Come along for a journey through the wonderful world of herbs and their extraordinary ability to alleviate the discomfort of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Get ready to discover the 13 best herbs that hold the key to soothing PMS symptoms. Before we begin our herbal adventure, let's understand what PMS is. PMS refers to a range of physical and emotional symptoms that happen to women in the days leading up to menstruation. But fret not, for nature has provided us with a treasure trove of herbs that can help ease these bothersome occurrences. So, let's explore the magical herbs that can bring comfort during this time!
1. Dong Quai / Angelica Root (Angelica sinensis)
The first herb on our PMS-soothing journey is the remarkable Dong Quai root, known for its incredible healing properties. This root balances fluctuations in hormones and eases menstrual symptoms. It is high in Vitamin B12, which helps to maintain nerve cells and increase energy levels when you're feeling sluggish. In addition, it can help those debilitating premenstrual headaches and migraines in the days leading up to your period. As a great source of Biotin, this herb also improves the appearance of hair, skin, and nails. Let the magical powers of Dong Quai Root embrace you and make you feel more at ease.
FUN FACTS:
Dong Quai, also known as Female Ginseng, is a popular herb in traditional medicine for women's health.
This root has a distinctive aroma and is often used as a key ingredient in herbal formulas to support menstrual health and hormonal balance.
In Chinese culture, Dong Quai is considered a "blood tonic" and is used to nourish and invigorate the blood.
or the dried root slices...
or maybe seeds for planting!
2. Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) Prepare to be captivated by the nurturing powers of Motherwort. This herb helps calm nervous tension and promote relaxation during PMS. It is a nervine that eases stress and anxiety, which leads to an improved mental and emotional state. Leonurus cardiaca is a uterotonic that is aids amenorrhea by regulating menstruation. It's used before and after delivery to induce labor contractions and reduce postpartum hemorrhaging. For pain relief, this herb's anti-inflammatory properties are helpful with reducing menstrual cramps. Allow the caring nature of Motherwort to embrace you and bring tranquility to your mind and body.
FUN FACTS:
Motherwort is a perennial that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for its potential benefits for women's health.
Its leaves have a distinctively bitter taste and a mild lemony aroma.
This herb is mainly used to support cardiovascular health, promote calmness and relaxation, and ease menstrual discomfort.
3. Egyptian Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)
Be enchanted by the beauty and healing powers of the ancient Egyptian Blue Lotus. The calming properties can help reduce anxiety and balance mood swings. It's an anxiolytic sedative, making this herb a great remedy for stress, depression and insomnia. The flower is a natural aphrodisiac which enhances libido and boosts confidence. The herb also relaxes muscles, regulates menstruation, and eases abdominal cramps. Packed with antioxidants and vital nutrients, Egyptian Blue Lotus helps combat free radicals and improves skin appearance. Allow the delicate petals of this magical flower to bring serenity and joy to your most uncomfortable days.
FUN FACTS:
Egyptian Blue Lotus holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in ancient Egyptian civilization.
The flowers were often used in religious ceremonies and art, symbolizing rebirth and spiritual enlightenment.
Dried lotus flowers are used in herbal teas or smoking blends for their calming and relaxation properties.
4. Bupleurum Root (Bupleurum chinense)
Explore the calming and soothing effects of Bupleurum Root on your PMS journey. This herb's mild sedative properties help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that are valuable for easing body aches and pains. The root lifts seasonal depression as well as those premenstrual blues. It is taken to regulate menstruation and reduce many symptoms of menopause. In addition, this herb is alterative which makes it great at boosting the immune system, and is hepatoprotective for maintaining optimal liver health. Let Bupleurum Root's tranquil essence restore balance and harmony to your body and mind.
FUN FACTS:
Bupleurum is a member of the Apiaceae family and is native to East Asia. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
The root contains bioactive compounds, including Saikosaponins, which are valueded for their anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects.
Bupleurum is often used in herbal formulations to support liver health, promote digestion, and alleviate stress.
5. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) Join us in unlocking the aromatic wonders of Rosemary and its healing powers for PMS. This herb's natural antidepressant properties can help combat fatigue and improve mood swings. Rosmarinic acid exerts a relaxant effect on muscles, helping to modulate pain and inflammation signals. Being a carminative herb, it has a calming effect to relieve bloating. The herb is also taken to ease debilitating headaches and migraines brought on by hormonal changes. This plant aids the female reproductive system, and it is an important herb for dealing with both PMS and menopause symptoms. Allow the delightful essence of Rosemary guide you on a journey towards renewed energy and vitality.
FUN FACTS:
Rosemary is an aromatic herb with needle-like leaves and a distinct herbal fragrance. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is now cultivated worldwide.
This herb has been used for centuries in culinary traditions for its flavorful and aromatic qualities. It pairs well with roasted meats, vegetables, and Mediterranean dishes.
In addition to its culinary uses, Rosemary has been associated with various health benefits for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and memory-enhancing properties.
6. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) Get ready to discover the sweet and enchanting Licorice Root, a herb that works wonders for PMS. This root helps balance hormonal levels and alleviate mood swings. Being an estrogenic herb, it offers relief from both premenstrual and menopausal symptoms. This plant's ant-inflammatory properties reduce painful swelling in the pelvic area, and the antispasmodic herb is also helpful for easing abdominal discomfort from bloat. Licorice is a powerful adaptogen that helps the body manage chronic stress and aids in treating adrenal fatigue. Its delightful flavors add a touch of magic to your journey towards emotional harmony.
FUN FACTS:
Licorice root has long been used in Chinese and alternative medicine to enhance the efficacy of herbal remedies.
Many of our ancestors used the herb to keep their teeth clean and anesthetize infected teeth and sore gums.
This root is high in a compound called Glycyrrhizin, which is known to be fifty times sweeter than sugar and gives the root its sweet taste.
or maybe seeds for planting!
7. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Explore the captivating world of Calendula and its remarkable ability to ease PMS symptoms. These flowers possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve menstrual discomfort. It is used to calm muscle spasms, relieve cramps, and reduce abdominal pain caused by menstruation. These flowers also detoxify the body, boost mood, and increase energy levels when you're not feeling the best. Being a vulnerary herb, it increases collagen production and improves skin tone. These effects contribute to improving confidence and self-esteem. Calendula flowers provide relief and add a touch of color to your journey towards a more comfortable cycle.
FUN FACTS:
Calendula flowers are known for their bright yellow and orange hues, which have made them popular as ornamental plants.
This herb has been used traditionally for its soothing properties and is often found in skincare products to help calm and nourish the skin.
In some cultures, Calendula flowers were used to add color and flavor to dishes, such as salads and soups.
or maybe seeds for planting!
8. Damiana Leaf (Turnera diffusa)
Let's welcome the delicate and enchanting Damiana Leaf to our journey. This herb possess a unique power to aid reproductive disorders, calm irritability, and uplift your spirits when you're feeling down. It increases oxygen flow to the brain which eases menstrual headaches and maintains mental stamina. In addition to being a aphrodisiac that increases libido and balances emotional wellness, this herb is a natural antidepressant for treating anxiety and stress. Having a soothing effect of the digestive system, Damiana Leaf is a stomachic herb that promotes appetite and supports digestion. Its gentle touch brings a sense of serenity and helps restore balance to your emotions.
FUN FACTS:
Damiana leaf has a long history of traditional use as an aphrodisiac and for its mood-enhancing properties.
The Mayans and Aztecs used it as a ceremonial herb for its relaxing and calming effects.
This herb is sometimes used in herbal smoking blends for its mild, soothing aroma.
9. Turmeric Root (Curcuma longa) Get ready for a vibrant and golden adventure with the remarkable Turmeric Root! This herb's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with PMS. One of the most powerful ways to relieve pain doesn't come from the pharmacy-- but rather, the kitchen. This bright yellow spice used in Indian cooking contains one of the best pain relievers found in nature, Curcumin. This compound helps with abdominal bloating, reduces pelvic inflammation and eases pain from menstrual cramps. Embrace the warm and radiant hues of turmeric as it adds a touch of magic to your well-being.
FUN FACTS:
Turmeric Root is a vibrant yellow-orange root that is widely used as a spice in cooking, particularly in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines, giving curry its distinct color.
The active compound in Turmeric Root, called Curcumin, has been extensively studied for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and health-promoting properties.
