Chasteberry and l-tryptophan are both supplements that may help relieve the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Using either product, alone or in combination, may help to relieve the mood swings and physical symptoms for women suffering from problems prior to menstruation. Mayo Clinic.com recommends both formulas specifically for treatment of PMDD.
PMS and PMDD
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome. The two conditions have similar symptoms, though PMDD may be disabling. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder tends to affect a woman's life by disrupting work and affecting personal and family relationships. The extreme mood swings associated with the PMDD make it difficult for women to deal with the stresses of everyday life. According to Mayo Clinic.com, 30 percent of all women suffer from PMS and eight percent of those women will have the more severe PMDD.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry, known also as monk' s pepper, is a herbal remedy that comes from the fruit of the chaste tree. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), chaste trees are native to Central Asia and the Mediterranean region. NCCAM reports the name comes from the phrase chastity. This herb was a common treatment in the Middle Ages to decrease sexual desire. Chasteberry is a dietary supplement that may help treat some of the symptoms of PMDD including irritability, mood swings and headaches.
L-tryptophan
L-tryptophan is an amino acid taken from both plants and animals. Drugs.com states l-tryptophan is an alternative medicine for sleep problems and mood disorders. While l-tryptophan may be useful for treating some symptoms of both PMS and PMDD, there may be side effects from taking this product. Drugs.com warns that l-tryptophan may be associated with a life-threatening condition known as eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS). In 1989, there were deaths from with this illness and many of the victims were taking l-tryptophan supplements.
Benefits
Women suffering from PMDD may find relief from using either or both of these alternative health aids. Mayo Clinic.com claims that taking chasteberry may help relieve mood swings, anger and headaches from PMDD. L-tryptophan may benefit those with severe physical and emotional symptoms, such as insomnia and anxiety. Both drugs are herbal and therefore not subject to regulation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Clinical studies have yet to prove either supplement is effective for the treatment of PMS or PMDD.
Considerations
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder can be serious and may require medical treatment. If suffering from PMDD, you should not substitute supplements for proper medical care. Both products are available individually as over-the-counter remedies. Some supplements may contain both chasteberry and the l-tryptophan. There is no indication that they cannot be taken at the same time. Read the dosage instructions on the products for proper use. Drugs.com recommends you do not take a l-tryptophan without talking to your doctor first. If, while taking either drug, you develop hives or difficulty breathing, seek medical help immediately. This might be a sign of an allergic reaction.
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