7. Do Period Cramp Relief Gels and Roll-On
Quick Overview
TL;DR: Plant-based period cramp relief gels and roll-on oils may provide quick, short-term relief for mild to moderate cramps. Since research on these products is still limited, they’re best used as a supportive option alongside proven treatments like medications or heat therapy.
Research: At present, there are no published clinical trials testing plant-based topical-only gels or roll-on oils for period cramps. Some ingredients (like lavender oil, clove oil, and clary sage oil) have shown pain-relieving effects in clinical trials when used alone or in blends. However, these studies mostly involve inhalation, massage, or oral use of these essential oils.1 Overall, evidence for period cramp relief gels and roll-on oils in the market remains limited.
Doc’s opinion: Period cramp relief gels and roll-on oils may provide relief but are not substitutes for evidence-based treatments. You can use them with your usual period cramp management routine, like anti-inflammatory medications, supplements, heat therapy, and TENS.
If using these products for the first time, keep the following tips in mind:
Always do a skin patch test before using the product.
Keep realistic expectations with the product. It may help for about 1-3 hours.
If pain remains severe or interferes with daily life, consult a doctor.
Why Do Period Cramps Happen?
Period cramps are characterised by pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen just before and during menstruation. Why painful menstruation happens is a question researchers are still exploring. However, current evidence shows a strong link between elevated levels of a chemical called prostaglandins and period cramps.2
The uterine lining makes the chemical prostaglandins. During the first 1-3 days of menstruation, when the lining is still thick, prostaglandin levels are highest. Here’s what they do:
Trigger strong uterine muscle contractions.
Constrict the blood vessels, limiting proper blood flow and oxygen delivery to the uterus.
Increase nerve sensitivity, causing painful cramps.
Promote inflammatory reactions, increasing pain perception.
After the third day, the level of prostaglandins declines as most of the uterine lining that produces it sheds. Hence, menstrual pain also eases.
How Do Period Cramp Relief Gels and Roll-On Oils Work?
Period cramp relief gels and roll-on oils work the same way as popular pain-relief products like Moov and Iodex. Massaging the product on your lower abdomen may create certain sensations. It may also gets absorbed into your skin to reach the affected area and ease cramps.
These gels and roll-on oils often include five types of natural, plant-based ingredients that work in different ways to help reduce menstrual pain. Here’s a quick overview of these components and their likely effects on cramps.
Counter-irritant effect: Create a cooling sensation that temporarily distracts the brain from deeper pain.
Counter-irritant effect: Produce a warming sensation that reduces pain perception.
Improved circulation: Increases blood flow to the area, helping relax muscles.
Nerve pain modulators (Menthol/ peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, camphor, clove oil)
Nerve-calming effect: Reduces the sensitivity of nerve endings, so fewer pain signals are sent to the brain.
Reduced inflammation: Lower the level of prostaglandins, which trigger inflammation and intense contractions.
A Doc’s Guide: The Right Way to Use a Period Cramp Relief Gel or Roll-On Oil
Period cramp relief gel or roll-on oils are supplementary methods. They can be used alongside evidence-backed treatments like anti-inflammatory tablets, supplements, heat therapy, and TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation).
Here’s a quick guide on the right way of using these topical applications for the first time:
Avoid using period cramp relief gels or roll-on oils if:
You have open wounds, broken skin, or eczema/ psoriasis flares.
You have salicylate hypersensitivity.
You are pregnant. (ingredients like clary sage and rosemary can increase uterine contractions)
You are already using a heat patch with a temperature of more than 45 °C.
Medically reviewed by
Dr Poonguzhali Liston, MBBS, MS OBG, FMAS, DRM, FRM, CIMP
Chief Medical Officer, Cranberry.Fit
Last updated
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