Premenstrual Syndrome(PMS)

[Guest guest]

Premenstrual Syndrome(PMS) JoAnn Guest Aug 11, 2005 18:27 PDT

 

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is the most common disorder experienced by

women during the menstrual years. Up to 90% of women are affected to

some degree. [1] Many woman have just a few mild symptoms, while others

suffer severe discomfort which adversely effects their quality of life.

If the mood swings, irritability and depression are consistently severe,

the disorder is called PMDD( Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), and is

often treated by conventional physicians with fluoxetine hydrochloride (

Prozac® , Serafem®).

 

Although drug therapies may help mask symptoms, it does little to

address causative factors.

 

 

 

Guy Abraham, M.D. was instrumental in classifying the symptoms of PMS

into 4 main categories, and in establishing the role of nutrition in

PMS. [2]

 

 

 

PMS-A (anxiety) mood swings, irritability, crying jags

 

 

 

PMS-H (hyperhydration) bloating, weight gain, water retention, breast

tenderness, constipation

 

 

 

PMS-C (cravings) many symptoms of hypo-glycemia(low blood sugar)-

fatigue,

 

vertigo(dizziness), sweet craving , ‘binging-out’, heart palpitations,

headache, migraines

 

 

 

PMS-D (depression) crying bouts, insomnia, confusion, depression

 

 

 

Acne and other skin problems are also common. The bulk of these symptoms

occur 7-5 days before the period begins, although some woman begin to

experience problems shortly after ovulation, and spend half of each

month in discomfort. Rarely does an individual woman fit exclusively

into one of the categories, but instead may experience an overlapping of

imbalances.

 

 

 

Hormone Imbalance

 

 

In most cases of PMS, there are patterns of hormone imbalance that can

be uncovered through testing.

 

 

 

Estrogen/Progesterone

 

 

Research has consistently shown that an increased ratio of estrogen to

progesterone, with a mild to moderate excess of estrogen and deficiency

of progesterone(estrogen dominance), is a common factor in most of the

women affected [3] [4] PMS symptoms are usually most prevalent during

the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle; the 14 days following

ovulation. Insufficient activity of the corpus luteum can lead to

decreased progesterone levels. If progesterone levels are lower than

10-12 ng/ml, tested 3 weeks after the start of the last menstruation,

corpus luteum insufficiency may well be involved. [5]

 

 

 

Prolactin/ Thyroid/ Adrenals

 

 

Other hormones that are linked to PMS include prolactin , thyroid and

adrenal hormones.

 

 

 

Prolactin is normally produced by the pituitary gland and functions in

milk production in lactating women. However, during periods of stress,

lymphocytes will also produce prolactin. Some woman with PMS have

elevated prolactin levels, [6] while others appear to be over sensitive

to normal levels. Symptoms associated with prolactin include abdominal

tension, edema, weight gain and breast tenderness. [7] Prolactin levels

can be further elevated due to low levels of Magnesium and Vitamin B-6.

These nutrients stimulates the production of dopamine, which, in turn,

limits the release of prolactin. [8] Low Zn levels also increase

prolactin release. [9]

 

 

 

The thyroid may test within normal limits on blood tests and still be

functioning at a low level. Woman can monitor their BBT(basal body

temperature) with a basal thermometer for 1-2 months. If the BBT is

lower than 97.8 degrees on average, compounded with a report of several

symptoms associated with low thyroid function, an underactive thyroid

may be suspect. Symptoms of an underactive thyroid include cold hands

and feet, thinning hair, dry skin, slightly elevated cholesterol, mild

anemia and constipation. Low thyroid function, even at a subclinical

level can be a factor in PMS. [10]

 

 

 

 

 

The adrenal hormones, aldosterone and cortisol, are often slightly

elevated in PMS, often due to chronic stress. New research is uncovering

that not only the level of these hormones, but the level of response to

them can vary in women with histories of reproductive endocrine-related

mood disorders. Many women with PMS display abnormal responses, such as

water retention and depression, to normal levels of these hormones. [11]

 

 

 

 

Pharmacies can offer saliva test kits that can be used by women to

determine hormone levels.

