Home Remedies for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome or PMS is a collective term used to refer to a variety of physical as well as psychological symptoms associated with menstrual cycle in females. These symptoms usually begin after ovulation and last till the onset of menstruation, mostly till the first two days. Though, in rare cases, the problem may last throughout menstruation as well.

This problem is more common in women between the ages of 20 and 40. Headache, bloating, vomiting, dizziness, acne, depression, irritation, and mood swings are the most common complaints associated with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).

The symptoms may start appearing few days or even weeks (2 weeks) before menstruation and tend to become worse near the onset of menstruation. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more severe form of this problem.

Premenstrual syndrome is a complex problem that can be treated at home with the help of numerous natural home remedies for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Apart from these natural remedies, certain lifestyle changes like adequate exercise, proper diet and emotional support help a great deal in controlling the symptoms.

Causes and Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome

No specific factor can be successfully attributed in causing Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). Some experts believe that Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a result of hormonal imbalance that is, increase in progesterone and decrease in estrogen. But, recent studies indicate that this troublesome problem could be caused by an increased sensitivity to normal levels of progesterone hormone during the menstrual cycle.

Hereditary factors also play an important role in causing this common ailment. Faulty diet and lifestyle have also been associated with worsening of the symptoms. Psychological conditions, especially stress tend to worsen the symptoms but they can not be held responsible for causing Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) wholly.

The symptoms are not the same in all the cases. Even intensity of symptoms varies from one individual to another. Still, some common symptoms of Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are bloating, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, food craving, headache, increased heart rate, fatigue, dizziness, water retention, weight gain, acne, recurrent cold sores, breast tenderness, abdominal pain, changes in bowel movement, changes in the sleep pattern and a host of other symptoms.

Symptoms related to mood changes include emotional fluctuations in the form of irritability, anger, depression, crying spells, anxiety, confusion, oversensitivity, forgetfulness and overall exaggerated mood changes. These symptoms are considered normal when present mildly.

But, they are considered serious when they become severe enough to disrupt the normal lifestyle and activities. The symptoms tend to worsen temporarily in the perimenopausal period.

Natural Home Remedies for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

• Hot water baths are highly beneficial in the prevention as well as treatment of Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) by soothing the muscles and reducing abdominal pain and cramping.
• Drinking a glass of water mixed with approximately ten drops of chase tree extract is one of the most effective natural home remedies for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
• Having red wine in moderation is one of the most successful home remedies for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) treatment.
• Taking a glass of warm milk mixed with one teaspoon of cinnamon serves as a valuable home remedy in the treatment of Premenstrual syndrome or PMS related pains.
• Evening primrose oil is useful in getting rid of Premenstrual syndrome in a natural way.
• Lavender oil or rose oil can be used for aromatherapy in order to reduce the emotional fluctuations.
• Herbal teas like jasmine tea, green tea, peppermint tea, chamomile tea are excellent home remedies for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) by soothing the mind as well as the body. Yarrow tea and pickle juice are effective natural remdies for curing Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) causing pain and cramping.
• Therapies like acupressure and yoga act as effective natural cures for controlling PMS related symptoms.

Diet for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

A healthy diet including a judicious mix of a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps in curing Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Vitamin B6, vitamin E, calcium, potassium and magnesium have been associated with reduction in the symptoms. Vitamin B6, in particular, is useful in dealing with Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) causing psychological changes and food cravings.

Dairy products and high fiber foods should be positively included in the diet to eliminate such troubles.

Broccoli, brussels sprouts, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, bananas, cantaloupe, cranberry juice, citrus fruits, cranberry juice etc are highly beneficial in healing most of the problems associated with this ailment.

Consumption of soya products is one of the simplest natural home remedies for Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In fact, soya and alfalfa have been found to relieve Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms like water retention and mood swings.

Reduce the intake of salt before menstruation to avoid water retention. Plus, restrict the consumption of colas, alcoholic and caffeinated beverages as a preventive measure. Similarly, restrict the consumption of carbohydrates and refined sugars. Besides, stay away from cigarette smoking and tobacco abuse.

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