Did you know that ginger can be a wonderful herb to turn to during the menstrual phase of your cycle?
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is traditionally valued for its warming qualities and can be especially comforting during menstruation. Its warming nature may help with more than cramps and body aches—it can also soothe digestive discomfort, low mood, or that run-down, achy feeling sometimes called “period flu.” 🌸
One lovely way to incorporate ginger during this time is through a warming herbal salve. Gently massage it into achy or crampy areas, and a warming salve can become a simple, comforting part of your menstrual self-care routine. Herbal Academy has shared this easy recipe, which can be prepared either as a salve or as a massage oil.
🌿 A Warming Ginger Salve
This recipe can be made as either a salve or a massage oil. If you would prefer to make a massage oil, simply omit the beeswax.
Once prepared, apply a small amount to the abdomen or other areas of discomfort and gently massage into the skin.
Ingredients
- 8 fl oz (1 cup) carrier oil, such as olive oil, coconut oil, or a combination of the two
- ¼ cup beeswax pastilles
- 1 tbsp ginger (Zingiber officinale) root powder
- 1 tbsp cayenne (Capsicum annuum) fruit powder
- 1 tbsp turmeric (Curcuma longa) rhizome powder
- Optional: 1 tbsp arnica (Arnica spp.) flower
🔥 Directions
1. Infuse the oil
Using an oil-infusion method of your choice, infuse the ginger, cayenne, turmeric, and optional arnica into your carrier oil.
For guidance on different methods of making herbal-infused oils, see Herbal Academy’s guide to making herb-infused oils.
2. Strain the herbs
Using cheesecloth, strain the herbs from the infused oil. Squeeze the cheesecloth thoroughly to recover as much of the infused oil as possible.
3. For massage oil
If you are making a massage oil, pour the strained oil into a clean jar. Allow it to cool, then store it in a cool, dark place.
4. For a salve
If you are making a salve, combine the beeswax and herb-infused oil in a double boiler. Gently heat until the beeswax has completely melted, then remove from the heat.
5. Pour and cool
Pour the mixture into clean jars or tins and allow it to cool and harden.
6. Store
Once the salve has hardened, cover the containers and store them in a cool, dark place when not in use. 🌿
⚠️ A Note About Skin Sensitivity
Because cayenne and ginger can have a strong warming effect and may irritate sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to patch-test the preparation before more extensive use.
Avoid applying the salve to broken, irritated, or damaged skin. Keep it away from the eyes and other mucous membranes, and wash your hands thoroughly after application.
🌸 A Simple Herbal Ritual for Your Menstrual Phase
The menstrual phase can be a natural opportunity to slow down, listen to your body, and make space for comforting self-care rituals. Preparing and using a warming herbal salve can be one small way to bring intention and warmth into that time.
🌿✨ Herbs can be wonderful allies, but they work best when used thoughtfully and appropriately.
❤️ Recipe from Herbal Academy
Interested in learning more about herbs and the menstrual cycle? Explore Herbal Academy’s 28-Day Menstrual Cycle Workshop: Herbs for Your Moon Phases, a self-paced workshop exploring herbal support throughout the menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phases.
