Natural PMS Relief |
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| Written by Stephen Byrnes, ND, RNCP | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| December 30 2000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
I will increase your labour and your groaning, and in labour you shall bear children. Unfortunately for many women, the pains of labour come every month. PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, is a collection of symptoms suffered by scores of women the world over. Water retention and bloating, tender breasts, moodiness, insomnia, abdominal pains and headaches are among the unpleasant symptoms many women experience, starting a week or two before menstruation actually begins. Although the allopathic medical profession has long held that PMS is a "psychosomatic" problem, studies have confirmed what holistic therapists have known all along: PMS has genuine physical causes that respond well to natural therapies. Natural therapists have long thought that the root of premenstrual syndrome is biochemical, resulting ultimately in hormonal imbalance. Today it is axiomatic that PMS is a condition of excess estrogen with a corresponding deficiency of progesterone. Poor nutrition with resulting deficiencies of several key nutrients affect factors which control inflammation, fluid balance and even mood. Although the causes of PMS are numerous and not completely understood, it is still possible to give some natural approaches that can benefit all women.General dietary guidelines include the complete elimination of all "junk" food, as well as all stimulants (coffee, tea, alcohol, chocolate and refined sugar). The diet should contain adequate animal protein, plenty of healthy animal fats, complex carbohydrates and a variety of fresh vegetables. Fresh fruits may be included unless a yeast infection is present. All commercial vegetable oils, both liquid and partially hydrogenated, should be excluded as these interfere with key prostaglandins and the regulation of hormone production. Foods rich in vitamin A, vitamin D, the B complex (especially B6 and pantothenic acid), vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and certain long-chain fatty acids should be stressed as all of these nutrients seem to be key in easing the symptoms of PMS. In addition to foods rich in these nutrients, food supplements supply additional nutrients that may be impossible to obtain with food alone. The following are recommendations only. For a truly personalized supplement program, one should see a properly trained health professional familiar with vitamin/mineral therapy:
*Note: Vitamin B6 should only be taken along with a B complex supplement. In studies, vitamin A has proven beneficial in reducing some PMS symptoms. Be sure to use a natural source of this nutrient, such as cod liver oil, as synthetic versions can be toxic. Vitamin B6 is a natural diuretic and thus helps with PMS-related bloating. B6 also aids in reducing estrogen to normal levels. Pantothenic acid is always desirable for treating stress. Vitamin E is good for sore breasts and for regulating hormonal levels. This vitamin is also good for irritability and depression. Calcium and magnesium are pivotal in reducing stress, as well as encouraging proper muscle function. Painful cramping and nervous tension are almost always lessened or eradicated with calcium and magnesium supplementation. Long-chain fatty acids prompt the release of anti-inflammatory substances known as prostaglandins. A particular fatty acid, gamma-linoleic acid or GLA, has been shown to be of special value in resolving PMS and other ailments. It is found in evening primrose oil, borage oil or black currant oil. FOODS RICH IN KEY NUTRIENTS FOR PMS
HERBAL HELPSThe following herbs may be taken in capsule, tincture or tea form. If using packaged capsules or extracts, follow the directions on the product's label. For teas, steep 1-2 teaspoons of herb in 1 cup of very hot water, covered, for 10 minutes. If bloating and sore breasts predominate, chamomile and dandelion are both effective diuretics. Diuretic foods include celery, watermelon, asparagus and parsley. To stabilize depression and mood swings, chamomile, lavender, and peppermint are excellent. These herbs, along with red raspberry and kava kava, are good antispasmodics as well, making them excellent for cramps. If headaches occur, these herbs are also indicated: fennel, sarsaparilla, squaw vine, licorice and wild yam, which are all hormonal balancers. They may help in relieving hormone-caused symptoms but should not be overused. HOMEOPATHICS TO CONSIDERPulsatilla is probably the most famous of all PMS remedies. It is indicated for mood swings marked by weepiness. Mag. Phos. should be used for cramping and nervous tension. The cell salt Kali. Phos. is also