The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Saundra (Cleveland, OH) on 12/07/2008
★★★★★
I purchased Organic Molasses manufactured by Wholesome Sweeteners from The Food Co-op in Cleveland(on sale $3.98/31 oz. bottle). This version is unsulphured. I have only been taking it for one week, but the first day I used it was 2 days before the start of my menses. I noticed that the flow decreased in duration from 6 days to 4 days. I am 47 years old, do not have fibroids or any other complaint other than some gray hair and ocassional stiff knees. I am in general good health. I swallow two tablespoons in the mornings straight down. I will take note of the duration of my cycle next month as well. I am not expecting to see any changes in my hair color for at least 4 months. Will keep you posted. Thanks to all who have shared their input. Peace, health, abundance & wealth to all!
Menstrual Issues
Posted by June (KC, KS) on 02/05/2008
★★★★★
I've been taking BSM (black strap molasses-Plantation brand from the health food store) for about a month now. Two and a half years ago I had my hormones tested and results showed I had too much testosterone, too much estrogen and not enough progesterone. (also low cortisol) I've had polycystic ovarian syndrome my whole life (I'm 37).
After trying to heal my body under the guidance of a nutritionist/chiropractor following the S. P. diet books (just using the initials of the book name here) my hormone imbalanced grew even more out of control. I gained about 25-30 pounds (the chiro and books told me this is supposed to be "normal" as your body heals it's metabolism) and the result was increased bleeding that did not stop.
So, for the past 2 1/2 years I've had to deal with heavy, lingering bleeding. Rx drugs are not for me, so I have been trying to solve this with natural remedies. I managed to lose the extra weight I gained following the SP diet, thank goodness. This helped lessen the bleeding. I lost more weight with diet/lots of exercise and ACV. The bleeding didn't completely stop, but more or less just lingered on and on. Still, it was a big improvement over what I had been suffering.
Then I got my new job where I am sitting a lot, started eating lots of goodies over the holidays, and...no surprise...gained some weight back. As most of us know by now fat = estrogen. Too much estrogen with not enough progesterone to counteract it (due to lack of ovulation) means excess bleeding. And, I started bleeding heavier again. I was ready to pull my hair out and really disappointed in myself for gaining weight back after all my hard work and success.
So, I came to EarthClinic and read about BSM. Once again, so many women said they had good results from it I could not ignore their advice. After taking BSM for about 2 weeks my bleeding STOPPED!!! No lingering, no spotting, nothing!
I tried several ways of taking it...on my granola first, which was totally disgusting. Then I finally tried it mixed in warm water and drinking it like tea. It's actually very, very good this way. My recipe is 2 teaspoons mixed with about one cup warm water morning and night.
After missing the night dosage for a while (during my bout with the flu) I noticed a little spotting returning. I don't know how BSM will affect me altogether, whether or not it will help me have a normal cycle, I just haven't taken it long enough. But I do know that the awful incessant bleeding has stopped and I am so relieved!
Thanks everyone for your suggestions and feedback. Without it I would never have tried BSM.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Brenda (Smyrna) on 10/03/2014
I have fibroids/heavy periods and recently had a blood transfusion for being anemic. Can you clarify the formula and mixture? Thanks!
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Linda (Ireland) on 05/07/2016
I've read that red clover will help shrink fibroids. Also that it balances estrogen levels, lowering them if too high and raising them if too low, hope this helps.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Tasha (East Coast, Usa) on 08/27/2010
★★★★★
I too had very heavy periods. They were also irregular. I once went almost a year without one. I happened to be almost a month late when I started taking 1 tbsp of BSM daily. Within 3 days I started. Now that may be a coincidence, but this period was very different. Normally I have extremely painful, crippling cramps, heavy bleeding and periods that lasted 5-7 days. This time my cramps were 90% gone, flow 50% lighter and it only lasted 3 days! I havent had a period like that in a few years so I know its the BSM. Not only did it effectively solve my "female" problems but within 7 days it had slowed my hirsutism. Amazing. And while I havent been diagnosed with PCOS, Im pretty sure this is what I have. And my theory is that if it has corrected my symptoms, it must help with the condition too. HIGHLY recommended and I'm HIGHLY impressed.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Kriti (Chhattisgarh, India) on 01/29/2016
Hello.. I just wanted to ask that does this Blackstrap Molasses (BSM) helps to regulate the periods?.. as I have it once in two months and a heavy periods with clots passing, which lasts for even a month.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Mia (Seattle, WA) on 03/12/2009
wow, thanks Nancy!
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Heather H (Rockville , MD) on 01/22/2008
★★★★★
I started taking Blackstrap molasses each day in hope that I would find some relief for uterine fibroids and the havoc they wreak on my menstrual cycle. I found this site after the impressive turnaround my grandfather experienced after beginning his own blackstrap regimen. He suffers from Parkinson's disease and had terrible constipation issues (see Fred G from Charlotte's testimony on the site. Fred G is my uncle).
