Premenstrual Syndrome — PMS — can get in the way of life. Buuut, it doesn't have to.
Don't get me wrong, we're cyclical beings. A bit of change in the luteal phase before your period starts = normal and to be expected. Fluid dynamics, metabolism, energy levels, and digestion can all change a bit before your period. But, when those changes start impacting your life significantly, it's time to consider some support.
As a naturopathic doctor with a focus on menstrual health and fertility, I see A LOT of PMS. And I also see a fair bit of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder, more on that in this blog post).
Most of my PMS patients don't eat enough, and dietary changes can go a looong way. You can download PMS nutrition support through my free Plant-Based PMS Companion.
There are many different ways to treat PMS naturally. Some of the supplements employed include:
One of the most effective herbs we have is drumroll Chaste tree, or Vitex (from Vitex agnus-castus).
This herb is a potent reproductive health herb. It can help with both the physical and mental-emotional symptoms of PMS (and it's actually beneficial for PMDD too).
It helps with:
The dosage studied is 40mg, and the good news is that the benefits of using it for 3-6 months can persist up to 3 months after discontinuation.
In herbal medicine, chaste tree is often used in combination with other nervous system herbs like:
(And, since chamomile independently helps with the emotional symptoms of PMS, the two together could be a good combo!)
It's quite a safe herb (but a skin rash can occur).
Interestingly, this herb is first-line treatment for PMS in Germany and is covered by public healthcare. That's probably why it's popular as a first-line option over there (plus its efficacy!).
As always, consult with your healthcare team to make sure any additions to your health plan are fitting for you.