 

 

 

 

 

Role of the Liver

 

 

The liver is involved in a great many metabolic processes in the body,

including breaking down excess estrogens. If the liver is working well,

it will break down aggressive estrogen into less harmful varieties,

leading to fewer PMS symptoms. As long ago as the 1940’s it was shown

that the liver cannot efficiently break down excess estrogen without the

presence of sufficient B vitamins. [12] The liver can also be challenged

by the presence of a wide array of toxins, such as PBBs (polybrominated

biphenyls), [13] that lead to increased demands on its ability to

efficiently breakdown excess estrogen. The inability of the liver to

properly detoxify estrogen leads to the overriding factor observed in

PMS- Estrogen Dominance.

 

 

 

Estrogen Dominance

 

 

There are many causes of estrogen dominance. In rare cases it can be

caused by a genetic abnormality. However, it usually is influenced by

lifestyle choices, which women DO have control over. One of the main

reasons women have too much estrogen is due to estrogens that are coming

into their bodies from inorganic food and environmental toxins. These

are called xenoestrogens.

 

 

 

Xenoestrogens- a common cause of Estrogen Dominance

 

Xenoestrogens are environmental chemicals with estrogen-like activity

found throughout the environment, as by-products of pesticides,

herbicides and the synthetic hormones routinely fed to animals, which is

stored in their fat and transferred to people who eat them. [14] They

also come from petrochemicals found in the coating inside canned food,

[15]

 

and other plastics; even baby bottles! Once inside the body,

xenoestrogens can play havoc with the “normal” mechanisms of the

reproductive cycle, leading to PMS, premature development of both girls

and boys [16] , and serious illness such as cancer. [17] Investigations

into the binding interaction for human plasma sex-hormone binding

globulin (hSHBG) have revealed that xenoestrogens can displace normal

estrogen from hSHBG binding sites and disrupt hormone balance. [18]

 

 

 

Natural Management of PMS

PMS is not caused by one single agent, but instead must be viewed as a

multifactorial imbalance that requires a complete program to lesson the

input of a number of causative factors. The pharmacist can act as a

health counselor for PMS, and move beyond the restrictive role of

dispensing drugs. [19] The outline below suggests an integration of

therapeutic interventions in order of importance.

 

 

 

Diet

 

 

PMS is one health condition that conventional medicine suggests has

dietary causes. Some of the well known culprits include too much

caffeine, sugar, artificial sweeteners, processed foods and hydrogenated

fats- in essence the Standard American Diet(SAD).

 

 

 

One well known symptom of PMS is carbohydrate craving. Research suggests

that this may be an attempt by the woman to regulate mood changes that

accompany PMS. In one study, consumption of a carbohydrate-rich,

protein-poor evening meal during the late luteal phase of the menstrual

cycle improved depression, tension, anger, confusion, sadness, fatigue,

alertness, and calmness among patients with premenstrual syndrome.

Because synthesis of brain serotonin, which is known to be involved in

mood and appetite, increases after carbohydrate intake, premenstrual

syndrome subjects may over consume carbohydrates in an attempt to

improve their dysphoric mood state. [20]

 

 

 

A vegetarian based diet, high in organic dark, green leafy vegetables,

whole grains and a small amount(if any) of free range antibiotic and

hormone free animal products can substantially decrease or eliminate

most symptoms associated with PMS. This dietary regimen reduces intake

of xenoestrogens. Results of a recent study found “ A low-fat vegetarian

diet was associated with increased serum sex-hormone binding globulin

concentration and reductions in body weight, dysmenorrhea duration and

intensity, and premenstrual symptom duration. The symptom effects might

be mediated by dietary influences on estrogen activity...” [21] Woman

should be encouraged to maintain the diet for a long period of time,

since a three to four month ‘waiting period’ may be needed before the

positive effects of dietary change take effect. This is a long term,

lifetime commitment that will enhance overall health and well being as

well as provide relief from PMS symptoms.

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

The effect of exercise on PMS symptoms has been the focus of several

studies, which indicate that exercise is successful in the diminution of

all PMS symptoms. Moreover, it appears that these benefits are can be at

obtained even with low levels of exercise intensity. [22] Pharmacists

can make exercise videos available to their clients, and suggest them as

part of an overall health and wellness approach to the alleviation of

PMS.

