As many as three out of four women suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a troublesome but largely harmless range of symptoms whose effects become evident in the run up to a period.
Problems include physical ailments such as water retention and swollen joints (especially ankles), food and alcohol cravings, weight gain, skin problems, weakness and headaches.
There are also psychological disturbances such as irritability, poor concentration, decreased sex drive, insomnia and depression.
The major cause of PMS is due to imbalance of female hormones during the menstrual cycle which results in accumulation of salt and water in the system and a shortage of progesterone, the hormone that prepares the uterus to receive the fertilized egg.
Lack of essential fatty acids such as lenoleic acids can also upset this balance and lead to hormone deficiency.
Vitamin B6 is known to regulate menstrual cycle, so lack of it may be another reason for distress.
What the Natural Doctor Recommend? Aromatherapy: Take a daily bath containing the essential oils of clary sage, geraniums and lavender during the two weeks before a period is due.
The same oils may also help if inhaled from a tissue.
Oils of Roman chamomile, Rose Otto and Melissa are beneficial.
Inhale the scent of a single drop of any of them from palm of the hand, cupping it over the nose.
Massage: A massage helps in relieving PMS.
A neck and shoulder massage is recommended for head ache, and a light abdominal massage to ease discomfort in that region.