Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that affects millions of women. It’s estimated that as many as 3 of every 4 menstruating women have experienced some form of premenstrual syndrome.
It refers to a range of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days or weeks before menstruation. The severity of PMS symptoms can vary from woman to woman, and from cycle to cycle.
Here are some common symptoms of PMS:
- Physical symptoms: These can include bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, fatigue, and changes in appetite.
- Emotional symptoms: These can include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating.
- Behavioral symptoms: These can include changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleeping, and changes in libido.
As a naturopathic practitioner, I believe in treating PMS with a holistic approach that addresses the underlying causes of the condition and supports hormonal balance. Beyond basic diet and lifestyle modifications necessary for optimal hormone balance, here are some examples of common nutrient and herbal naturopathic support options for PMS.
Magnesium is an important mineral that plays a role in many bodily functions, including hormone regulation. It has been shown to help reduce symptoms of PMS such as bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings.
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for hormone production and metabolism as well as neurotransmitter synthesis and metabolism. It has been shown to help reduce symptoms of PMS such as mood swings, irritability, and breast tenderness.
Evening primrose oil is a supplement that contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that can help reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance. It has been shown to help reduce symptoms of PMS such as breast tenderness, bloating, and mood swings.
Chasteberry is an herb that has been traditionally used for PMS. It works by supporting the production of progesterone, a hormone that is important for menstrual cycle regulation. It has been shown to help reduce symptoms of PMS such as breast tenderness, bloating, and mood swings.
Dong quai is an herb that has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for menstrual cycle regulation. It contains compounds that can help support hormonal balance and reduce symptoms of PMS such as cramping, bloating, and mood swings.
Black cohosh is an herb that has been traditionally used for menopausal symptoms, but it can also be helpful for PMS. It contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance, and has been shown to help reduce symptoms of PMS such as mood swings, irritability, and hot flashes.
By incorporating these supplements and herbs into your diet or supplement regimen, you can support your hormonal balance and reduce symptoms of PMS. However, it’s important to note that these supplements and herbs should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, as they may interact with certain medications or have contraindications for certain health conditions.