indicated for frazzled nerves. If there is intense pain marked by anger, homeopathic Chamomilla is the remedy of choice. If the pains become worse after getting angry, this remedy works best. Homeopathic Belladonna is indicated if there are cramping pains made worse by motion. The pains may extend from the uterus to the back accompanied by frequent headaches. Lachesis is the best pick for PMS symptoms that improve dramatically or completely disappear once the menstrual flow starts. With this condition, the pains may extend into the upper abdomen and chest. For all of these remedies, the 6C-30C potencies should work best. Take them twice a day, or as needed. When using all homeopathics, avoid caffeine, menthol and camphor as these substances act as antidotes to the remedies. EXERCISEDaily exercise, even 15-20 minutes of brisk walking, increases oxygen consumption. This helps to improve health, as well as to remove toxins from the body. Exercise also helps to keep hormone levels stable. OTHER CONSIDERATIONSAs we know, PMS can have many different causes. Women who suffer from PMS should investigate the possibility that other conditions, such as endometriosis, candidiasis, food allergies, and heavy metal poisoning may be contributing factors. Candidiasis should be suspected if strong sugar cravings are present. See your natural health care provider for more help with these other causes. MIASMDr. Samuel Hahnemann, the father of homeopathy, believed that certain diseases "tainted" the blood line and were often the cause of chronic health problems in the descendants of those who originally had the disease. Hahnemann taught that tuberculosis, gonorrhea and syphilis could cause miasm in whole families. For women with chronic pelvic, reproductive, or menstrual problems of any type, it would behoove them to investigate further the possibility that one of their ancestors (male or female) may have had syphilis or gonorrhea. If so, consult a homeopathic physician or practitioner. Usually, the miasm can be removed by administering low potency preparations of either Syphillinum or Medorrhinum for a short time. It should be noted here that miasm can occur from other causes such as chronic drug use (including birth control pills) and other diseases. An accurate medical history is essential when miasm is suspected so that the practitioner can ascertain the probable remedy.  This article appeared in Wise Traditions in Food, Farming and the Healing Arts, the quarterly magazine of the Weston A. Price Foundation, Winter 2000. About the Author Stephen Byrnes, BA, MA, DR(AM), was a nutritionist and naturopath who grew up in New York and attended Hunter College in New York City where he received his BA in Comparative Religion. After moving to Los Angeles, he completed his MA in Humanities at California State University at Dominguez Hills. He then received his Diploma in Homeobotanical Therapy from the Australasian College, USA, a state-licensed college in Lake Oswego, Oregon, and his Doctorate of Alternative Medicines from the Alternative Medicines Research Institute (AMRI), a licensed and registered educational institution in Gibraltar, European Union, affiliated with the Open International University of Complementary Medicines, Colombo, Sri Lanka. He later received his Graduate Diploma in Naturopathy from the Canadian Alternative Medicines Research Institute (CAMRI), Vancouver, British Columbia. CAMRI is licensed and registered with the Private Post-Secondary Education Commission of British Columbia. Dr. Byrnes had over 100 articles and papers published in health magazines and professional journals around the world. He was an honorary board member of the Weston A. Price Foundation and an editorial board member of the Australian holistic magazine WellBeing. He also authored four books: Digestion Made Simple (Whitman Books; 2002); Diet & Heart Disease: It’s NOT What You Think (Whitman Books; 2001); Overcoming AIDS with Natural Medicine (Healing Light Ministries; 2001); and The Lazy Person's Whole Foods Cookbook (Healing Light Ministries; 2001). Dr Byrnes died of a stroke in 2004 at the age of 42. During the final years of his life, he suffered extreme physical, emotional and financial stress, including threats from a stalker and having to defend himself in a frivolous lawsuit. He is greatly missed by his many friends and colleagues at the Weston A. Price Foundation.  Comments (17)
Feeling Crazy
written by Kristi , Oct 03 2011
I am trying to find something that will help my volitile mood swings that I get a day or two before I start my period. I am not someone that generally feels angry, but during this time of every month I become a different person. I want to find something that will help curb what I can only assume to be a hormonal imbalance without going to the dr. for a perscription.
