Premenstrual syndrome, also known as PMS, is a condition that premenopausal women who have periods experience. About one to two weeks before the start of her period, a woman may experience bloating, cramping and increased anxiety. Fatigue is also an issue. These symptoms of PMS may affect a woman's daily activities. Herbal vitamins can help but should be discussed with a health care provider first.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is a water soluble vitamin that is found in certain foods. Water soluble means it is excreted by the urine and needs to be taken on a daily basis to maintain adequate levels. Vitamin B6 is used to relieve the cluster of symptoms of PMS, according to Oregonstate.edu. Women should have 1.6 milligrams of vitamin B6 a day. It can be found in leafy green vegetables, brewer's yeast and vitamin supplements.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D may play a role in relieving symptoms of anxiety, irritability and tearfulness. Women who consumed at least four servings of dairy containing vitamin D, were not as likely to develop these PMS symptoms, according to a study from the Archives Internal Medicine and reported by the National Institutes of Heath, June, 2005 (see ref #3). Vitamin D, in an herbal form, can be found in alfalfa sprouts and parsley. Supplemental vitamins are found in grocery and vitamin stores.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E helps the body reduce levels of prostaglandins, which is a type of biochemical in the body. Progtaglandins may lead to PMS symptoms such as such as cramps and breast tenderness according to the MayoClinic.com website. The daily intake should be 400 international units. Herbal vitamin E can be found in raw pumpkin seeds, nuts, leafy vegetables and wheat germ. Fish oil supplements also contain vitamin E.
