Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus). In several clinical studies Chasteberry reduced some symptoms, especially breast pain or tenderness, edema, constipation, irritability, depressed mood, anger, and headache.
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis). Dong quai (Angelica sinensis), also known as Chinese Angelica, has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese medicine. It remains one of the most popular plants in Chinese medicine, and is used primarily for health conditions in women. Dong quai has been called “female ginseng,” based on its use for gynecological disorders (such as painful menstruation or pelvic pain), recovery from childbirth or illness, and fatigue/low vitality. It is thought to be more effective in with black cohosh.
Maca (Lepidium meyenii). For hundreds of years maca was used by native Peruvians to enhance fertility. Women use maca for female hormone imbalance, menstrual problems, and symptoms of menopause. Maca is also used for weak bones (osteoporosis), depression, stomach cancer, leukemia, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, erectile dysfunction (ED), to arouse sexual desire, and to boost the immune system. It has been found to be effective for PMS.
Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa). Though mostly known for its relief widely of menopausal symptoms, black cohosh is wonderful herb for PMS, especially when it comes to treating rritability and sleep disturbances.
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). Lemon balm has been used for centuries for its calming effects and helps with PMS-related anxiety and insomnia.
Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa). Wild yam was traditionally used for intestinal problems as well as labor pains and menstrual issues. There is still debate about whether wild yam can affect our sex hormones, but we’ve found it extremely helpful for our patients who have high estrogen levels, and see consistent helpful results.
Burdock. Burdock is known for its anti-inflammatory effect, but because of its alterative action, and because of the small amount of plant steroids it contains, burdock can help improve the liver’s ability to metabolize hormones such as estrogen and thereby improve symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance. Therefore it is very helpful in treating PMS.
St. John’s wort. St. John’s wort has been used successfully to treat mild depression and the moodiness that sometimes accompanies PMS. But careful as it can interfere with the birth control pills and make them less effective. So be sure to have a discussion you’re your healthcare practitioner