Nobody likes PMS. If we could, we'd do away with it altogether- it's dreadful. It brings with it emotional changes, fatigue, irritability, and horrible cramps.
Since taking a week off every month due to PMS is impractical and near impossible, we have to find ways to deal with it.
There are numerous medicines for managing this condition, but what if you're looking for a more natural way? Well, native people have used herbs for hundreds of years for this purpose. Here are some of the herbs we recommend you take internally for PMS relief:
1 Motherwort (leonurus cardiaca)
The ancient Greeks gave this herb to expecting mothers to soothe their anxiety in childbirth.
Motherwort helps in relieving painful cramps and strengthening the uterine muscles, thus keeping cramping away. This herb is a gentle hormonal regulator when used with other herbs. However, if your flow is heavy, avoid using it because of its affinity with the heart and blood.
2 Black cohosh (cimicifuga racemosa)
The roots of black cohosh have anti-inflammatory and mild sedative properties. The Native Americans used it to manage the pain and stress caused by PMS. It works well in stopping painful cramps and irritability, as well as helping the body regulate and balance the hormonal cycle.
3 Cramp bark (viburnum opulus)
This herb is excellent at relieving all kinds of muscle cramps and spasms, especially menstrual ones. It's also anti-inflammatory.
Use one heaped teaspoon for every cup of water to make tea from the bark. Drink this before and during your period. The herb eases bloating and cramps before your period, and slows down heavy bleeding.
4 Red raspberry (rubus idaeus)
Women usually use red raspberry before and during their period, due to its anti-inflammatory nature. It has a calming effect on the uterine muscles and also regulates blood flow. What's more, it alleviates painful menstrual cramps.
To enjoy maximum benefits of this plant, use the dry leaves to make tea with hot water.
Note: If you're drying the raspberry yourself, make sure that it is completely dry before consuming it. It releases a component while drying that is difficult to digest.
5 Mugwort (artemisia vulgaris)
Mugwort is a bitter herb that also operates as a nerve tonic. It calms the stress that can interfere with your cycle. Using this potent herb stimulates and regulates your menstrual cycle.
You can take mugwort as a tea or an extract. We recommend using it in the evening to enjoy its calming effect.
CAUTION: Avoid this herb if you're trying to get pregnant, as it induces abortion.
With love,
The Sole Toscana Beauty Team
