Overview on PMS

The fluctuations of mood and personality that many women experience prior to menstruation are often the subject of humor and parody.  But for millions of women, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is no laughing matter.  PMS can cause serious emotional and physical pain and make life nearly unbearable for several days every month.
 

Symptoms

PMS refers to a combination of physical, psychological and emotional symptoms a woman experiences with the hormonal shifts just before a menstrual cycle.
 
Moodiness, depression, crying spells, irritability, anger, tension, anxiety, insomnia, poor concentration, social withdrawal, headaches, joint or muscle pain, fatigue, appetite changes, food cravings, fluid retention, abdominal bloating, breast tenderness, acne flare-ups, constipation and diarrhea are all common to PMS.
 
Most women of menstruating age will experience all symptoms of PMS in their lifetime, however, they usually have just a few select symptoms that recur each month which also vary greatly in intensity month-to-month.

Cause

Though an exact cause is unknown, cyclic changes in hormones and fluctuations in serotonin (a neurotransmitter critical to moods) can contribute to depression, fatigue, cravings and insomnia. While stress may aggravate symptoms, it’s not a known cause, and some women should address the possibility of undiagnosed depression.
 

Natural Solutions

Many PMS symptoms can be treated effectively with herbs. Dong quai has high levels of phytosterols - natural plant estrogens that help reduce the symptoms of estrogen deficiency; these help promote blood flow to the reproductive organs, relieve menstrual cramps and regulate uterine contractions. Horny goat weed helps regulate mood swings, depression and libido, while rehemannia assists with hot flashes. Cornus officinalis treats excessive sweating and heavy menstrual bleeding. Poria cocoa has a tranquilizing effect on the nervous system and is helpful treating tension, anxiety and insomnia.
 
To maximize the impact of herbal formulas, it’s important to avoid smoking, caffeine, alcohol and processed foods, eat whole organic foods as much as possible, exercise regularly, drink plenty of water and get sufficient sleep. Eating smaller meals with less sodium will help reduce fluid retention and bloating, and practicing yoga can help reduce stress.