Once on the site, I saw that blackstrap is recommended for so many diverse ailments and thought to give it a try. I have been through one full menstrual cycle and am thoroughly impressed. My decision was to take 1Tbs a day and to bump up to 2 Tbs during my cycle. I immediately noticed an increase in energy and a decrease of sugar and salt cravings throughout the day. My last menstrual cycle was far more manageable than I've experienced over the last several months - far less bleeding and a less dramatic decrease in energy. I am interested to see if results are cumulative. I'm convinced it is making a difference for me and eagerly share the tip with family and friends.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Anna (OK, US) on 01/06/2008
★★★★★
Hi, I just wanted to write to thank you for the information on Blackstrap molasses. I've had very painful periods ever since I can remember and have had to rely on powerful painkillers just so that I can get through the day. Without my painkillers I will be lying curled up in bed crying from the pain, it is so bad! After taking 1-2 tablespoons of BSM per day for 3 months, I am having my first "normal" period. Yes, there is still pain and cramping, but I believe this is closer to the normal levels. I am uncomfortable at times but not crying in bed so it is a definite improvement. It is also the first time in YEARS I didn't pop my pills! THANK YOU so much!
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Had (White River Jct, Vermont) on 06/18/2013
Taking more unsulfured BSM can help the pain, but I find cayenne pepper zaps pretty fast and so does tumeric. Also, magnesium oil, spray and rub in over painful areas and almost instant relief. I have all of these in my medicine cabinet, if one doesn't work I take another til the problem is done. No side effects as these are foods not 'drugs'. good health to you.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Zenith (Asheville, NC) on 04/23/2007
★★★★★
Thank you so much for your efforts in helping people like me take their health in their own hands! I have searched for years for the reasons I was feeling so sluggish and drained all the time, especially that one week (or more) a month....well I am here to tell you that there is certainly something to the Blackstrap Molasses...it WORKS!!!! For the first time since my youngest was born nearly 6 years ago I have suffered with nightmare periods, to the point where I wouldn't leave the house for nearly 10 days....after 5 weeks of taking BSM I am happy to say that my period was NORMAL and I am back to my old self again. I went from 10 days of misery to 5 days that I actually spent in my yard and garden. SMILE I take it as needed, if I started feeling crampy I would just eat it off the spoon and less than 30 minutes later...RELIEF! I recommend all women eat a little every day, you won't regret it! Good health to you all.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Mmsg (Somewhere, Europe) on 10/31/2011
Sona, start small, start with 1/2 teaspoon a day.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by PAMM (ALABASTER, AL) on 06/07/2009
Hello wanted to tell you I believe the reason you were having trouble with dizziness & your other symptoms is because some people cannot tolerate Molasses on a empty stomach. Because It has Iron in it which if you will read your suppose to take with food. I get nausea and dizzy & alot of other symptoms when I eat Iron on empty stomach. Also another reason is there is alot of sugar in Molasses. So When you don't eat and you take the molasses it causes your blood sugar to spike very quickly. And this can cause dizziness too, and a feeling of not feeling very well. Just make sure you take it with food (protein) and you won't have all these symptoms. As I can see you have found what works for you.. I hope that your getting the benefits out of it. Going Natural for Health Is The Best Way To Go! I just started this new treatment! Good Luck!@ (Holistic Medical Researcher)
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Anne (California ) on 01/01/2022
I feel better with Black Strap Molasses and I think it's great that putting it in a smoothie, worked well. I have RA and green smoothies (mostly veggies ..kale) are a lifesaver for me. Yes.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Healthnut In Atlanta (Atlanta, Ga) on 02/10/2014
Make sure that you take the the DAY OF your cycle. I thought I would be proactive and start drinking it about 10 days before my cycle came you it would be built up in my system...BAD IDEA!
It actually made me come on my cycle 9 days early!! EARLY!!! Seriously...please make sure you only take it the day of...unless you want to come on early...