Heavy bleeding / PMS / Cramping Relief
written by Lucia Hawley, Jul 11 2011
Borage oil, borage oil, borage oil! It has been a lifesaver for me. I no longer feel restricted to staying at home or worry about excessive bleeding when I don't have access to a bathroom. I have always had very heavy bleeding with considerable cramping. I tried going on birth control for it but that was an awful idea, it messed me up emotionally, and well, just plain old wasn't worth it at all (still trying to rebalance myself after being off the birth control for a full year. what an awful idea!). About six months ago I read that the GLA in borage oil could be helpful for PMS (in the same vein as evening primrose oil). I now tell every friend who complains of cramping and heavy flow about borage oil. It should be easy to find at your local co-op in capsule form--if not, please order online! I never thought I would have any sort of real relief from my monthly woes--I seriously cannot write eloquently enough about how much my life has changed for the better. I take one capsule in the morning and one at night right before and throughout my period.
hormonal acne
written by Umm Bader, Feb 17 2011
Thanks for the advice.. I am in my early twenties and I am breastfeeding. When I first got my period at 7 months after birth, I started getting very oily skin and cystic acne. This only comes in a few days before my period then disappears right after which is clearly a case of hormonal acne. When I was pregnant I had clear skin. What can I take that is safe during breastfeeding? I read about birth control but want something different that would regulate my hormonal levels- something safe while breastfeeding?
Response to Mary D, Abigail and Fatima
written by Jay, Nov 23 2010
Hello Mary D, Fatima and Abigail
Have you all tried to Strictly avoid all Xenoestrogens and phytoestrogens? I use ONLY Baking Soda for washing (dishes, laundry, body, even my hair). I do no trust any products out there even those that promise to be eco friendly, gentle organic etc.. Women do not need any makeup or perfume products either. Do you all know how beautiful we are just the way we are.... in our natural state? and i mean it!  no matter what new line there is now that promises an all natural makeup, I would avoid it. Next, you may wish to try this website, this guy offers I3C that balances the estrogen and a progesterone based oil (available both in coconut oil base and non coconut one). they are both excellent products and have given me a lot of relief from mood swings, bloating headaches, pain etc.. his website is www.womhoo.com. The website is not very well made but the treatment he offers through his products are well worth a try. Good Luck! and hope you all heal soon! Jay
Diarrhea accomponies beginning of period.
written by Abigail, Nov 22 2010
About 6 months ago I started having much more severe cramps than I did before. I get them every month now and for a few hours when I first start my period I will have diarrhea. I will be in the bathroom for about 2 hours before I feel better. I am trying my best to eat by Nourishing Traditions standards, but I have no idea what I should do. It's so embarrassing, and looking online doesn't help. Modern medicine basically just says 'deal with it'. Does anyone know what I can do?
PMS issues
written by Mary D., Oct 13 2010
Hi all,
Unfortunately my period started when I was eleven  Ever since then I have had severe period pain. No homeopathic or natural remedy did ANYTHING. When I was sixteen I discovered the natural way of eating and have tried to stick to it. Although I have been able to reduce the symptoms by taking up to 4000 mg of pure chemical free fish oil a day and rarely-if ever, eating sugar or white flour I still am in a lot of pain for at least two days. We buy organic milk, raw milk is illegal in VA, and eat fresh eggs from our chickens daily. I still can't figure it out though because the pain is so bad sometimes that I get something like a fever--hot and cold and then hot again. I took unrefined, organic coconut oil daily for a while but recently I took it and was sick for two days straight. For some reason my body decided it didn't like it anymore. Is there any other thing I could take instead? I just can't eat it anymore.... If anybody had any ideas of what I could do for the period pains that would be great! I have managed to get rid of almost all the symptoms except for the pain. Exercise isn't the issue either; I walk/bike for hour or two a day. I feel like I have tried every natural medicine out there! The only thing that puts a damper on the pain is ibuprofen, and I really don't want to have to take the stuff for four days straight. thanks Mary D.
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written by Fatima, Oct 05 2010
I am a 34 year old mother of two. I came to North America in 2008 and ever since I have had some problems with my skin. Every winter, My skin becomes so dry and itchy that I have to follow a ritual of rubbing petroleum jelly all over otherwise life is impossible. Strangely enough my facial skin has acne all over, something I should not be suffering from at this age!! Finally, about a week before my period, I begin to feel tired, nauseated and extremely irritable, even yelling at the kids-I tell you this just isnt me!! I am following a WAPF diet as much as I can, but havent started on grass fed meats and eggs yet. Can any one help?
