Do you suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or period pain? Almost all women do – in fact, research suggests that as many as 85% of menstruating women experience at least one premenstrual symptom each month. The variety and severity of these can vary widely from one woman to the next.

What are the symptoms of PMS and period pain?

1. Some women experience purely physical menstrual symptoms like stomach cramps (also known as dysmenorrhoea), back pain or headaches.
2. Others are affected emotionally (for example becoming more inclined to feel weepy, irritable or angry) or experience cognitive issues (such as difficulty concentrating or remembering things).
3. Finally, some women experience behavioural changes. Examples include finding themselves lacking motivation to complete their daily work or household tasks, or finding it more difficult than usual to resist taking an afternoon nap or over-indulging in sweet, starchy or salty foods.

In many instances, women experience a combination of these and other symptoms, adding up to a few days of discomfort or misery every month. Additionally, up to 10% of women experience symptoms so severe that they are highly disruptive to day-to-day life, interfering with work, school, family life, relationships and self-esteem. Luckily, there are herbal medicines available that may help to relieve your symptoms and support the health of your reproductive system.

Vitex reduces the frequency and severity of PMS symptoms

The Western herb Vitex (also known as Chaste Tree) is highly regarded for helping to regulate the hormonal imbalances associated with PMS, and has been the subject of numerous clinical trials, where it has overwhelmingly been shown to be more effective than placebo for the relief of PMS symptoms. Vitex may be particularly suitable for you if your cycle is irregular, and/or if your premenstrual symptoms include irritability, tension, mood swings, breast tenderness, acne, abdominal bloating, fluid retention or feelings of pelvic congestion. It may need to be taken for at least three menstrual cycles before reaching its full effect, but faster results are also possible.

Dong Quai, Peony and Ginger relieve period pain

Dong Quai and Peony are regarded as some of the most important herbs for women’s health and gynaecological issues in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and have a long history of use for helping to regulate women’s cycles and relieve period pain. From the perspective of TCM, Dong Quai and Peony are both believed to work by acting on the Blood to promote appropriate menstrual flow. Peony is also traditionally believed to have analgesic properties and a relaxing effect on the uterus to further reduce pain. These herbs are often taken in combination with Ginger, which has warming, antispasmodic properties. In clinical studies, Ginger has been shown to significantly reduce period pain while also helping to relieve a wide variety of physical, emotional and behavioural PMS symptoms. TIP: For optimal results, take Dong Quai, Peony and Ginger for at least three menstrual cycles before deciding if they’re right for you. If you suffer from headaches or migraines before or during your period, look for a formula that also includes the traditional Chinese herb Ligusticum.

Tienchi addresses heavy menstrual bleeding

Aside from being physically draining and increasing your risk of developing iron deficiency, heavy menstrual bleeding (sometimes referred to as flooding) can be difficult to manage and often makes women feel self-conscious and nervous about the risk of embarrassing leakage. The Chinese herb Tienchi Ginseng has traditionally been used to help manage heavy menstrual blood flow. It’s considered particularly beneficial when blood flow in the pelvic area has become congested or stagnant, or when clots are present in the menstrual blood. In addition to helping to reduce flooding, Tienchi has anti-fatigue and anti-stress properties and helps to enhance stamina and endurance during exercise. It has also traditionally been used to assist healthy weight loss when taken with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Mr Vitamins recommends

Fusion Health, premium quality Australian-made supplements that combine the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine and the science of modern Western herbalism, including:

• Fusion Women’s Balance: With Dong Quai, Peony, Ginger and Ligusticum to support women’s reproductive health
• Fusion Vitex: Relieves PMS symptoms and promotes healthy periods
• Fusion Tienchi Ginseng: Traditionally used to relieve heavy menstrual bleeding