Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and emotional disorders that occur after a woman ovulates and menstruation ends. Common symptoms include anger, irritability, anxiety, tension, depression, crying, hypersensitivity, exaggerated mood swings, fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, acne, changes in appetite, and sleep disturbances. PMS is believed to be the result of alterations or interactions between the levels of sex hormones and brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Ayurvedic PMS treatment aims to treat symptoms and prevent or reduce the severity of recurrence. Medications such as Triphala-Guggulu, Maha-Vat-Vidhwans-Ras, Vat-Gajankush-Ras, Shankh-Vati, Agnitundi-Vati, and Vish-Tinduk-Vati are used to reduce menstrual cramps, body pain, and abdominal bloating. Medicines such as Punarnavadi-Guggulu, Gokshuradi-Guggulu, Ikshumool (Saceharum officinarum), Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), Apamarga (Achyranthus aspera), Deodar (Cedrus deodara increase) and Yav-amphora increase Yav-ampouratinglas are used. and breast tenderness. Medications such as Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Shankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Vacha (Acorus calamus), Mandukparni (Centella asiatica), Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina), Rauwolfia, depression, anxiety serpentina) irritability and mood swings. Medications such as Laxmi-Vilas-Ras, Shrung-Bhasma, Abhrak-Bhasma, Arjunarishta, Dashmoolarishta, and Drakshasav can be used to treat fatigue, depression, sleep disorders, and appetite changes.
To prevent or reduce the severity of recurrences, medications such as Chandraprabha-Vati, Ashokarishta, Gandharva-Haritaki, Hingashtak-Churna, and Saraswatarishta can be given for several months. The herb Ashoka (Saraca indica) is the main treatment for this condition. If given regularly over several menstrual cycles, it can correct dysfunction and disproportionate levels of sex hormones.
For most women, PMS symptoms can be adequately controlled with medications and lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, and a support system for family and friends. Treatment of PMS has to be personalized for each individual according to their symptoms and other requirements.