Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, is a collection of behavioral and physical symptoms that affect menstruating women in the days leading up to their period.1 PMS usually starts during the second half of your menstrual cycle and lasts through the first or second day of your period.2 Most women experience menstrual cycles lasting 28 days, with ovulation occurring on the 14th day. It is typically following ovulation that PMS occurs.1 Each woman may experience PMS differently, and some may not experience it at all, but most women are able to predict the pattern of their PMS symptoms.3
What Causes Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
The exact premenstrual syndrome causes are unknown, but there’s a strong link between PMS and hormonal changes in the body.2 Estrogen and progesterone levels rise during the second half of a woman’s menstrual cycle to prepare the uterine lining for implant should an egg be fertilized. If this does not happen, these hormone levels drop, putting the spike right around the time women report PMS symptoms.1
It’s also suggested that PMS causes may include social, cultural, psychological, and biological factors.2 Other premenstrual syndrome causes include low levels of vitamin B6, low levels of serotonin--a chemical in the brain--and abnormal metabolism of substances called prostaglandins.4 Individuals at higher risk of PMS include:
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Symptoms
Approximately 75 percent of women report experiencing PMS symptoms, with 50 percent saying these symptoms affect their daily activities.4 About 150 symptoms have been linked to PMS, including:
Symptoms tend to get worse as women enter their 30s and 40s and their bodies prepare for menopause.2
Natural Remedies and Herbs for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
PMS herbal remedies may help in controlling physical and emotional symptoms. Consider the following premenstrual syndrome herbs:
References
Chasteberry Extract is the most effective natural product for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) CuresDecoded worldwide community recommends
Chasteberry extract is a remedy that is used to help regulate the endocrine system and hormone production. It helps to relieve PMS symptoms by suppressing the release of prolactin which is a hormone that is thought to cause PMS. Take 400 mg of standardized chasteberry extract daily and as needed.
Evening primrose oil is a natural remedy for PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness, depression, anxiety, irritability and fluid retention. Evening primrose oil is available as a supplement in capsule form. Take 500 mg of evening primrose oil twice daily to help manage PMS symptoms.
Magnesium is a natural mineral that can help with PMS symptoms such as bloating and fluid retention as well as menstrual migraine headaches. Take 300-500 mg of magnesium daily or eat foods like leafy vegetables and beans which are rich in magnesium.
Dong quai is a Chinese herbal medicine that is used to help suppress PMS symptoms such as cramps, headaches and mood swings. Dong quai is available in capsule form to take between 2-3 grams daily. Or take 0.5 grams of dong quai liquid extract twice daily.
St. John’s Wort is a natural remedy that can help with specific PMS symptoms such as depression, anxiety and mood swings. St. John’s Wort is available as a supplement in capsule form. Take 300-900 mg of St. John’s Wort daily for two menstrual cycles.