Turmeric has a long history of traditional use in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for its benefits in supporting digestion, liver health, and joint function.
10. Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus)
Join us in exploring the unknown world of Bugleweed and its hidden ability to ease PMS symptoms. This herb possess properties that can help regulate hormones and support proper thyroid function. As a nervine tonic, it calms anxiety, reduces agitation, and eases muscle tension. The plant is a great source of antioxidants that help scavenge free radicals from the body cells and prevent damage caused by oxidation. Bugleweed also has diuretic and astringent effects, helping to prevent bladder and kidney stones. This magical plant will provide regularity to your cycle, while also supporting health of the urinary system.
FUN FACTS:
Bugleweed is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America and is named after the shape of its leaves, which resemble the bugle instrument.
In traditional herbal medicine, it has been used to support a healthy thyroid function and promote relaxation.
This herb is often found in wetland areas and has captivating purple flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
11. Vervain (Verbena officinalis)
Step into the embrace of Vervain, a herb known for its relaxing and calming effects. This herb assists the female endocrine system, helping to balance hormones and boost mood. It aids dopamine and serotonin production which are necessary for achieving emotional well-being. This herb's natural analgesic properties provide relief from cramps, migraines and menstrual headaches. With antispasmodic benefits, Vervain relaxes abdominal muscles, reduces bloating, and helps gastrointestinal issues. Let the easing effect of this herb take your worries away and bring a breath of fresh air to your PMS journey.
FUN FACTS:
Vervain is a flowering plant that has been used in traditional medicine for its potential calming and digestive properties. It is often used to make herbal teas or tinctures.
In ancient times, it was considered a sacred herb and was used in religious ceremonies and rituals by various cultures, including the ancient Druids and Romans.
This plant is also known by other names, such as "Herb of the Cross" and "Enchanter's Plant," and is associated with love, protection, and warding off evil spirits.
or maybe seeds for planting!
12. White Willow Bark (Salix alba)
Brace yourself for the powers of White Willow Bark, known for its remarkable healing properties. This herb contains compounds, such as Salicin (similar to Aspirin), that are effective pain relievers for reducing inflammation and discomfort. The bark also combats fatigue, eases muscle weakness, and helps with menstrual cramps by balancing prostaglandin levels. The bark of White Willow is antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial -- plus has antipyretic, antiseptic and astringent properties -- making it a necessary aspect of one's home apothecary. Allow the wisdom of the White Willow Bark to guide you towards comfort and well-being.
FUN FACTS:
White Willow has a long history of use by various cultures, including ancient Egyptians and Native Americans, to alleviate pain, reduce fever, and soothe many different ailments.
The active compound Salicin is broken down by the body and then converted to Salicylic Acid, the main ingredient in acne treatment products, thus helping to clear up skin.
Dating all the way back to Hippocrates, people have chewed on White Willow bark to help naturally dull pain and inflammation.
13. St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Last on our list, we conclude with St. John's Wort, the herb of sunshine and joy! Its mood-enhancing properties have been used for centuries to alleviate feelings of sadness or irritability. This herb contains Hypericin and Hyperforin, which are two compounds that help to regulate serotonin. It has anxiolytic properties that ease insomnia, anxiety, and depression. St. John Wort helps combat fatigue, balance hormonal mood swings, and lower blood pressure. In addition to being a nervine tonic, this plant is also a great anti-inflammatory for pelvic pain. Let the famous abilities of this herb complete your journey on emotional well-being during that time of the month!
FUN FACTS:
St. John's Wort is a flowering herb known for its bright yellow flowers and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to alleviate symptoms of mild depression and anxiety.
The name is derived from the fact that the herb blooms around the time of St. John the Baptist's birthday, which falls on June 24th.
This herb is also commonly used in topical preparations, such as oils and salves, to promote the healing of wounds, burns, and skin conditions.
We've just unlocked the extraordinary benefits of 13 herbs that are helpful in alleviating discomforts of PMS. From the soothing Angelica Root to the powerful St. John's Wort, these magical herbs have shown us that nature holds the key to our well-being. So, embrace the enchanting world of herbs, and let their healing powers restore balance and joy to your PMS journey. Remember, the wonders of nature are waiting to be explored, and you have the power to unlock their magic!
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before using herbs to alleviate PMS symptoms, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
