How To Treat Premenstrual Syndrome At Home

28 May, 2009 No Comment

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects many women with the onset of their menstrual cycle. There are over 150 symptoms that can occur. Women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome may experience swollen or tender breasts, headaches and body aches, especially in the lower back and legs, joint and muscle pains, cramps oftentimes severe enough to cause nausea and or vomiting, an increase in their weight and swelling around the face, hands and ankles due to water retention.

A woman suffering from premenstrual syndrome may go through moods swings including irritability, anxiety and depression. Their skin and hair may become oilier. A woman may experience a change in appetite and have cravings for sweet, salty or irony tasting foods.

There are several causes of premenstrual syndrome. The most common cause is the change in a woman’s hormones prior to getting her period. A woman’s body naturally contains an even balance of both male and female hormones. As the woman enters her premenstrual stage, her levels of prolactin increase while levels of progesterone decrease. Another cause of premenstrual syndrome may be a lack of magnesium or calcium in the woman’s body.

There are several ways to treat premenstrual syndrome at home. Try taking a hot bath to relax the sore muscles and reduce the swelling in the body. A glass of red wine may also relax the body and alleviate the symptoms. Drink a cup of hot tea with lemon juice and a bit of whisky. Teas such as peppermint and chamomile have a soothing effect on the body. The Chase tree herb has been used as a natural remedy to treat premenstrual syndrome. Add ten drops of the chase tree extract to a glass of water and drink daily.

Other home remedies that have proven results include having a diet high in potassium. Potassium can come from broccoli, fish, and beans. A woman needs to keep her blood sugar level stabilized and should practice eating, many small meals during the day. Caffeine makes the body feel agitated and bloated.

By decreasing the amount of caffeine a woman consume prior to and during her menstrual cycle, she can decrease the amount of irritability or anxiety that she would normally feel. Also, a diet that is low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish will help to alleviate the bloated feeling.

Red meats and foods that are high in fat are known to increase the amount of estrogen in a woman’s body, which can in turn enhance the severity of the premenstrual symptoms. Certain vitamins and minerals can also combat the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

Add 1000mg of magnesium as well as vitamin E and B6 to a daily diet. A woman who suffers from premenstrual syndrome can find relief by exercising regularly. Some women take birth control pills as well.