, thyroid issues, or bleeding disorders.

Yes! Many conventional pads and tampons contain synthetic materials and chemicals that can irritate your body. Switching to organic cotton pads, menstrual cups, or period underwear can be a gentler option that supports vaginal and hormone health.

Absolutely! Light movement like yoga, walking, or stretching can improve circulation, reduce stress, and help balance hormones. However, if you’re feeling weak or lightheaded from heavy bleeding, it’s okay to take it easy and rest.

Start by:

• Eating more iron-rich and anti-inflammatory foods.
• Managing stress with mindfulness or gentle movement.
• Trying herbs that support menstrual health.
• Limiting alcohol, processed foods, and hormone-disrupting toxins.
• Listening to your body and resting when needed.