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PMS - A Traditional Chinese Medicine Approach

Aku Energija

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of symptoms that many women get about a week or two before their period. Did you know that Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) could help you treat those symptoms?

Most women, over 90%, say they get some premenstrual symptoms, such as bloating, headaches, and moodiness.[1] For some women, these symptoms may be so severe that they miss work or school, but other women are not bothered by milder symptoms. On average, women in their 30s are most likely to have PMS.[2]

Before menstruation, estrogen levels in the body are reduced, this change in hormones in most cases leads to PMS. PMS can affect your body physically as well as mentally such as showing symptoms such as:

How Is Liver Linked With PMS according to TCM?

Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) analyze the flow of energy or qi, and Blood in each patient as a means of identifying imbalances that are to blame for their diseases or medical conditions. Cramping associated with the menstrual cycle or menopause is often due to the stagnation of qi. Deficiency of either qi or Blood in certain meridians can lead to pain, as can a buildup of internal Heat or Cold. [Read more: Qi deficiency: What is it and how do you manage it?]

The Liver Qi is central to the overall flow of energy through our bodies. When this qi becomes blocked, Blood pools in the uterus, increasing the discomfort of monthly periods. Signs of this blockage include bloating, spotting, and irritability. According to TCM, when the Liver Qi becomes stagnant, it can make menstrual flow heavy and lead to thirst, constipation, and angry mood swings. If the qi stagnation turns to Blood stagnation, pain can become more intense and localized.

Evidence for Acupuncture as PMS Treatment

Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been using acupuncture for thousands of years to address all types of physical and mental ailments. Based on a system of 12 meridians, acupuncturists use needles to stimulate different points along the meridians in order to address physical and emotional problems and provide relief.

It is also believed that acupuncture provides relief by prompting the body’s natural healing mechanisms and by treating the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. One specific benefit seems to be its ability to reduce inflammation, which could eliminate the same symptoms targeted by NSAIDs. [Read more: Your Body as a Garden]

Studies show that acupuncture also works on the mind, which can help to alleviate the mood swings associated with PMS. A recent review article from Armour and colleagues (2018) [3] looked at five studies that used acupuncture in the treatment of PMS. They observed no adverse side effects from the treatment and found that acupuncture seemed to reduce both the physical and mood-related symptoms associated with PMS.

Chinese Herbal Remedies For PMS

There are many herbal ingredients that can help ease PMS symptoms and provide long-term relief. Please note that herbs should be prescribed by a professional practitioner.

  • Chai Hu (Bupleurum): is a famous herbal ingredient that can be incorporated into your day-to-day routine. It is also found in most Chinese herbal formulas. It works to smoothen Liver Qi, and promote positive thinking.

  • Dang Shen (Codonopsis): is a great ingredient which works to reduce blood clots and promote Qi circulation, and improve blood vessel strength.

  • Bai Shao (White Peony): Nourish the Liver Yin energy and controls Liver Qi, along with eliminating any Qi stagnation.

  • Zhi Qiao (Bitter orange): work to break down the blockage and allow the Qi energy to flow in the right direction.

  • Dang Gui (Angelica): Angelica sinensis, commonly known as dong quai or female ginseng works for nourishing the blood energy and improving blood circulation.


Reference:

  1. Winer, S. A., Rapkin, A. J. (2006). Premenstrual disorders: prevalence, etiology and impact. Journal of Reproductive Medicine; 51(4 Suppl):339-347.

  2. Dennerstein, L., Lehert, P., Heinemann, K. (2011). Global study of women's experiences of premenstrual symptoms and their effects on daily life. Menopause International; 17: 88–95.

  3. Armour M, Ee CC, Hao J, Wilson TM, Yao SS, Smith CA. Acupuncture and acupressure for premenstrual syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2018, Issue 8. Art. No.: CD005290. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005290.pub2.


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