There’s a lot more to treating premenstrual mood symptoms than just the pill or SSRI antidepressants. Alternative strategies for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) include iodine, magnesium, vitamin B6, vitex (chaste tree), progesterone, and a natural antihistamine approach.
period problems
Natural and nutritional treatment for period problems like PCOS, period pain, and endometriosis.
Ovulation Is the Main Event of the Menstrual Cycle
A menstrual cycle is, by definition, an ovulatory cycle in which ovulation is the main event and progesterone is made. Any other kind of bleed is either an anovulatory bleed or a pill bleed—neither of which is a real menstrual cycle.
Furthermore, an ovulatory cycle is the only way to make progesterone, which is important for general health and not just for making a baby.
Is It Normal Period Pain or Endometriosis?
Normal period pain or dysmenorrhea should be mild and respond to simple treatments like ibuprofen, zinc, or a dairy-free diet.
If period pain does not respond to simple treatments, it could be something more serious such as endometriosis or adenomyosis.
Debilitating period pain is never normal.
The Dos and Don’ts of Vitex for Period Problems
Vitex (also called chaste tree or chasteberry) is a herbal medicine prepared from the berries of the Mediterranean tree Vitex agnus-castus. In ancient times, it was used to suppress the libido of monks, hence the name. Fortunately, it does not have that effect on women.
Vitex is effective medicine for breast pain, irregular periods, premenstrual mood symptoms, and some types of acne.