PMS

PMS is said to affect 80% of the female population, and can begin from a woman’s first period and last until menopause.

It is defined as the symptoms that occur from day 14-28 of the menstrual cycle and often brings many unwanted discomforts along with it.

There have been over-the-counter medications developed especially for this condition (for example, Midol), however the thought of taking pills every month doesn’t appeal to many women for cost and health issues.

Instead, a better way to handle PMS stress is to utilize the many home remedies that exist to help alleviate the pain associated with it.

If you are interested in learning how to get rid of PMS, then read more below about the natural cures that can help you.

Causes of PMS:

Before we can learn how to treat PMS with a home remedy, it is best to know what causes the condition in the first place.

Doctors generally agree that PMS is caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Hormone imbalances during different times of the cycle
• Genetics
• Chemical imbalances
• Low endorphin production
• Water retention
• Diet
• Low levels of Vitamin A, E, and B6
• Genetics

Symptoms of PMS:

PMS is identified by the following symptoms:

• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Cravings for junk food
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Bloating
• Breast swelling

Natural Cures for PMS:

The best natural cure for PMS is threefold: through diet, herbs and exercise.

Diet

• Increase your calcium intake for 2 weeks before your period is due.
• Limit animal fats in your diet as they contribute to water retention.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Cut out sugar completely, or if you can’t cut it out completely then limit your intake to 3 tsp a day.
• Increase your fiber intake by eating more fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Take 1-2 tsp of safflower oil before meals.
• Snack on high protein foods such as nuts in between meals.
• “Graze” your food (ie. eat many small meals a day rather than the standard 3) to keep blood sugar levels in check and thus reduce mood swings and cravings.

Herbs:

• Feverfew is a natural cure for headaches during PMS.
• Wild yam is a home remedy that is known for its ability to ease bloating and cramping.
• Red raspberry tea is on the list of natural cures for PMS as it greatly reduces cramps and tension. It is recommended to drink this tea for a week before your period is due.
• Chaste berry capsules have many functions, but its ability to balance hormones is what makes it an effective PMS remedy. Take 175- 225 mg a day for the 3 weeks a month that you are off your period. Note: this is not recommended for any on birth control pills or hormone therapy.
• Take 1000-1300 mg of evening primrose oil with food daily for the duration of your period.

Exercise:

• DAILY exercise is the key to reducing PMS symptoms. Even walking for 20 minutes a day can be an effective natural cure.
• Yoga is another great form of exercise that helps PMS.
• Swimming can help to ease tension in the abdominal area.

Reduce Your Stress

Web MD reports that women with high levels of stress experienced higher levels of depression, sadness, and associated physical discomforts associated with PMS. Reducing stress with exercise, or other methods could help reduce the severity of PMS symptoms.