What works best for us
written by George D. Henderson, Sep 28 2010
Here is what works best in our family, after years of experimenting. The problem was severe mid-cycle moods as well as PMT; Krill oil (not fish oil) 600mg 2x daily, ginkgo 4,000mg 2x daily. Vitamin C, B complex, milk thistle are also used but are optional - the krill oil and ginkgo are non-negotiable and also a diet high in meat, green veges, fish and some animal fats. It takes about two cycles to totally change things around. An earlier model used DIM, fish oil, and niacinamide but was more expensive and less reliable.
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written by Jobert, Aug 06 2010
Re: RoiH--your story is a little similar to mine! I was on the pill for four years, and when I started getting migraines at age 31, I decided to stop the pill in addition to cutting certain foods that are migraine triggers from my diet. I expected my irregular periods from my pre-pill days to come back, but they didn't.
I suspect it is because I have been following as much as I can the WAPF diet. In particular, I have stopped eating meat or dairy from CAFOs. It is a lot more expensive to buy from a farm directly, but I think the better quality (and lack of hormones in the animal products) has played a role in my regular menstrual cycles.
Stopping the pill, good quality animal products
written by Jobert, Aug 06 2010
Re: RoiH--your story is a little similar to mine! I was on the pill for four years, and when I started getting migraines at age 31, I decided to stop the pill in addition to cutting certain foods that are migraine triggers from my diet. I expected my irregular periods from my pre-pill days to come back, but they didn't.
I suspect it is because I have been following as much as I can the WAPF diet. In particular, I have stopped eating meat or dairy from CAFOs. It is a lot more expensive to buy from a farm directly, but I think the better quality (and lack of hormones in the animal products) has played a role in my regular menstrual cycles.
PMS cure...please read:
written by Suvetar, Jul 27 2010
I used to have severe pain to the point of passing out in cold sweats. Here is what I did to rid myself from severe PMS pains:
Ditch ALL grains and refined sugars 7 days before menstruation. At the same time take Fish Oil/Cod Liver Oil 1000mg - 3000mg daily. Try and limit the consumption of additional foods high in carbohydrates. About 3-4 days prior to the start of menstruation take Hydro-C to eliminate most of the stools hanging around in the gut pushing against the swollen uterus. This will give the uterus more room. Hydro-C can be purchased from Konstantin Monastyrsky, Author of the Book FIBER MENACE. www.gutsense.org Good Luck, hope this helps 
I do believe that a nutrient dense diet does wonders to regulate menstrual cycle
written by Roih, Jun 30 2010
Related to PMS but not related to PMS... because I literally lost all traces of my menstruation for 5 years. I did have some thyroid problems and was taking medication for that, so the doctor suspected that one hormonal disorder trigger another set of hormonal disorder. Who knows.
During that 5 year period, I found that the only way I would get my period for one cycle or two was to increase my weight by over 20 lbs...when I cut back around 5lbs, it stopped again. Now since I wasn't exactly thin to begin with, that wasn't a very appealing solution to my chronic menstrual disorder...so I just lost the remaining 15 lbs and was beginning to half give up on my important female function. Believe it or not, what did the trick was the WAPF diet. I used to be eating pretty "healthy" USDA-stye, meaning lean protein, low fat dairy, complex carbs, fruits and veggies and veggies and veggies. After discovering WAPF two months ago, I started to add back the natural fat, doubled up on eggs etc... and lo and behold, I had my period this month. It's the first time at my 'normal weight' for years and I almost cried (I did not gain weight after starting the WAPF diet, despite my caloric intake increasing by about 60-70%...bewildering).
Our Estrogen dominant world
written by Cathy Margolin, May 03 2010
Rosie is absolutely correct about the estrogen dominance within our world. We know that plastics leach estrogen like chemicals called BPA which mimic estrogen in the female body. BPA are in our food supply through the use of plastics. When plastic's are exposed to hard use or high temperatures (as in microwaves or dishwashers) they leach these chemicals into our food supply. Now BPA free plastic baby bottles and water bottles are available and I strongly encourage everyone to use them. But for many of our current teens and 20's something they were not so lucky. I agree with all Rosie's suggestions and want to add that you should never microwave your food in plasctic and I believe even storing your food in the refrigerator in PLASTIC is not sufficiently safe. Glass is non-toxic and will also keep your food fresher longer. A little more expensive but your health should be worth it.
