There is no one single cure for PMS and if there were, whoever invented it would be a millionaire!  It’s estimated that 30-40% of women experience PMS.  Other figures say that 80% of women experience PMS at some time or another.  Every woman is different, as are her symptoms and the reasons why she has them.  Although you may have different symptoms, don’t treat them separately, but work on your overall lifestyle and well-being.  Therefore, eat well to get lots of vitamins and minerals, get enough sleep, reduce stress, get regular exercise, pursue happiness and use herbs that have been shown to help with PMS.

To see how you can improve your diet, check out the article from last Dec 12th.  Keep your insulin levels even (taking the pressure off your hormone system) by balancing your blood sugar.  Therefore, along with the tips from Dec 12th, eat carbohydrates with proteins (e.g. nuts/seeds with porridge, an apple with a few almonds, fish with vegetables), eat small regular meals, always eat breakfast, and don’t eat too much dried fruit.  If your diet is really good, you may need temporary support through nutritional supplements or herbs.  Although your local health food store can give you advise, I’ve a few suggestions:

Magnesium is helpful for tender and swollen breasts, anxiety, tension, stress, PMS associated migraines or other emotional states.
Vitamin B6 helps 70% of PMS sufferers.  Helpful for PMS associated depression.
Vitamin E helpful for breast symptoms, mood swings and irritability.
Zinc supports vitamin B6 use in the body.
Evening Primrose Oil helps 60% of sufferers.  Particularly helpful when main symptom is breast tenderness.  It may take 3 months to have an affect.
Agnus Castus can be extremely helpful for heavy frequent periods, breast tenderness, fluid retention and irritability.
Black Cohosh was used by the Native North Americans.  It has a calming effect and may be helpful where main symptoms are anxiety, tension, depression or PMS associated headaches.
Scullcap/ Valerian/ Passiflora all have a tranquillising effect.  Helpful to relieve tension, irritability, anxiety, depression and insomnia.
Dandelion is a diuretic, great if water retention is main symptom.  Also excellent for helping detox the liver.
Butterbur (Petasites) has been shown to be fantastic for pain relief from cramps etc.

NB.  If you are taking any medication (including the contraceptive pill), please consult your doctor before taking any vitamins, minerals or herbs.