Herbs That Can Help With Pms

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, is the name of a group of symptoms -- physical, psychological and behavioral -- that may develop within two weeks of your monthly period. The National Health Service of the United Kingdom states that there are many symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome that begin disappearing after the period starts. Many women use herbs to treat premenstrual syndrome symptoms. However, talk with your doctor before using herbs to treat your symptoms.

Premenstrual Syndrome

The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that the precise cause of premenstrual syndrome is unknown. However, it is believed that alterations in brain hormone levels may play a significant role in this condition, although this theory has never been proved. Physical symptoms of premenstrual syndrome include abdominal bloating, breast tenderness, food cravings and headache. Other symptoms may include irritability or hostility, concentration problems, feelings of anxiety and tension, mood swings and poor judgment.

Herbs That Can Help

In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and nutrition researcher, states that there are many herbs that may help treat premenstrual syndrome. According to Balch, hormone-balancing herbs include black cohosh, blessed thistle, dong quai, false unicorn root, fennel seed and sarsaparilla root. Herbs that treat cramps include angelica root, cramp bark, kava kava and red raspberry. Feverfew helps treat migraines, while black haw and rosemary help calm and soothe your nervous system.

An Effective Herb

Blessed thistle is one of the most effective herbs for treating premenstrual syndrome. Blessed thistle helps treat numerous female disorders, boosts milk production in nursing mothers and strengthens the heart. This herbal remedy is also used to stimulate appetite, heal the liver, reduce inflammation and cleanse the blood. Also known as St. Benedict thistle, blessed thistle contains silicon, zinc, selenium and many other nutrients. The flowers, leaves and stem of the plant are used medicinally.

Warning

When taking herbs to help treat your premenstrual syndrome, always discuss herb-related issues with your doctor beforehand. Understanding possible interactions with other medications you are taking and the side effects that you may experience from ingesting herbs is extremely important. Your health care provider can tell you how to best use herbs to realize optimal health and when to discontinue herbs should negative side effects develop. Herbs may be a helpful addition to your premenstrual syndrome treatment plan.