PMS...Mother Nature's signal of things to come! Women can experience PMS from mild to severe and can include anything from headaches, cravings, bloating and moodswings (men, you know this one well!)
Today's blog is geared at looking at TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and its approach to PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) - now you may think this information will be just for the ladies, but guys - I know you'd like to know just as much if there is a way to reduce or manage PMS!
Generally speaking PMS is the umbrella term that describes the emotional and/or physical discomfort prior to the onset of menstruation. In addition to those symptoms mentioned above, PMS can also include depression, irritability, anxiety, lethargy, loss of concentration, changes in libido, skin eruptions, food cravings, crying, outbursts of anger, headaches, bloating and insomnia. These symptoms vary from one woman to the next in terms of intensity as well as duration - ranging between 1 day to 2 weeks.
In terms of Chinese Medicine, PMS occurs because of a disharmony of the liver and spleen Qi (pronounce 'chee' which means energy or life force). However, in TCM these organs are viewed quite differently than in Western medicine. The liver initiates the menstrual cycle and the spleen follows through. In addition, some factors that affect PMS are emotional strain, overworking and poor eating habits.
Acupuncture, nutrition/diet therapy as well as supplementation are an effective way of restoring harmony to the liver and spleen. In addition, exercise and relaxation techniques are also very helpful in the balanced approach to PMS. Making the appropriate lifestyle changes, in combination with Acupuncture, can yield excellent results for PMS. Although some cases may take longer, I generally suggest a minimum of three menstrual periods to regulate the cycle completely although many women notice improvement immediately!
So ladies (and gents!) if PMS is a concern - consider taking the ancient, oriental route to healing your cycle symptoms!
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