 

 

 

 

 

Stress Reduction

 

 

PMS symptoms are related to the way a woman deals with stress. Stress

plays a role in regulating adrenal hormones, as well as

neurotransmitters involved with maintaining mental wellness. Stress

reduction techniques such as meditation, prayer, yoga and cognitive

behavior therapy can help to ameliorate anxiety, depression, negative

thoughts, and physical changes associated with PMS. [23]

 

 

 

Liver Detoxification

 

 

The first intervention, after addressing the lifestyle issues of diet,

exercise and stress reduction, is to work on detoxification of the

liver. Several herbs are particularly useful in supporting the liver.

These include Dandelion, Milk Thistle and Burdock Root.

 

 

 

Dandelion(Taraxacum Officinale)

 

 

 

Almost everyone can recognize a dandelion plant, used as food and

medicine by cultures internationally. The inner strength of this plant

is reflected by the amount of time, energy and money spent trying to

eradicate it from suburban lawns! Dandelion is a storehouse of

nutrients, including the following chemical constituents: caffeic acid,

 

p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, chlorogenic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic

acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid and other acids, taraxacin(bitter),

terpenoids , flavonoids, vitamin A (14,000 IU/100 g leaf- one of the

greens highest in Vit A), carotenoids, choline, mucilage, inulin,

pectin, phytosterols, potassium.

 

 

 

Dandelion supports the liver, and increases its ability to break down

estrogen.

 

 

 

Dandelion has long been used in herbal medicine for its choleretic and

diuretic properties. When tested against the pharmaceutical diuretic,

Lasix, dandelion (2 g/kg) exhibited a comparable diuretic effect,

without the potentially adverse side effects of Lasix, such as potassium

depletion. [24] Although the mechanism of action of dandelion is not

fully understood, dandelion extract was found to diminish enzymatically

induced-lipid peroxidation as well as reducing cytochrome c in a

concentration dependent manner. [25]

 

 

 

Dandelion is considered safe. However, due to the abundance of

taraxasterol choline, a substance that hastens the movement of bile, it

should be avoided in high quantities in persons with bile duct

obstructions. [26]

 

 

 

Dosage: 3 cups of Dandelion Tea/day

 

Tincture/Extract- 20 ml 3X/day

 

500mg caps- 2 caps 2X/day

 

 

 

Interactions: None reported for Taraxacum Officinale. However, Chinese

dandelion

 

(Taraxacum mongolicum) interferes with absorption of quinolone

antibiotics.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Burdock(Arctium lappa)

 

 

 

Burdock is found throughout the temperate zones around the world. The

seed stalk produces the characteristic ‘burrs’, which one

entrepreneurial gentleman used to develop the idea for ‘velcro’!

 

 

 

Burdock is a slow acting nutritional tonic that builds strength over

time. It is highly nutritious, and contains minerals such as magnesium,

calcium, potassium, and silica. Other chemical constituents include:

Sesquiterpene lactones; trideca-1,11-dien-3,5,7,9-tetrain; caffeic acid

derivatives (including chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid); 40% to

50% inulin , mucilages; volatile oils (phenylacetaldehyde, benzaldehyde,

2-alkyl-3-methoxy-pyrazines); phytosterols, tannins.

 

Burdock is a traditional Alterative or ‘blood cleanser’ in herbal

medicine. In it is considered a ‘cooling’ herb, useful

for ‘hot’ conditions, such as hot flashes, or swollen joints. It can

help with frequent urinary tract infections, and has diuretic

properties. Burdock root is listed as an official medicine in the

Eclectic Materia Medica and the U.S. Pharmacopoeia..

 

 

 

Burdock extract has a high level of antioxidant activity, and produces a

significant inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation in the liver. [27]

Burdock also has shown specific hepatoprotective effects from

acetaminophen induced liver damage. [28]

 

 

 

 

 

According to the German Commission E, there are no known risks

associated with the use of burdock. It is not recommended for use during

pregnancy.

