Treating PMS Naturally

 For a Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body

PMS: Treatment Options

The first step in treating PMS is to make sure you are as healthy as you could possibly be. It really does make a difference! The healthier and fitter you are, the less likely you are to suffer from PMS. So...... exercise regularly, follow a balanced and healthy diet (no crash diets and binges!) and make  sure that you have sufficient sleep and time to relax. This may all sound boring, but is part of caring for yourself and can significantly reduce the symptoms of PMS.

If you think that there are problems in your relationships or within yourself which are contributing to  your PMS, think carefully about your life and GET HELP if you need it. Visit a therapist or go to Online Counseling.

If you crave chocolate or rich foods during your pre-menstrual time, you may be lacking in a brain chemical called serotonin. This can cause moodiness and a tendency to tears.   Regular use of St John's Wort can help. Dong Quai, if used regularly, is also well-known for relieving the symptoms of PMS. Feelgood Health has developed Femalite, a special remedy to prevent moodiness, bloating and irritability before menstruation. All these remedies are available from the Health Pharmacy. A good multivitamin, containing  Evening Primrose Oil or Starflower Oil, is a must. All these supplements need to be taken every day, not just before menstruation!   Allow a three month trial to assess before you give up.

To avoid excessive water retention and "bloating", avoid salty foods for a week before menstruation. Drinking diuretic teas like camomile or rooibos tea can relieve water retention, as can certain foods with the same properties. These include cucumber, celery, watermelon and grapes. Abdominal cramps during menstruation are also helped by drinking pennyroyal tea. Herbal teas can be drunk hot or iced, depending on your taste and the weather. They are usually drunk without milk and sweetened with sugar or honey and can help to soothe the symptoms of PMS.  Avoid coffee, especially pre-menstrually.

If there are problems in your relationships, or if you are experiencing difficulties in dealing with stress, remember that YOU are in charge. For professional help go to Online Counseling. The symptoms of PMS are exacerbated by stress and relationship problems and these are things which CAN be changed with the correct approach!

If you have problems with body image and self esteem, the best thing you can do to help PMS is to be kind to yourself. That includes looking after your health as I have indicated above. But also spoil yourself. Take time out in a bath filled with aromatic oils like lavender, surrounded by candles and perhaps a glass of wine or herbal tea. Soothing background music helps. Relax and think good thoughts about yourself. Many women "punish" themselves subconsciously before menstruation and work too hard or surround themselves with stress.  Make especially sure that you are not following this pattern, by caring for yourself and taking it easy in the week before menstruation begins.

For any further help with PMS, you are welcome to request an email consultation.

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