Premenstrual syndrome or PMS affects approximately 85 percent of menstruating females during their reproductive years, according to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. Though PMS generally affects older women, it can also affect adolescents. When PMS occurs, you may experience emotional fluctuations a week to 10 days before your menstrual cycle begins. Some symptoms of PMS may be treated with rest, dietary changes and sleep; however, herbs such as cramp bark and chamomile may help reduce anxiety and other symptoms associated with PMS. Speak with your doctor before using herbs to treat these symptoms.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PMS may vary from month to month. Some common symptoms you may experience include headaches, acne, anxiety, depression, backache, abdominal bloating, trouble sleeping, tender or swollen breasts, changes of appetite and fatigue. In addition, you may experience mild to moderate menstrual cramps.
Cramp Bark
Cramp bark has been used for years for relieving menstrual cramps and other cramps throughout the body. During menstruation, the uterine muscles contract to help expel blood from the body. Cramp bark works by relaxing muscle tension such as that caused by these contractions. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, cramp bark tea can be made by boiling 2 tsp. of dried bark in one cup of water and allow it to simmer for 15 minutes. This tea can be drunk up to three times per day to help reduce menstrual pain. If you take medications such as blood thinners, you should speak with your doctor before using this herb.
Roman Chamomile
Roman chamomile has been used for treating an array of digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, flatulence and indigestion as well as calming anxiety. In addition, this herb has also been used by women for painful menstrual periods. Roman chamomile works by helping to relax the muscles of the uterus, calming anxiety and inducing sleep. Relaxing chamomile tea can be made by adding up to 3 heaping tbsp. of dried or fresh flowers to one cup of boiling water for 10 minutes; strain the mixture and cool. Prepare a cup of chamomile tea at bedtime to help improve symptoms of PMS.
Recommendations
Some herbs are not recommended if you suffer from certain health conditions such as liver disease, kidney disease or certain cancers; therefore, it is suggested that you speak with your doctor before you use them to treat symptoms of PMS or any other health condition. Additionally, certain herbs may have an adverse effect if used in combination with other medications.
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