 

 

 

 

 

Dosage: fresh root- 6 inches of root per day

 

Extract-20 drops 3X/day

 

Capsules- 2, 500 caps 3X/day

 

 

 

Interactions: None reported

 

 

 

 

 

Milk Thistle( Silybum marianum)

 

Milk thistle grows in the wild throughout Europe and North America. It

has large purple flowers surrounded by a sharp array of thorns, hence

the name ‘thistle’. Milk thistle is an excellent galactogogue (increases

lactation). [29] The ripe seeds(actually tiny fruits-kenguil seeds) are

gathered in late fall to extract the highly medicinal components. The

fruit contains 1.5%-3% silymarin, the most active known constituent,

along with flavonolignans, tyramine, histamine, essential oils, lipids,

alkaloids, saponins, mucilages, flavonoids, and vitamins C, E, and K.

 

Milk thistle is used first and foremost for its protective and

regenerative effect on the liver. In one study which examined the effect

of silibinin on phase II liver enzymes, oral administration at doses of

100 and 200 mg/kg/day(in mice) showed a significant increase in

glutathione, S-transferase and quinone reductase activities in liver,

lung, stomach, skin and small bowel in a dose- and time-dependent

manner. [30] Scientific studies have shown that Milk thistle has at

least two distinct actions on liver cells; membrane stabilization, [31]

and increasing ribosomal proteins that helps the liver regenerate new

cells. [32] Milk Thistle is a useful herb to help in all situations

where liver detoxification is indicated. In relation to women’s health

issues, it is especially helpful for all imbalances linked to excessive

estrogen, including PMS, cystic breasts, fibroids, endometriosis and

infertility. It is also useful for alcohol, drug or chemically induced

liver damage, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and acetominophen toxicity

[33] Silymarin inhibits 5-lipoxygenase which enhances its

anti-inflammatory effects. [34] Milk’s thistle exhibits anti-tumor

activity, which may be due to its inhibition of promoter-induced edema ,

hyperplasia and a reduction in the proliferation index. [35]

 

 

 

 

Dosage: Tea: steep one TBS. Finely ground seeds(fruit) and leaf powder

in one cup

 

hot water.

 

Tincture/Extract- 20 drops 2X/day

 

Capsules- 200 mg 3X/day

 

Milk thistle is often standardized to 75-80% silymarin.

 

 

 

Interactions: Milk thistle has no known toxic effects. Numerous studies

have shown that it has protective effects on liver and kidneys when used

along with prescription medications including acetaminophen,

butyrophenones, and ifosfamide

 

cyclosporine. [36] However, due to its marked effect on the liver, there

may be a potential for silymarin to influence hepatic metabolism of

certain coadministered drugs. [37]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If the lifestyle modifications and liver cleansing herbs discussed above

are instituted, most women will have an amelioration of most, if not

all, PMS symptoms, both in quantity and intensity. [38] However, if

further intervention is required, there are several nutritional

supplements and botanical remedies that can be helpful for PMS.

 

 

 

 

 

Nutritional Supplementation

 

 

Calcium

 

 

Calcium comprises more of the adult body than any other

mineral(approximately 2%), and is critical to a myriad of metabolic

functions, such as the development and maintenance of bones and teeth,

control of the heartbeat and blood pressure, transmission of nerve

impulses, muscles contraction and relaxation, maintaining membrane

integrity, and enzyme activation. Estrogen, which regulates calcium

metabolism and intestinal calcium absorption, fluctuates throughout the

menstrual cycle, which may lead to a disregulation of calcium

homeostasis. In fact, there is a marked similarity in the overall

symptoms of PMS and low calcium levels (hypocalcemia). Calcium

supplementation has been tested in randomized, placebo controlled,

double blind studies, and was found to result in a major reduction in

overall symptoms associated with PMS. [39]

 

Although calcium supplementation can help PMS, dairy products often

actually make PMS worse. This may be due to a sensitivity of some

individuals to dairy products, or because the high protein content in

milk, along with calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, may decrease

magnesium absorption.

