Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS for short, refers to a collection of symptoms that typically occur one to two weeks before your period begins. Although symptoms vary from person to person, common symptoms include bloating, abdominal cramps, mood swings, sleep disturbances and fatigue. Although herbs cannot cure premenstrual syndrome, certain herbs may help reduce fatigue associated with this condition.
Contact your doctor before using any herb to treat premenstrual syndrome-related fatigue.
Aloe
Aloe is best known for its ability to sooth skin wounds and rashes. However, this herb may help alleviate tissue swelling associated with premenstrual syndrome, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This may ease constriction on blood vessels, thus improving the flow of oxygen, vitamins and minerals and relieving fatigue. Check with your doctor before taking aloe to treat fatigue -- this herb is a potent laxative.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh, an herb native to North America, was originally used by Algonquian Indians as a remedy for arthritis and rattlesnake bites. They also recommended this herb to treat fatigue, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Black cohosh may mimic the effects of estrogen, which may reduce PMS-related fatigue, abdominal pains and bloating. Check with your physician if you plan to treat premenstrual syndrome with black cohosh -- it may cause headaches, vision disturbances and joint pain.
Skullcap
Skullcap is an herb that is native to China and North America. Early American herbalists believed that skullcap could treat rabies. However, in the late 1700s, they discovered the sedative and tranquilizing properties of this herb, according to Castleman. Skullcap may help alleviate premenstrual syndrome-related sleep disturbances, promoting restful sleep and reducing daytime fatigue. Check with your doctor before taking skullcap -- although side effects are rare, skullcap may cause stomach pain and diarrhea.
Valerian
Valerian was originally used by Greek and Roman physicians as a poison antidote and a pain reliever. German herbalists recognized the sedative potential of valerian in the 12th century, according to Castleman. Like skullcap, valerian may help alleviate difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep. This may prevent daytime fatigue in people with premenstrual syndrome. Consult your physician before using valerian for fatigue related to PMS. Valerian may contribute to nausea and headaches.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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