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Herbal supplements have been used for centuries to alleviate various health conditions, including symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). While some herbal supplements may offer potential benefits for managing PMS symptoms, individuals do not react the same way to any herbal product. One must pay attention to o body and learn what is effective in your particular situation and what is not. We have worked with so many women dealing with painful PMS and also Menopause issues. Some of the herbs I will discuss today are effective for both issues.
Herbal Supplements for PMS and Menopause
Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus): Chasteberry is often used to alleviate PMS symptoms such as breast pain, bloating, irritability, and mood swings. It may help regulate hormonal imbalances by influencing the release of certain hormones in the brain. This ingredient is used in many formulas including that of Enerhealth Botanicals, Womenopause. Some women find it very beneficial, and others do not. My wife for instance can’t take this herbal supplement in formulations. (Find this herb in our Female Hormone Balance Blend, Womenopause).
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis): Dong Quai is commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to address menstrual problems and PMS symptoms. It is believed to have hormonal balancing effects and may help with mood swings, cramps, and irregular periods. This herb also has potential benefits in dealing with Menopause. (Find this herb in our Womenopause).
Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa): Black cohosh has been used traditionally to manage menopausal symptoms, but it may also have benefits for PMS. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and might help alleviate mood swings, hot flashes, and sleep disturbances. This ingredient is used in blends specifically for women at Enerhealth Botanicals.
St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum): St. John's Wort is a well-known herb for its potential antidepressant properties. Some studies suggest that it may help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression or anxiety associated with PMS. While this herb is the bane of cattle ranchers, cows can die from ingesting this one, it has the potential to calm the nerves and improve moods. It is effective as a single herb in tincture and is also incorporated into many blends that favor soothing emotional trauma. (Find this herb in our Womenopause Blend)
Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Ginger has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help alleviate menstrual cramps associated with PMS. It may also help with nausea and digestive issues that can occur during this time. I would say that no matter what the issue, Ginger is a great addition to one’s health regimen. It is a great digestif. (Find this herb in our Women's Daily Vitality)
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Chamomile has soothing properties and is often consumed as tea. It may help alleviate anxiety, irritability, and promote relaxation during PMS. What a great herb for relaxation in general. Many cultures promote chamomile tea before bedtime to promote relaxation and sleep.
Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus): Raspberry leaf tea is commonly used to support women's reproductive health. It may help regulate menstrual cycles and relieve cramps associated with PMS. This herb has a historical use for urinary tract issues and for certain women can be highly effective when used properly. (Find this herb in our Female Hormone Balance Blend)
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce inflammation, bloating, and pain associated with PMS. Eat turmeric every day, use it as a spice or take it as a tincture. Enerhealth Botanicals makes a unique spagyric turmeric tincture.
Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus): is an herb that is commonly used to help alleviate menstrual cramps, including those associated with PMS. It is also known by other names such as guelder rose or snowball tree. Cramp bark has a long history of traditional use for various women's health issues, including menstrual cramps.
Cramp bark contains compounds that are believed to have antispasmodic properties, meaning they can help relax smooth muscle tissue, including the muscles of the uterus. By promoting muscle relaxation, cramp bark may help reduce the intensity and frequency of uterine contractions, thereby alleviating cramps.
While scientific evidence on the effectiveness of cramp bark specifically for PMS is limited, it is often included in herbal formulas or consumed as a tea or tincture to help manage menstrual cramps. Some individuals find relief from their PMS-related cramps by using cramp bark, but individual responses may vary. We see many women purchase Cramp bark tincture at Enerhealth Botanicals, word must be getting out.
As always, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified herbalist before using cramp bark or any herbal supplement to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation and to determine the correct dosage. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and any other medications or conditions you may have.
Sources:
Black Cohosh has Central Opioid Activity in Postmenopausal Women: Evidence from Naloxone Blockade and PET Neuroimaging Studies - PMC (nih.gov)
Complementary and alternative medicine for menopausal symptoms: a review of randomized, controlled trials - PubMed (nih.gov)
Analysis of thirteen populations of black cohosh for formononetin - PubMed (nih.gov)
Treatment for the premenstrual syndrome with agnus castus fruit extract: prospective, randomised, placebo controlled study - PMC (nih.gov)
Traditional Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, Biological Properties, and Health Applications of Vitex sp - PubMed (nih.gov)
Estrogenic activity of herbs commonly used as remedies for menopausal symptoms - PubMed (nih.gov)
Evaluation of estrogenic activity of plant extracts for the potential treatment of menopausal symptoms - PubMed (nih.gov)
The effect of Hypericum perforatum on postmenopausal symptoms and depression: A randomized controlled trial - ScienceDirect
The effect of Hypericum perforatum on postmenopausal symptoms and depression: A randomized controlled trial - ScienceDirect
The effect of Matricaria chamomile on menstrual related mood disorders - ScienceDirect
The effect of Matricaria chamomile on menstrual related mood disorders - PubMed (nih.gov)
10 Best Teas for Menopause Hot Flashes & Other Symptoms (healthline.com)
Red raspberry leaf tea: Nurition, benefits, and how to use (medicalnewstoday.com)
Botanicals and Their Bioactive Phytochemicals for Women’s Health - PMC (nih.gov)
Viburnum opulus - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics
Effects of a Herbal Formulation on Premenstrual Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial - ScienceDirect
