PMS affects 30 percent of women and 8 percent of those women suffer from PMDD or premenstrual dysphoric disorder. PMDD encompasses PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness, menstrual cramps, fatigue, bloating and shifts in appetite with additional drastic mood swings that may interfere with daily responsibilities and relationships. PMDD sufferers also have anxiety, depression and irritability. If you are considering taking herbs for this condition, consult a doctor first.
Chaste Berry
Traditional, herbal healers use chaste berries to treat symptoms of menopausal and menstrual disorders. Chaste berry can help combat feelings of anxiety associated with PMDD. Chaste berry can also alleviate headaches that occur with PMDD as well as soothe extreme mood fluctuations. This berry has also been shown to reduce anger, which helps make daily activities more bearable for women who suffer from the condition,
St. John's Wort
St. John's wort or Hypericum perforatum is a perennial plant that sprouts small yellow flowers indigenous to Asia and Europe. The aerial areas contain volatile oil, resin, glycosides and tannin along with astringent, anti-inflammatory and sedative agents. "CNS Drugs" reports a study that found St. John's wort more effective than a placebo for reducing depression, anxiety and mood swings in women suffering from PMS and PMDD.
Kava Kava
Kava Kava or Piper methysticum has been used by Pacific Islanders for hundreds of years as a ceremonial beverage. It is mainly used for its relaxing qualities; it generally helps increase mood and provide a sense of well-being and contentment. It has been clinically used to treat symptoms of PMDD. However, kava may not be safe if you suffer from kidney or liver disease.
Warning
Talk with your doctor before using herbs for treatment of PMDD, as they may interfere with your current medications. Women who suffer from PMDD have reported suicidal thoughts so if your symptoms do not improve or get worse after herbal remedies, you should consult your doctor about medical treatments. If you are currently taking an SSRI or other depression medications, refrain from using herbs that interfere with neurotransmitters such as chaste berry.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD); Different from PMS?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder; All Information
- The Center for Women's Mental Health: Herbs for PMDD
- "BMJ": Treatment For the Premenstrual Syndrome with agnus castus fruit extract: prospective, randomised, placebo controlled study; R Schellenberg; 2001
- PubMed.gov: The efficacy of Hypericum perforatum (St John's wort) for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial; Canning S et al; March 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Kava Kava
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