Herbs alleviate symptoms of PMS, NEW STRAITS TIMES-MANAGEMENT TIMES

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RECENT studies have shown the effectiveness of chaste tree (also known as Vitex) in treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In the surveys, physicians graded chaste tree extracts as very good in the treatment of PMS. More than 1500 women participated in the studies-of this number, 1/3 experienced complete relief from the symptoms while another 57% reported significant improvement.

Researchers have shown that taking chaste tree over a period of several months help normalie hormone levels to alleviate the symptoms of PMS. A separate study has found that acne, associated with PMS, is also reduced using chaste tree.

Chaste tree imitates the action of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone with its phytohormonal actions. Researchers found that chaste tree preparations act on the pituitary gland and balance the ovarian hormones by increasing the level of progesterone relative to oestrogen.

This hormonal balancing act helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and thus alleviate PMS symptoms. Chaste tree also reduces abnormally high levels of prolactin which can aggravate PMS symptoms.

A recent German study found chaste tree to be more effective than Vitamin B6 for PMS. The double-blind placebo-controlled clinical study involved 175 women who, over the course of 3 menstrual cycles, took either chaste tree together with a placebo or Vitamin B6 supplements.

The researchers reported that while both treatments were effective, patients taking chaste tree had greater relief of many PMS symptoms including abdominal bloating, breast tenderness and irritability. Overall, 77 per cent of women taking chaste tree experienced improvements compared to 61 per cent of those taking Vitamin B6. While 80 per cent of the participating doctors felt that both treatments provide ``adequate''

effectiveness, 25 per cent rated treatment with chaste tree as excellent, compared to only 12 per cent with Vitamin B6.

PMS affects an estimated 30-50 per cent of women in their childbearing years. It is a monthly episode of unpleasant symptoms that occurs approximately two weeks before the menstrual period begins.

Although researchers are not entirely certain what causes PMS, they believe that many of the problems are related to cyclic fluctuations in hormone levels and chaste tree may counteract this by gently regulating hormone levels.

Another herb useful for relieving PMS symptoms is wild yam.

The medicinal properties of wild yam that contains a compound called diosgenin, a precursor of progesterone, have been known for ages.

Herbalists find it helpful in reducing water retention associated with PMS. Its anti-spasmodic properties help relax muscles and alleviate cramps due to PMS. Nevertheless, a good supplement for PMS should contain a combination of these herbs and other herbs such as dong quai and St.

John's wort for maximum benefits.

　　From Healthy.net