Natural Remedies for PMS & Menopause

No one loves that time of the month or the realization that menopause is knocking on the door, but some of us have more difficulty than others. If you suffer from extreme PMS or symptoms of menopause this is for you. Before you reach for your Midol or hormone replacements, read about these natural solutions and remedies.

PMS, perimenopause and menopause are all caused by a shift in hormones. Hormones really do rule your body, and are easier to

control that once thought. A few easy steps that can help in the fight against changing hormones are eating a low starch diet, getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, and taking supplements. Below are some amazing alternative supplements to add into your diet depending on where you are in the life cycle.

If you’re suffering from PMS, try Chastberry, also referred to as Vitex. According to studies, this herb reduced PMS cravings, depression, bloating and anxiety in 93% of women. Other remedies to try are fish oils, primrose oil, Vitamin B to reduce water retention and Black Cohosh.

If you’re entering into Perimenopause, which typically starts around 10-12 years before Menopause, you can try a plant grown in Thailand (which has the lowest breast cancer rate in the world) called Pueraria Mirifica or PM. PM helps to balance estrogen levels by working on the receptors. Numerous studies have shown PM to be responsible for relieving hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings. Black Cohosh is also very helpful in relieving hot flashes. Black Cohosh is a wonderful alternative to traditional estrogen, because it does not raise estrogen levels in the breast or uterus(therefore protecting them against possible cancer risk), only in the brain and vagina.

Once Menopause has set in and on the other side of it, PM can be very beneficial. PM helps with bone strength, raises good cholesterol (HDL) and lowers the bad (LDL). PM is also said to prevent saggy breasts. Who doesn’t want that?!?

All of these supplements can be found at your local health food grocery or pharmacy. Of course it is so important to get enough sleep, exercise and eat a healthy diet. Stay healthy!