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written by Rosie Crowe, Feb 04 2010
Yes, definitely DO NOT put her on birthcontrol; that will only increase her apparent estrogen overload. Menstrual problems are often the first sign of hormone imbalances. I have been doing research in this arena for a few years now and know just how terrible PMS can be! I also vomited (I also got migranes in my later stages). This is most definitely a hormone imbalance, specifically estrogen dominance & could also include a level of adrenal fatigue, which usually brings down progesterone levels. The first thing to do is get your daughter off of ALL estrogen products, such as personal care products (face wash, hair care, makeup, perfumes, etc.) that are not 100% natural and paraben-free (synthetic chemicals are the main cause of estrogen dominance). There are some great lines out there (including lovely makeup) that are not full of toxins. Free free to email me for specifics brands, but I will mention Aubrey Organics as a great line of skin care, makeup and hair care. And it's very affordable; you can find it in most health food stores and I think you can order online, too. Make sure you also avoid all detergents w/ chemicals; best thing is to order a "green" laundry ball. I use True Green brand -- works awesome(even on the stinkiest clothes) and is cheaper per year than even the junky store detergents. Don't forget this component b/c so many estrogens are absorbed via the skin and laundry detergents are some of the worst culprits. The 2nd thing I'd recommend is to run a saliva hormone test (this is an at-home test that you order yourself & results w/ explanation will be sent to your home). Canary Club has the best deals on ZRT saliva hormone tests, which are the best way to check your daughter's exact hormone status ($99 kit includes all the major hormones and would be perfect for her). The reason I so highly recommend doing the saliva tests is that, unless you do that, it's really all just guess work -and you don't want to do that when symptoms are so pronounced. Plus, you could end up spending money on "remedies" that are not getting to the root cause of the symptoms. Thankfully, these imbalances can be remedied quite quickly with eliminating synthetic estrogens & using (if needed) products like natural progesterone (use Apex's brand, spray form of natural progesterone if she comes out low NOT creams/gels b/c these can get passed onto others she's in daily contact w/ via touch -- been there done that and believe me you don't want that happening -- too much of a hormone is as bad a too little (my young boys became progesterone dominant due to my contact w/ them when I used the creams)! Make sure you check up on her status every few months by ordering another saliva test (until she's balanced and then check maybe 1-2 times per year). You'll know if she gets too high on progesterone if her daily temp gets consistently above 98.6, and you'll know if she gets too low if her original symptoms return (again,assuming this is what she needs, along w/ eliminating synthetic estrogens). Please believe me when I say these saliva hormone tests are money well spent and will help guide you in the right direction to restore her health & protect your daughter from many further health issues caused by esrogen dominance, including fertility problems & breast cancer. Feel free to email w/ any questions; I'm so passionate about this b/c I got so bad that I was basically bedridden for over 3 years. Hormones are your friends -- just got to treat them right :).
No to Birth Control pills for young girls who have PMS
written by Cathy Margolin, Jan 25 2010
Tabatha, I'm happy to hear you don't want to put your daughter on birth control at 13 for PMS problems. As an Primary Health Provider, Acupuncturist and mother of 2 teen girls I strongly encourage you to try some natural alternatives. I have just brought to market a Chinese herb formula for cramps, bloating, irritability .. all menstrual symptoms which is made from all natural herbs, nothing else.(Girls are loving it.) I don't mean to plug my product but please follow your instinct, birth control pills are not the answer for our young daughters. My product and others on the market will help her. Make sure she's getting enough exercise and limit her sugar intake. Menstrual cycle pain is not normal and should be viewed in the bigger picture.. gentle balancing of hormones through diet, exercise and supplements. Best of luck, if you wish to contact me I'm at http://wwww.pacherbs.com also.
... written by Tabatha Burks, Jan 20 2010
I am a concerned mother of a 13 yr old that is in having severe pms problems which includes vomiting,,the docter wants to put her on birth control to elevate her hormone level,,but i dont want to do that because it increases her chances of cancer and future problems.
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| Last Updated on Friday, June 05 2009 18:29 |
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I have recently added krill oil to my supplementation. At the time I didn't know that it would affect PMS; I took it for cardiac and mood benefits. It does take a few cycles to notice, but after about two months I started my period with no suggestion it was coming. No food cravings, cramps, insomnia or mood issues. It really works.