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Carly (Wa, Usa ) on 02/10/2014
Dear Healthnut....this is nonsense. I take unsulphered blackstrap Molasses at one tablespoon a day, every day...for the past couple of years. There are irregularities for every woman in her cycle from time to time....but this is something that can happen with or without the BSM.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Diane (New Albany, Ohio) on 04/25/2008
★★★★★
I am 51 years old and for the past year I have been experiencing very heavy menstrual bleeding.February 29th I was taken to the hospital by ambulance due to how heavy the bleeding was. I was diagnosed with anemia and the ER doc did see something resembling a cauliflower growth on the cervix. I am going to be having pelvic ultrasound and probably other tests this week. During the lapse of time between that ER visit and this apppointment next week I have been out of state taking care of a sick parent and put off tests which I know is bad. I found this website when trying to figure out what I can do to get the bleeding under control until I this is diagnosed. I have been taking 1 tablespoon of unsulphured blackstrap molasses per day from the day my period ends until 10 days beofre another one is due to start. At that point 10 days before and during the period I take 1 tablespoon in the morning and 1 in the early evening. I take it straight and just drink lots of water after. I am pleased to report that the bleeding is probably half of what it was. I have had two realatively easy periods now. The only down side I can report is that my stools are slightly loose and very black by the time I have doubled that dose for 10 days. I am assuming this is from the mineral content. My stools return to normal as soon as I go back down to 1 tablespoon. I would also like to add that long before my periods became so problematic that I had become housebound for the duration I had seen eraly symptoms that there is something wrong. Three years ago I started to have night sweats. Over a period of 3 years I lost 10 pounds without trying. My body composition changed dramatically from very muscular to flacid. I went to my physician who ran tests and found nothing to be wrong. In the years to follow I was going through a very difficult time in my marriage and the stress was unbelievable. I develped a tic in my eye, I started having anxiety attacks. I have had mysterious aches and pains all over and finally my periods became very heavy. I sought help from physicains 4 times over a period of 3 years and all 3 physicians thought I looked too good to be sick and ran just a few tests which did not show any problems.They concluded that it was due to the severe stress and suggested leaving the marraige and getting professional counseling. I know my body and my intuition was telling me there is something wrong but I ignored it probably because I wanted to believe the physicians were right. Now I hope this is not cancer and strictly due to either perimenopause or fibroids. I have periods every month right on schedule every 28 days.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Daniela (Queens, NY) on 12/28/2007
★★★★★
Blackstrap molasses/heavy periods/clotting -- I am beyond speech - the blackstrap molasses worked!!!!!!!! last month i literally needed to walk around with a mop and bucket when i had my periods and this month my period was lighter --- and absolutely noooooooooo clots. It's a miracle! i've only been taking the blackstrap molasses for one month (one tbsp daily in my coffee). I am so happy that words cannot describe!
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Samantha (Reno, NV) on 12/08/2007
★★★★★
I tried using blackstrap molasses for a extremely heavy period with clots and severe cramps. I have been having the problem for over two years and have been to the doctor a few times to see what could be done about this problem. The doctor advised me to go on birth control pills which I did not want to do. I found this website and thought there is no way this could work but I'm going to try it. I started using the BSM about two weeks ago. I have definitely noticed with this period that it is lighter and I can't believe I'm hardly have any clots and no "flooding" this time. Also cramping is minimal this time. I'm going to keep up the treatment and I will let you all know my progress. I'm ecstatic! Thank You EC!
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Sagi (Hamilton, Canada) on 05/24/2008
Had painful menstrual cramps when I was 14/15 years old. The doctor put me on the B.C. pill to alleviate the cramps. Years later, my friend taught me about the importance of magnesium...how muscles need calcium to clench, and magnesium to relax. I started taking 1/4 oz. of magnesium in ionic liquid form, and no longer experienced the warning cramps prior to my period coming on. Wish my mother had known this when I was a teen! I am anxious to start on molasses, as I am looking for a more feasible source of magnesium. Currently believe I have fibroid tumors due to the excessive flow, as well as anemia. Thank you everyone for your testimonials!
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Auroragirl (Nowhereville, PA) on 05/25/2008
If you have menstrual cramps, charley horses, eye twitches or any other kind of muscle cramps or just general aches and pains, try epsom salts baths. Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) is an excellent source of magnesium, much more bio-available and less expensive than supplements. You can soak in it in the tub, or make a spray from 4oz by weight of epsom salts dissolved in 32 fluid oz of distilled water. Put the epsom salt/water mix in a spray bottle and spray it on after your shower (rub it in like lotion all over). This is a home made version of "magnesium oil" (magnesium chloride), only made with epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) instead. Magnesium from epsom salts is very well absorbed throught the skin and doesn't loosen the bowels like oral magnesium supplements do. If you want to use magnesium chloride to make homemade "magnesium oil", get some unscented magnesium chloride bath salts and proceed as for "magnesium oil" made from epsom salts. Since I started using epsom salts, my skin is no longer dry...due, I think, to the sulfer content of epsom salts. If you feel up-tight, tense, anxious, nervous, crampy, etc., take an epsom salt soak. Exercise, and stress of all kinds, depleats magnesium, which is why an epsom salt soak after a work out or a stressful day is so good for you.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Vickie (Toronto, Canada) on 03/26/2007
★★★★★
I had been having heavy periods for about 2 years. About 5 weeks ago I discovered this site by accident and began using blackstrap molasses; 1 tbsp in a glass of warm water twice a day mostly on an empty stomach about 20 mins before breakfast and dinner. I also occasionally had constipation. First I noticed that I was going to the bathroom regularly and this month my period was a lot lighter. It works people; pleeeeeeeeeeease try it. It works! V
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Andrea (Tulsa, OK) on 11/19/2006
★★★★★
I believe blackstrap molasses triggered my [menstrual] cycle, which had been off since July. I am using it daily 2 teaspoons in green tea and I am monitoring my fibroids-I know that it is helping with anemia because my weird cravings are seriously lessening- Love you people much, God Bless!