 

Calcium supplements vary in their bioavailability. When recommending

Calcium supplements, be aware that dolomite can have high lead levels,

calcium carbonate requires a low pH to solubilize, and often causes

gastrointestinal side effects, [40] and bone sourced Calcium may cause

consumer concern due to increased awareness of Mad Cow Disease. Calcium

citrate is absorbed more easily than calcium carbonate and is relatively

inexpensive. [41] Food consumption surveys conducted in the USA have

indicated calcium intake for women are often below the US recommended

daily allowance (1200 mg/day). “ Evidence to date indicates that women

with luteal phase symptomatology have an underlying calcium

dysregulation with a secondary hyperparathyroidism and vitamin D

deficiency. This strongly suggests that PMS represents the clinical

manifestation of a calcium deficiency state that is unmasked following

the rise of ovarian steroid hormone concentrations during the menstrual

cycle.” [42]

 

 

 

Dosage: 1200-1500 mg/day

 

 

 

Magnesium

Magnesium is an important mineral that helps form bones, relax muscle

spasms, activate cellular enzymes, and regulate nerve and muscle

function(including the heart) and acid-alkaline balance. It is often

referred to as the " anti-stress " mineral. Deficiency of magnesium is

known to cause many symptoms usually associated with PMS, such as

irritability, depression, confusion and muscle aches. However,

determining if a woman is deficient in magnesium can be a challenge.

Many sources of food that are thought to contain magnesium according to

old nutrient charts (grains, legumes, vegetables, nuts and seeds), are

actually low due to low levels in the soil and depletion due to

processing and cooking. Measuring magnesium levels in the blood plasma

will often fail to demonstrate low levels, although RBC magnesium levels

have been shown to be low in PMS sufferers. [43] Therefore, woman who

want to have a true picture of their magnesium levels should be

encouraged to have a RBC magnesium level done. Estrogen enhances the

utilization of magnesium. However, if estrogen levels are high, which is

often the case with PMS, and magnesium intake is less then optimal,

estrogen-induced shifts of magnesium can be deleterious, leading to

muscle spasms, migraine, and other PMS disorders. [44] In one study

serum levels of magnesium were inversely related to the serum level of

estrogen. [45]

 

Magnesium supplementation can help alleviate many measurable parameters

of PMS, including cramps, irritability, fatigue, depression and water

retention. [46] [47] Magnesium citrate, gluconate, and lactate are

better absorbed than magnesium oxide. Magnesium glycinate is a well

absorbed form, with minimum laxative effects.

 

 

 

Dosage: 300mg-400mg/day. Natural health care practitioners often

recommend higher doses until symptoms are alleviated. Doses should be

spread out throughout the day to avoid laxative effects. Supplementation

with Vitamin B-6, along with magnesium, can help to increase cellular

uptake of magnesium. [48]

 

 

 

Vitamin B-6(Pyridoxine)

 

Vitamin B-6 naturally occurs in three active forms: pyridoxine (PNP),

pyridoxamine (PMP) and pyridoxal (PLP). Ninety percent of vitamin B6 is

in the latter form. Vitamin B-6 is a coenzyme intimately involved with

many vital processes such as the formation of amino acids, hormones, and

neurotransmitters including serotonin and dopamine involved in mood

regulation. Several studies show that supplementing with this

nutrient(50 mg/day) alleviates PMS symptoms, especially those related to

mood. [49] [50] However, other studies contradict this finding, and

conclude that Vitamin B-6 is not a proven treatment for women with PMS,

[51] and that studies on B-6 have been poorly done. [52] Phosphorylation

of Vitamin B-6 into its active form(pyridoxal-5-phosphate) takes place

in the liver. Inefficient liver function, often present in women with

PMS, can lead to conversion difficulties.Vitamin B-6 is found in many

foods, including fish, poultry, eggs, sunflower seeds, soybeans,

lentils, avocados, kale and bananas.

 

Dosage: The RDI ranges from 1.3-2.0 mg/day, but a useful therapeutic

dose is 25-50mg/day. Sufficient magnesium is required for utilization of

B-6.

