Alternative remedies for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome can be very uncomfortable for many women, some more than others. There are several alternative remedies and treatments for PMS. Research has found some of them to be effective and others less so.

Acupuncture for PMS

Some women have gotten some relief from lower abdominal pain after having acupuncture. Reflexology is a variation of acupuncture in which needles are not used. Instead, pressure is put on acupuncture points. This has also relieved PMS symptoms for some women.

Yoga for PMS

Increased stress levels have been found to worsen PMS symptoms in some women. Any form of meditation and relaxation usually reduces symptoms of PMS by relieving stress.

Spinal manipulation

Spinal manipulation carried out by a chiropractor in the week before menstruation may relieve PMS symptoms.

Light therapy for PMS-related depression

Light therapy (phototherapy) uses a bright florescent light to treat conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Women with SAD are more likely to have depression associated with PMS so light therapy may help to relieve PMS-related depression. You should not use light therapy if:

1. you are taking drugs for vitiligo
2. you are taking drugs for psoriasis
3. you are using certain antipsychotic drugs (used to treat mental disorders)
4. you are using certain antibiotics

Side effects include:

1. headache
2. eyestrain
3. irritability

Stay awake to relieve PMS symptoms

Staying awake may help to relieve menopause symptoms. Some people believe that sleeping only 4 hours in one night and then making up for it by having a good night’s rest the next night may help to correct abnormal sleeping and waking patterns which may worsen PMS.

Herbal remedies for PMS

There are several herbal remedies that may help to relieve PMS symptoms. Researchers have not shown convincing evidence that these remedies work better than a placebo (usually a sugar pill), and some can be expensive. However, some women have found them helpful.

1. Evening Primrose oil – This may help symptoms like bloating, soreness of the breast and nipples and depression.
2. Chastetree berry – This may help with PMS and irregular periods. It contains substances which resemble sex hormones so you should avoid it if you have a chance of getting pregnant or if you are trying to get pregnant, as there is a chance it may harm the developing baby.