Natural Remedies for PMDD: Top Herbs to Balance Hormones

PMDD, or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, is marked by significant emotional and physical symptoms that appear in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Similar to PMS, it occurs within the 2 weeks before a woman’s bleeding phase. Imagine PMS but much more intense. Emotional mood swings, irritability, depression, pain, headaches, and a variety of other symptoms can emerge during this time. Many women feel as if they are losing control of their body or mind, which can be incredibly frustrating. Even after being diagnosed with PMDD, women often have lingering questions that are not adequately addressed. The reality is, whether it’s PMDD or PMS, these are just labels. Often, the labels we receive in relation to our menstrual cycles are highlighting one thing: our NEEDS. It’s true. You can significantly improve your cycle’s outcome by caring for your body in a holistic way, considering ALL aspects of your health. This includes making lifestyle changes, focusing on nutrition, incorporating gentle movements, attending to social needs, spending time in nature, and investigating potential hormonal imbalances in your body.

Hormonal imbalances are increasingly affecting women across America. Every day, countless women find themselves in OBGYN offices, seeking answers to why they feel so out of balance. We, as women, sense that something isn’t right, yet it’s often elusive, and doctors frequently rely on hormonal birth control as a catch-all solution. The causes behind these imbalances are numerous, including environmental factors, malnutrition, toxins, processed foods, cleaning products, hygiene products (yes, even that favorite perfume), and stress. The symptoms are like little check engine lights, signals your body uses to communicate. From debilitating headaches to PMDD, the emotional toll of being misunderstood or labeled “crazy” is profound. Many women feel trapped in a cycle of pain and confusion, with seemingly no escape. I’ve personally faced the turmoil of hormonal imbalances, confined to my couch as I battled ruptured ovarian cysts and PMDD symptoms. Despite the prevailing belief that periods must be unbearably painful or heavy, I held on to the hope for a better way. Determined, I embarked on a journey to naturally heal my body through lifestyle changes and herbal medicine.

Since the beginning of time, humans have turned to the Earth for their medicine. In ancient times, women were the healers. We were the midwives, the herbalists, the ones people turned to when they needed help. We held ALL of the knowledge. Through patriarchy and a ruthless need for power, women and healers were forced to hide their gifts. Lives were stolen, and the sacred wisdom of our elders was buried in secrecy. People lived in fear. Eventually, men monopolized the practice of medicine, and countless papers heralded modern medical practices as the only safe path, shoving herbal medicine and its profound wisdom even deeper into the shadows. Unless you were blessed to be born into a family that passed down the ancient knowledge of herbal healing, you reluctantly followed the mainstream narrative. Women have lost touch with the miraculous nature of our bodies. We no longer remember how to soothe menstrual pain with herbs or heal endometriosis using Mother Nature’s bounty. We’ve been misled to believe these diagnoses are incurable and that we must endure unbearable symptoms for eternity. I am here to reignite that forgotten spark of hope within you. You are not condemned to suffer from PMDD symptoms for the rest of your life. Let’s delve into the top three herbs for PMDD, PMS, and hormonal imbalances and uncover how they can transform your life.

CLICK HERE to shop our apothecary The Rooted Female Herbals: Moon Time Tea for PMDD, PMS, and Hormonal Imbalance

Stinging Nettle

Historically, nettle has been used to alleviate menstrual pain and regulate cycles. Its high iron content helps combat fatigue associated with heavy menstrual bleeding. Nettle is considered a nutrient-dense herb, rich in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for hormonal imbalances as it restores nutrition and increases energy levels. This remarkable herb also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling, and its natural diuretic effect aids in flushing out toxins from the body. Because nettle supports overall health, it is particularly beneficial for the skin, hair, and nails, promoting growth and strength. Whether consumed as tea, capsules, or in tincture form, nettle is a versatile and powerful ally in maintaining reproductive health. One of my favorite herbs to drink daily to make sure that I am getting proper minerals!

Benefits of Stinging Nettle for Hormones and Menstrual Health:

• Rich in nutrients (vitamins A, C, K, iron, and minerals)
• Anti Inflammatory
• Alieviates water retention and swelling
• Hormone Balancing (aids in menopause and hormonal fluctuations)
• General tonic for energy

Red Raspberry Leaf

Historically, red raspberry leaf has been used to ease menstrual discomfort and regulate cycles. Its soothing properties help alleviate cramps and promote hormonal balance, and it is still widely used in pregnancy, breastfeeding, labor, and in women’s health. This herb is also known for its rich nutritional profile, making it easier to get the vitamins and minerals necessary for a healthy menstrual cycle. Raspberry leaf tea is not only a traditional remedy but also a modern wellness staple. Many women swear by its ability to reduce nausea and strengthen the uterine wall during pregnancy, enhancing overall reproductive health. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to a smoother menstrual experience, and its high content of iron and calcium supports overall bodily health. Incorporating raspberry leaf into your daily routine can be a natural way to maintain well-being and support reproductive health across various stages of life.

Benefits of Red Raspberry Leaf for Hormones and Menstrual Health:

• Rich in vitamins and minerals (C, E, Calcium, Iron )
• Mood uplifting
• Tones and strengthens uterus
• Pain relief for cramps
• Aids in digestion
• Hormone balancing

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm has been used for centuries for its calming properties. Ancient Greeks and Romans valued it for its ability to relieve stress and anxiety. This herb is a great addition to your daily routine as it aids in nervous system calming. Relieving symptoms of irritability, panic attacks, mood swings, pain, and overall assists in wellbeing. Additionally, lemon balm is known for its antiviral properties, making it effective in treating cold sores and other viral infections. It can also improve cognitive function, enhance sleep quality, and promote a sense of relaxation. Moreover, it’s versatile and can be consumed as a tea, tincture, or applied topically, providing various ways to incorporate its benefits into your lifestyle. PMDD is related to nervous system dysregulation and trauma making lemon balm or another calming herb perfect for your menstrual health routine.

Benefits of Lemon Balm for Hormones and Menstrual Health:

• Soothes gas and digestion
• Alleviates Menstrual POain
• Regulates mood and uplifts
• Relieves stress and anxiety
• Sleep support
• Antioxidant

Conclusion

Incorporating herbal remedies into your reproductive wellness routine can be a powerful way to manage PMDD, PMS, and hormonal imbalances. Nettle, raspberry leaf, and lemon balm each offer unique benefits that can help ease symptoms and promote overall well-being.

Nettle provides vital nutrients and helps reduce bloating, while raspberry leaf supports uterine health and hormonal balance, making it an excellent choice for menstrual regulation. Lemon Balm brings calming effects, which can alleviate anxiety and mood swings associated with hormonal fluctuations.

As you explore these herbal options, remember that individual experiences may vary. By understanding and utilizing these herbs, you can take proactive steps toward achieving greater harmony in your body and mind, empowering yourself to navigate the challenges of PMDD, PMS, and hormonal imbalances with greater ease. Your moon time is sacred and you deserve to embody a cycle of ease and peace. You can shop my Moon Time herbal blend here making it super easy to get vital the nutrients you need for your cycle in one cup of tea!

Feel free to let me know if you try these herbs and how they benefited you!

xoxo The Rooted Female