Premenstrual
syndrome
Many
different sets of symptoms can be present, either in isolation or
in groups, in the days preceding menstruation. Dietary considerations
(mostly because of their effect on the liver, which also metabolizes
reproductive hormones) are extremely important, and simplifying
the diet while supporting the liver may provide relief on its own.
More “stubborn” cases should include hormonal and endocrine
balancing, and herbal treatment appropriate to the symptomatology
(see below).
Treatment
Goal(s):
· Adjust the diet, tonify the liver, adjust hormonal balance,
alleviate symptoms.
Primary
Treatment:
· Administer bitters for liver cooling, including Taraxacum
officinale (Dandelion root), Cynara scolymus (Artichoke leaf), Curcuma
longa (Turmeric), and perhaps Gentiana lutea (Gentian).
· Vitex agnus-castus, one teaspoon once or twice daily, and
Schizandra chinensis to balance hormonal levels.
Supportive Treatment:
· Use a good essential fatty acid supplement (Flax oil or
seeds are appropriate).
· Adrenal qi tonics like Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice), Eleutherococcus
senticosus (Siberian Ginseng), and Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)
can be helpful if stress levels are high.
· Try to eliminate or at least significantly reduce inflammatory
promoters from the diet (e.g. caffeine, tobacco, refined sugars,
allergen-producing grains). Diet should be low in heated oils, free
of trans-fats, and rich in whole grains and vegetables.
Differential diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· If there is nervousness or anxiety, use appropriate nervine
tonics and anxiolytics (Avena, Scutellaria, Piper methysticum).
· If there is fatigue and reduced energy, adrenal tonics
and restoratives become more important.
· If there are symptoms of nervous system deficiency, add
restoratives such as Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort)
and Avena sativa (Oats).
· If there are symptoms of water retention and weight gain,
adding an herbal diuretic tea can be helpful – Taraxacum officinale
(Dandelion leaf), Chimaphila umbellata (Pipsissewa) are helpful.
· Increased aches and pains are usually signs of adrenal
yin deficiency. Add Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) if this herb is
not contra-indicated.