 

Cautions: Symptoms of sensory neuropathy have been noted due to overdose

of B-6 at levels as low as 200mg/day. [53]

 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and free

radical scavenger in cell membranes. It occurs in plant food sources,

but cooking, processing and freezing destroys a high percentage of

Vitamin E in foods. Supplementation with 400 IU daily has been shown to

be advantages for health by favorably influencing lipid profiles,

antioxidant status, [54] and heart health. [55] Vitamin E has also been

found to help reduce many symptoms associated with PMS. [56]

 

Dosage: RDA is 12 IU to 16 IU daily, but studies suggest 400 IU as a

beneficial therapeutic dose. D-alpha tocopherol, the natural form, is

often preferred over the synthetic form (dl-alpha tocopherol). Some

companies offer " mixed tocopherols” with d-beta, d-gamma, d-delta

tocopherols and various tocotrienols, the way vitamin E occurs naturally

in food. Dry Vitamin E (succinate) is water soluble and is the best form

for those who have fat absorption problems.

 

Multi-Vitamin Mineral Supplement

 

As we discussed above, individual nutrients have been found to directly

influence PMS. Several studies have noted a marked improvement following

the use of a Multi-Vitamin Mineral Supplement which contains the

individual nutrients discussed along with a balanced blend of other

vitamins and minerals. [57] The preferred supplement must contain

sufficient quantities of Mg (400mg), Vitamin B-6(50mg) and Vitamin

E(400IU) in the d-alpha form.

 

Omega 3 Oils

 

Research results on the efficacy of the use of supplemental oils for PMS

vary in outcome. While fish oil has several positive outcome studies,

[58] the popular use of Primrose oil for PMS is not well supported by

study results. [59] Since many women with PMS do not consume a

sufficient amount of Omega 3 fatty acids, it is prudent to supplement

with EPH-DHA, fish oils, or flaxseed oil.

 

Dosage: 2000mg /day

 

 

Botanical Remedies

 

We will discuss three herbs that are enjoying popularity for PMS: Black

Cohosh, Dong quai, and Chaste Berry.

 

 

 

Black Cohosh(Cimicifuga racemosa)

 

 

The Black Cohosh plant is a perennial bush in the buttercup family that

can grow up to 9 feet high. It is found in woodlands throughout the

Northeast. The root(rhizome) is used medicinally.

 

The plant has several common names, which reflect the many uses that

have been attributed to it, including snakeroot, bugbane, rattleweed and

squawroot. ‘Cohosh” is a Native American Algonquin word which refers to

the ‘rough’ surface of the rhizomes. ‘Snakeroot’ reflects its use as a

snakebite remedy. ‘Bugbane’ comes from the ability of the plant’s odor

to repel insects. In Europe the flowers were stuffed into pillows for

this purpose. When the dry seeds found on the plants in late fall are

blown by the wind, they rattle, thus ‘rattleweed’. Several native

cultures considered ‘rattling’ an important sound used for sacred

ceremony. Black Cohosh was also called ‘Squawroot’ because it was

commonly used by Native Americans to assist in all manner of women’s

ailments, including scanty, heavy, painful and irregular menstrual flow,

inability to conceive, and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and

vaginal dryness.

 

Black Cohosh root extract was regularly recommended by the Eclectic

Physicians in the mid 1800’s for all female complaints, and is among an

ever growing group of herbs where modern scientific analysis reveals the

chemical constituents that help to explain the long-time observations of

herbalists throughout history. The extract contains glycosides and

isoflavones, which may impart an estrogenic effect. One specific

isoflavone, formononetin, was shown to be able to bind to estrogen

receptor sites in vitro. One study demonstrated that Black Cohosh

measurably lowered luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in menopausal women.

[60] Although most current studies focus on the usefulness of Black

Cohosh for menopausal complaints, Black cohosh has been approved by the

German Commission E for the treatment of PMS.

 

 

 

Dosage: tea made from dried root- 3-4 cups/day (1 cup water to 1/2 tsp

dried root)

 

Capsules- 40 mg 2X/ day

 

Extracts- 2-4 ml/day

 

 

 

Black Cohosh may be standardized to 1 mg deoxyactin/20 mg extract, or

 

2.5% triterpene glycosides

 

 

 

 

 

Cautions: discontinue use during pregnancy.

 

Headaches, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbance have been reported

after

 

taking large amounts ( over 3 grams/day)

 

 

 

Interactions: None reported.

