A Holistic Approach to PMS
Posted: Wednesday, July 21, 2010
by Dr. Carla Goddard
Premenstrual syndrome causes mild to severe discomfort for 8 out of 10 women. High percentages for something that has been happening to women for centuries. Some studies estimate that 90% of women between the ages of 20 and 50 experience at least one symptom of PMS during their cycle. With over 150 different documented symptoms that affect nearly every system of the body, every attack is as different as the women it strikes. Even worse is that symptoms seem to increase after the age of 30. With the cause of PMS still unknown and science unable to come up with any real theories, PMS is one of the mysteries that seem unable to be solved.
Chaste berry can give a head start in dealing with PMS. It is recommended as time honored herb that shows more relief for the end of the cycle symptoms than even the traditionally vitamin B6. The herb seems to work by raising the levels of progesterone in the female system which controls the second half of the menstrual cycle. The most widely recommended usage is to use one teaspoon of the dried herb in boiling water allowing it to steep for a full 20 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups per day.
Bloating can be reversed using yarrow root. Simply add one teaspoon to your chaste berry tea. Yarrow is also a mild diuretic which will stimulate the liver and help balance out hormones. To fend off the anxiety and irritability, the safest bet is aromatherapy. It can relax and calm the over sensitive nerves. Sandalwood or orange blossom tend to have a great success rate.
The woman's body is so intricate that when any imbalance occurs, it not only affects the physical body but also the connection of the mind to the body. When a woman looses the connection with herself, the emotional ramifications are apparent. It is proven that some hormones can have an immediate, recorded effect. While others have a long delayed reaction. PMS it is theorized by holistic healers, is caused when too much estrogen is produced. Recent studies on soy foods and herbs such as ginseng, black cohosh and wild yam showed promise in normalizing the levels in the body. It is important to note that black cohosh is only safe for short periods of time (1-3 months) and then it needs to be stopped for 1-3 months as it can lead to toxicity problems.
There are many other hormone balancing herbs that work for different women including licorice root, dong quai root, and sarsaparilla root. For many women who suffer from the spasms and cramps commonly associated with PMS, Black haw, Kava kava, and chamomile brewed in a tea and strained have shown amazing results.
With the vast array of symptoms that can arise with PMS, women searching for relief should consult with a holistic practitioner who can recommend the best blend of herbs that will work for their particular symptoms
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