During your cycle, the lining of the uterus builds up in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, the body releases substances called prostaglandins, which signal the uterus to contract so it can shed that lining. Those contractions help move the lining out of the body — but they can also temporarily reduce blood flow to the muscle, which creates the cramping or aching sensation many women feel.
For some women, cramps are mild. For others, they can feel much more intense. A few things can make cramping stronger, including:
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Higher prostaglandin levels, which lead to stronger contractions
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Tighter or more sensitive muscles in the pelvic area
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Inflammation, which can increase discomfort
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Hormonal fluctuations, especially in the days leading up to a period
Because cramping is closely tied to muscle contractions and tension, many women look for ways to support muscle relaxation and overall comfort during this time. Simple approaches like warmth, rest, gentle movement, or magnesium are commonly used alongside other methods to help the body feel more at ease.
From there, many women begin asking a different question — not just how to get through the discomfort, but how to better support their bodies during that time of the month.
Why Magnesium Has Become a Go-To Home Remedy for Many Women
As more women begin looking for ways to support their bodies instead of simply pushing through discomfort, magnesium has become a common part of the conversation.
Magnesium is a mineral involved in hundreds of processes throughout the body, including muscle relaxation and nervous system support. Because menstrual cramps are caused by muscles tightening and contracting, supporting relaxation can help the body feel less tense and more comfortable during this time.
One of the reasons magnesium balm has become such a popular home remedy is its simplicity. Instead of taking another supplement, it’s applied directly to the skin — often on the lower abdomen or lower back — allowing for more targeted support right where discomfort is felt. For women who already feel bloated or have sensitive digestion during their cycle, this can feel like a gentler option.
Many women also find themselves reaching for magnesium in the evening. During hormonal shifts, sleep can feel lighter and the body more tense, and magnesium is commonly associated with helping the body relax and unwind before bed.
At The Elderberry Co., our Magnesium Balm was created with that same idea in mind — simple, comforting support made in small batches with ingredients you can feel good about. Not as a replacement for everything else, but as another way to care for your body during the times it needs it most.
Because at the end of the day, caring for your body isn’t about pushing through discomfort — it’s about learning to support it well.