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Catrina (Western Ireland, Ireland) on 08/20/2012
Hi, Does Black Strap Molasses balance hormones or is it just that the introduction of the extra minerals/nutrients causes a positive effect on the menstrual cycle/body. Cheers for contributing.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Sona (Ghaziabad, India) on 10/31/2011
Please let me know will it be ok if a person with a weak digestion can have BSM as I have a tendency for loose stool if I take any mineral rich diet... But at the same time heavy flow with bad cramps..... Still I want to try BSM.... What precautions to be taken?
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Tuesday (Indianapolis, In) on 06/01/2010
★★★★★
Blackstrap Molasses is my life saver. I had extremely heavy periods that would last 15-18 days. I take 1 tablespoon of bsm daily and 2 when my period comes. My periods have gone to 3-5 days. I have noticed a strong odor. anybody have any remedies for the odor??
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Joyce (Joelton, Tn) on 12/22/2009 490 posts
Hello JoMarie from Kansas City,
Have you considered that those menstrual cramps that lay you low might be telling you that you need some magnesium? If so, you might want to bring your level up quicker by using the MgCl (magnesium chloride) transdermally (absorbed through the skin). See site for obtaining it on the transdermal magnesium page of EC.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Mmsg (Somewhere, Europe) on 02/10/2014
That's strange, Healthnut. In my family, it is taken all month - especially during the week BEFORE the menses, to offset pain. And it does work for that. I guess everyone is different. Or could it be that in your case it was cleaning out undesireable stuff?
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Adaku (London, United Kingdom) on 08/26/2008
★☆☆☆☆
re: excessive and prolonged peroids. I have been trying the black strap molasses for almost 2 weeks it made my period worse. i have fibroids and exceesive bleeding every month and its difficult cause im trying for a baby pleas help i have prolonged periods.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Susan (Northern, IL) on 11/02/2008
Adaku, besides making sure you have the right molasses, try to make sure your PH is alkaline. I had horrible, heavy cycles until I used ACV+Baking soda. Cycles got much better/shorter. Some people need the baking soda, some don't. You have to expirment. Also, make sure you to stay away from articifical ingredients in food (ex. aspartame, MSG, etc), drink good water (not tap water, etc), take a good food based multi a few days a week, etc. May also want to look at kelp for the iodine. No pops - get used to drinking water. If you've been on birth control,y ou may have to address hormone imbalances. Look at other symtpoms you may be having for commonalities. Not medical advice - just what I would do.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Yaakova (Tulsa, Oklahoma) on 07/05/2007
★★★★★
I am a 44 yr old female with Type 2 diabetes, HBP and osteoarthritis. I had almost given up on myself until 2 months ago. I found your site and started taking ACV hoping for relief from arthritis pain (2 tbs 3x a day mixed with apple juice). The first 3 days were rough, I felt pretty bad. Then I started feeling better. Not only has ACV helped ease the arthritis pain, but it has also lowered my blood pressure and my blood sugar levels have also dropped! My average was 135 and it is now 108! I've even lost some weight! I feel like I have a new found energy and my sleep patterns have improved! I don't have food cravings anymore and my complexion looks great too. I can't say enough about how ACV has helped me. I have told several of my friends about this site. They too are having success with many of the remedies posted here. May I also say that I started Black Strap Molasses at the same time (1 tbs once a day with 5 oz milk). My period was very heavy with lots of large clots and lasted for almost 2 weeks. I was always weak and light-headed during my period. I am happy to report that my last period was only 7 days! The first 3 days were still heavy but it tapered off to normal. The light-headed feeling is gone too. I am so glad I found this website. I feel like I am becoming the person I used to be when I was younger and I am very happy with the changes.
Menstrual Issues
Posted by Becky (Queen Creek, AZ) on 05/16/2007
★★★★★
I tried the blackstrap molasses remedy last month for menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding. I started taking it right about when my period started. It helped a little bit, but I did still have some cramping. But I have been taking it every day for the past month and a half, and when I had my period this month, I had ABSOLUTELY NO CRAMPING! How wonderful! I think the bleeding was a normal level as well. Thanks for much for the info! I take 2 tablespoons of blackstrap molasses every morning in a glass of water along with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
