Balance PMS Naturally with Turmeric Compounds

• Types of PMS
• Conventional Treatments
• How Can Turmeric Help?

Premenstrual syndrome is a recognized medical disorder defined by a set of symptoms that recur 7-14 days before the first day of menstruation. The most common symptoms can include: ^(x.37)

• Acne.
• Anxiety.
• Appetite changes; cravings.
• Back pain; painful joints; breast soreness; headache.
• Bloating; water retention.
• Bowel movement disturbances (such as diarrhea or constipation).
• Clumsiness; dizziness.
• Insomnia; fatigue.
• Mood swings; lethargy; feelings of insecurity; depression; nervousness; withdrawal; loss of libido; irritability.

Types of PMS

Although the causes of PMS are not absolute, researchers suggest that hormonal and brain chemical changes or imbalances play a role in PMS. These are related to various hormones involved with the menstrual cycle. For the sake of treatment purposes, guidelines loosely divide and group PMS symptoms and related hormones into 4 subtypes: ^(x.7, 37)

Conventional PMS Treatments

Conventional therapies are prescribed to treat symptoms or regulate hormones: ^(x.7)

• Anti-inflammatory pain medication (e.g., ibuprofen).
• Diuretics to reduce water retention.
• Anti-depressants.
• Anti-anxiety medications.
• Birth control pills.
• Hormonal suppressants.

However, possible side effects of these drugs can actually include other PMS symptoms. For example, anti-anxiety and antidepressant drugs can sometimes cause headaches and nervousness, and hormonal suppressants can cause acne. ^(x.7)

How Can Turmeric Help?

Turmeric has beneficial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects properties. Research and integrative medicine experts suggest that nutrients in turmeric could help relieve PMS symptoms in a number of gentle, hormone-balancing ways: ^(x.7)