Premenstrual Syndrome
PMS causes somatic, neurological, and psychological symptoms in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, with the pooled prevalence estimated at 47.8% globally (Frey et al., 2020). Hardy and Hunter (2021) noted that up to 90% of women in their studies reported at least one PMS symptom, and of these, 40% experienced moderate to severe symptoms. PMS symptoms include anxiety, irritability, mastalgia, water retention, cravings, headaches, insomnia and bloating (Rapkin & Akopians, 2012). With significant numbers of the female population experiencing PMS, evaluating the evidence for herbal medicine alternatives in clinical application requires further investigation. Currently, the PMS guidelines list pharmacological and non-drug therapy interventions as first-line treatments (TGA, 2023). Pharmacological interventions include the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP), Spironolactone and SSRIs/SNRIs (TGA, 2023). Non-drug treatment includes cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), exercise, relaxation techniques and lifestyle modification (TGA, 2023).
Symptoms can begin as early as a females first menarche with highest severity occurring between ages 20-35 and dissipating towards menopause (Heinemann et al., 2011). For some patients, these symptoms can be debilitating particularly regarding anxiety, irritability and fatigue (Rapkin, & Winer, 2009). With almost half of the pooled female population globally experiencing PMS regularly up to 10 days before menses begin, (Hantsoo et al., 2022), critically evaluating and seriously considering the addition of natural, alternative treatments for PMS into the current clinical guidelines in Australia is warranted based on current literature and overwhelming scientific evidence (Hawksworth et al, 2024).
Naturopaths have been treating PMS for decades. Some natural alternative treatments include evening primrose oil, B6, Magnesium, St Johns Wort and most importantly CHASTETREE berry also known as Vitex agnus-castus. Read my next blog post for details on this amazing herb for treating PMS.
