The definition of a regular or normal menstrual cycle can vary widely from woman to woman, according to Medline Plus. On average menstruation occurs every 28 days and lasts from 4 to 7 days. A woman may skip periods due to pregnancy, hormonal contraceptives or in the years leading up to menopause. The absence of menstruation is called amenorrhea while abnormally heavy bleeding during a period is referred to as menorrhagia. Certain vitamins and herbs are purported help keep the menstrual cycle on track. Always talk to your health care provider about using herbs for medicinal purposes as they are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic medicine to regulate menstruation, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine or NCCAM. Turmeric is a shrub grown in India and is often used in curry powders and mustards. Since turmeric may cause uterine stimulation and promote menstrual flow it should be used with caution during pregnancy, advises Medline Plus. Touch base with your health care practitioner before taking turmeric to help treat irregular periods.
Vitamin B6 and Chaste Tree
Women who experience an absence of menstruation or amenorrhea may high levels of a hormone released by the pituitary gland called prolactin. Vitamin B6 supplements may lower high prolactin levels, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. The recommended dosage is 200mg daily. Chaste tree may promote the normal functioning of the pituitary gland and lower prolactin levels when taking daily for at least 1 year. Talk to your doctor before using herbs such as chaste tree to treat menstrual irregularities.
Iron
Women who have heavy bleeding or menorrhagia during their periods may be susceptible to anemia and should eat plenty of iron-rich foods such as beef, poultry, fish clams and oysters. Some women and may benefit from taking iron supplements, notes the UMMC. Dosages typically range from 60 to 200mg per day. Ask your health care provider about the potential benefits of taking iron for menstruation-related anemia.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is used for treating menstrual irregularities and various menopausal symptoms, according to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine or NCCAM. Black cohosh is also used to relieve dysmenorrhea or severe menstrual pain. Since black cohosh contains a plant estrogen it is uncertain whether it's safe for women who are pregnant or who have had breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive conditions. Ask your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of taking black cohosh.
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