Alternative Treatments for Premenstrual Syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome or PMS as it is more popularly known is a group of physical and emotional symptoms that affects most women in the week preceding their menstrual period. The exact symptoms and their intensity and duration vary from woman to woman. The most common PMS symptoms that most women experience include swelling and tenderness in the breasts, lower back pain and abdominal cramps, headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, food cravings, water retention, abdominal bloating, an upset stomach, swelling in the face, hands and ankles, depression, irritability, insomnia, and fatigue.

Causes of PMS

During the normal menstrual cycle, the ovaries release the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Both these hormones prepare the womb to accept a fertilized egg. They also cause changes in the neurotransmitters in the brain, which in turn leads to the symptoms known as PMS. PMS symptoms may also be heightened by calcium and magnesium imbalances.

PMS remedies

PMS is a part and parcel of every woman’s life. It is something she will experience every month until menopause. Some women are lucky enough to experience only mild symptoms, but for those who experience full blown PMS symptoms, there are many PMS natural remedies that can help to provide relief.

• Home remedies for PMS - These PMS remedies will help you to deal effectively with the travails of your monthly menses. Best of all these PMS natural remedies are inexpensive and have absolutely lesser side effects.

• Regular exercise - Women who have a fit and active lifestyle tend to experience fewer PMS symptoms than those who don’t. Regular exercise helps to alleviate the symptoms of PMS and also keeps you healthy.

• Calcium - Calcium has been proven to be very effective in combating the symptoms of PMS. Ensuring that you get an adequate supply of calcium from your diet or supplements is not only one of the best PMS remedies but also a good way to ensure strong bones.

• Chaste Tree Berry - Chaste tree berry is one of the most popular herbal home remedies for PMS.  This herb can be ingested naturally or in the form of supplements. It helps to combat the symptoms of PMS such as irritability, depression, headaches, and breast tenderness. However, chaste tree berry should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women.

• Evening Primrose Oil - Evening primrose oil is another popular PMS remedy. Application of this oil can help to regulate the pain, inflammation, and tenderness associated with PMS.