 

 

 

 

 

Dong Quai(Angelica sinensis)

Dong quai is the medicinal root of a species of the Angelica plant

family. The plant has the characteristic umbrella shaped flower tops of

the Umbelliferae family. The medicinal part is the root, yellow to brown

on the outside and white on the inside. Dong quai has been used

medicinally in China, especially in formulas for women, for thousand of

years. The name “ Dong quai” translates to “proper order”; it balances

the entire female system, bringing things back into ‘proper order’.

 

 

 

Scientific research performed on extracts of Dong quai supports many of

the ancient folkloric uses. Pharmacological effects include analgesic

activity along with the ability to relax smooth muscle and tonify the

uterus. [61] Dong quai can help to reduce high blood pressure, [62] ,

ease asthma and relax the coronary arteries. [63] Dong quai contains

ferulic acid, which acts as an anticoagulant on blood cells, and

ligustilide, which may explain its antispasmotic effect that aids

menstrual cramps, headaches, and acts to tonify the uterus. Dong quai

contains Vit A and E, folic acid, B-12, various essential oils and

bioflavonoids. It relieves PMS symptoms such as bloating, mood swings,

muscle aches and menstrual cramps and increases energy and vitality.

 

 

 

Dosage:

 

In Chinese medicine it is used as a dried root added to nutritious

soups.

 

Root: 10 grams added to soup

 

Capsules: up to six 500 to 600 mg per day

 

Tincture/Extract: 1-2 ml 3 times per day

 

Cautions: do not use in pregnancy, May cause heavy bleeding. May cause

photosensitivity or skin rash.

 

Interactions:

 

Warfarin and other anticoagulants- may potentiate both therapeutic and

adverse effects

 

Hormone therapies- may compete for estrogen receptor sites

 

 

 

Chaste Tree Berry( Agnus castus, Vitex)

 

 

 

The Chaste Berry Tree is indigenous to the Mediterranean area. It is an

attractive bush with finger-like leaves and thin violet, blue or pink

flowers. The fruit produced by this tree is a dark brown to black berry,

about the size of a peppercorn, with a spicy pepper flavor.

 

The Chaste Berry has a long history of use as an herbal medicinal. It

was first mentioned in the 4th century BC by Hippocrates, and was

indicated in The King’s American Dispensary as a remedy for female

problems. Its common name reflects the belief that eating the fruit

decreases sex drive, and allows for increased chastity. . During ancient

Greek and Roman times, the Priestess of the Temple would eat the berries

to lessen the libido. Another name for the plant, Monk’s Pepper, came

from the use by medieval monks towards a similar goal.

 

Chaste Tree Berry is the herb with the best scientific documentation for

its role in being specifically useful for PMS. [64] Chaste Berry effects

the pituitary gland, by regulating the release of prolactin. [65]

Problems associated with high prolactin levels, or hypersensitivity to

normal levels, include PMS, infertility and abnormal bleeding. Chaste

Berry has been the subject of placebo controlled double blind studies,

which have uncovered some of the specific mechanisms of action, such as

binding to opiod receptors. [66] It has proven to be especially useful

if irregularities are due to a deficiency in the formation of the corpus

luteum. Chaste berry increases the production of lutenizing hormone(LH),

and decreases follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH). This enhances the ratio

of progesterone to estrogen. Chaste Berries may need to be used for

several months to elicit the desired effect. Please note that this

herbal remedy is often called Agnus Castus or Vitex- its all the same

herb.

 

 

 

 

 

Dosage: tea- 1 cup of boiled water poured over 1 tsp of fresh or dried

berries. Steep

 

for 10 minutes. Drink 1-2 cups per day.

 

Extract- 10-40 drops 2X/day

 

Capsules- 1 cap(40 mg) 1X/ day

 

Cautions: Do not use during pregnancy. If using Chaste Berry to enhance

fertility, discontinue use once conception has occurred. Skin rashes,

and increased menstrual flow have been reported in a small number of

users.

 

Interactions: Do not use along with birth control pills or other

prescription hormone therapies due to possible competition for binding

sites. It may weaken the effect of dopamine- receptor antagonists.

 

 

 

 

 

--

 

 

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