A knot in your stomach, fatigue that creeps in unexpectedly, fluctuating moods… The menstrual cycle, far from being linear, goes through different phases, each with its own challenges. What if plants could become your allies at each stage?
Used for millennia in many cultures, medicinal plants offer gentle and natural support for managing menstruation and restoring hormonal balance. Whether in herbal teas, essential oils, or targeted treatments, they relieve, soothe, and regenerate.
In this article, we'll guide you through the world of plants that support your menstrual cycle, offering practical advice and ideas for incorporating them into your routine. And of course, we'll explain how to combine them with your reusable period underwear or your favorite period swimsuit for a holistic, gentle, and body-friendly approach.
1. Better understand the phases of the menstrual cycle
Before getting to the heart of the matter, let's lay the groundwork. The menstrual cycle lasts on average 28 days (but can vary from 21 to 35 days depending on the woman) and is divided into four main phases:
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Menstrual phase (Day 1 to Day 5) : the uterus sheds the uterine lining → menstruation.
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Follicular phase (Day 1 to Day 14) : the body prepares for ovulation, hormonal boost.
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Ovulation (around day 14) : peak of fertility.
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Luteal phase (Days 15 to 28) : rise in progesterone, drop in energy, possible PMS.
Each phase of your cycle has different needs. Some plants will be calming, others invigorating or balancing. The idea is to adapt your use to the time of your cycle to get the most benefits.
2. During menstruation: relieving pain and promoting relaxation
Plants to favor
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Yarrow : an antispasmodic, it relieves uterine cramps.
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Raspberry : a tonic for the uterus, it soothes pain and regulates flow.
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Roman chamomile : relaxing, ideal as an infusion to soothe irritability.
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Ginger : stimulates circulation, reduces pain and nausea.
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Peppermint : in essential oil or infusion, it relaxes muscles.
Wellness advice
During your period, put on your favorite heavy-flow period underwear and settle in with a hot water bottle and a soothing herbal tea. Let yourself breathe, slow down, and listen to your body.
3. After menstruation: renewed energy and mental clarity
Plants to favor
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Nettle : remineralizing, it replenishes your body with iron and trace elements.
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Ginseng : a general tonic, ideal for regaining your energy.
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Holy basil (tulsi) : adaptogen, it promotes concentration and serenity.
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Rosemary : detoxifying, it supports the liver and digestion.
Wellness advice
Take advantage of this time to get moving, create, play sports, or dedicate yourself to a project. Ultra-thin period panties are perfect for prevention or as a supplement at the beginning of your cycle.
4. Ovulation period: sensuality, energy, and self-awareness
Plants to favor
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Ylang-ylang : in essential oil form, it stimulates libido and self-esteem.
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Rose : balancing, it harmonizes emotions.
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Shatavari : Ayurvedic, it supports fertility and female vitality.
Wellness advice
The ovulation period is a time of openness and radiance. It's also the perfect time to treat yourself to a natural treatment or a meditative break with a massage using rose-infused vegetable oil.
And if you're planning a beach getaway, slip a menstrual swimsuit into your suitcase to feel free and comfortable in all circumstances.
5. Before menstruation: calming emotions and preventing imbalances
Plants to favor
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Vitex (chaste tree) : regulates progesterone and calms premenstrual symptoms.
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Lemon balm : a mild sedative, it calms anxiety and sleep disorders.
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Clary sage : in essential oil form, it acts on hormones and emotional balance.
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Passionflower : a natural anxiolytic, for managing stress.
Wellness advice
If you're feeling tired, hypersensitive, or irritable, slow down. A lemon balm tea and a warm bath with a few drops of lavender essential oil can work wonders.
For spotting days or light flow at the end of your cycle, opt for light flow menstrual underwear , which is both comfortable and discreet.
6. Easily integrate plants into your routine
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Herbal teas : to be drunk 1 to 3 times a day as needed. Choose organic ones.
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Essential oils : to be used with caution, diluted in a vegetable oil or in a diffuser.
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Natural cosmetic care : favours formulas without endocrine disruptors.
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Steam baths (yoni steam): ancestral practices for uterine relaxation, to be practiced with supervision.
7. Precautions and recommendations
Even though plants are natural, they are not without effects. Here are some tips:
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Consult a naturopath or a midwife trained in herbal medicine before regular use.
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Avoid self-medication, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing hormonal treatment.
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Always test a plant in small quantities to avoid reactions.
The menstrual cycle is not a burden to be endured, but a language to be listened to. With the help of plants, you can learn to work with its rhythms, ease discomfort, and honor the different phases of your body.
At Adopte Ma Culotte , we advocate for a holistic approach to the menstrual cycle: respectful, natural, and above all, attentive to your needs. The period panties and period swimwear we offer are designed to seamlessly integrate into this journey towards greater comfort, confidence, and autonomy.