There are several effective natural remedies for PMS or premenstrual syndrome, which consists of an assortment of mental and physical symptoms that can flare up prior to a woman’s menstrual period. Some of the most commonly researched treatments are dietary supplements and herbs like calcium, magnesium, chaste tree berry, evening primrose oil and nettle leaf. A practitioner of alternative or natural medicine may also suggest dietary and lifestyle changes or prescribe an acupuncture session. Since no one remedy works for all PMS suffers, each treatment plan should be individualized and created and maintained collaboratively with a medical professional.
One of the most commonly prescribed, popular and traditional natural remedies for PMS is chaste tree berry or chasteberry. When consumed habitually as a tea, in capsules, as an extract or a tincture, the berry of this large shrub has been shown in research studies to help alleviate many PMS symptoms after three menstrual periods. Chaste berry tree can interact with some medications and has been linked to side effects such as nausea and headache.
Calcium taken with magnesium is believed by some doctors to be an effective PMS remedy because several studies have shown that many women who suffer from this syndrome also have low levels of calcium. Ingesting 300 milligrams (0.01 ounces) of calcium four times a day may reduced some PMS symptoms including pain, mood swings and bloating. Magnesium enhances the body’s ability to absorb calcium effectively.
Additional natural remedies for PMS include evening primrose oil and nettle leaf. The essential omega-six fatty acid gamma linolenic in evening primrose oil cannot be made by the body and is believed to reduce the severity of some PMS symptoms like mood swings and breast tenderness. Evening primrose oil is commonly sold in capsules. Tea made from nettle leaf is thought to effectively relieve water retention and ease extreme menstrual bleeding.
Relaxation and sufficient sleep support and enhance the effects of many natural remedies for PMS. Developing an array of relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help relieve the stress of PMS naturally. Acupuncture is thought by some to alleviate the pain of PMS when the treatment focuses on releasing any blocked energy in the liver.
Some doctors believe that PMS may be the result of a nutritional deficiency rather than a hormonal problem. In tandem with dietary supplements and herbs, many PMS sufferers are advised to make dietary and lifestyle changes a week prior to the onset of menstruation. Consistent exercise coupled with an avoidance of salt, caffeine, alcohol, dairy and fat and an increased consumption of fruits, vegetables and nuts can soothe an array of symptoms. To help keep blood sugar levels stable, women with PMS may consider eating small meals more frequently throughout the day. Women who suffer from PMS should consult a medical professional prior to trying any natural remedies for PMS to avoid unforeseen complications or drug interactions.