Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) describes a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that affect some women in the two weeks leading up to their period. According to U.K. health care provider Bupa, three in four women experience PMS symptoms. Symptoms include headaches, cramps, tiredness, mood swings and depression. If you suffer from PMS, you may find that over-the-counter analgesics help to relieve pain, while diuretics may reduce bloating and breast tenderness. Some herbs may also provide relief from PMS.
Black Cohosh
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), the herb black cohosh may alleviate PMS symptoms. However, scientific evidence to prove that is is helpful for PMS is limited. Black cohosh is a member of the buttercup family and it was often used in Native American medicine. This herb may cause liver damage and should not be used by women with liver disease. Consult your doctor before using black cohosh to treat PMS.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry, also known as chaste tree or vitex agnus castus, may reduce symptoms of PMS such as headache, breast tenderness and mood swings, notes UMMC. Results from a clinical study published in January 2001 in the British Medical Journal showed that a dried extract of the chasteberry fruit reduced the severity of PMS symptoms, compared to a placebo. The study's lead author, R. Schellenberg, notes that chasteberry extract was well-tolerated by women who took part in the study. Chasteberry may cause a skin rash and dizziness and may interact with some medications including antipsychotics and Parkinson's disease drugs. Talk to your doctor before taking chasteberry for PMS.
Dandelion
The leaves of the dandelion plant may reduce fluid retention in PMS, notes UMMC. Dandelion may be brewed with hot water and drunk as a beverage or taken as a tincture or in capsules. Dandelion leaves can also be added to salads. According to NCCAM, dandelion is generally safe but it may cause an allergic reaction in some people. Talk to your doctor before taking dandelion for PMS symptoms as it can interact with some medications, including the mood stabilizing drug lithium, as well as some antimicrobials.
