MENSTRUAL CRAMPS & PAIN (DYSMENORRHEA)
Written by Slawomir (“Swavak”) Gromadzki, MPH
It’s not unusual for many girls women to experience mild pain during their periods for a couple of days each month. However, if your pain is more than mild, you may have “dysmenorrhea”. Dysmenorrhea, also known as painful menstruation (periods), or menstrual cramps, usually occurs before and at the beginning of menstruation and typically lasts less than three days. The pain is usually located in the pelvis or lower abdomen. Menstrual spasms (cramps) are defined as involuntary contractions of the uterus.
There are two types of dysmenorrhea; primary and secondary. In the primary dysmenorrhea, which is most common, cramping and pain usually start 1–2 days before the period begins and can last 2–4 days. Secondary dysmenorrhea is the result of a medical condition such as fibroids or endometriosis or in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is found outside its normal location.
CAUSES
– Menstrual pain is caused by excessive uterine contractions (when the uterus tightens and relaxes, allowing blood to leave the uterus). The lining of uterus releases prostaglandins which increase the strength of the contractions, especially during the first days of the menstrual cycle.
– It is very possible that the painful menstruation, caused by increased uterine contractions, has a lot to do with magnesium deficiency (very common problem today) as magnesium helps muscles, including the uterus, to relax. Without enough magnesium in the body uterus contracts too much causing pain.
– Painful menstruation and uterine cramps can be also caused by hormonal imbalance caused by too much oestrogen which has been proven to cause excessive uterine contractions. Many women are suffering from painful menstruation due to having too much oestrogen (oestrogen dominance) caused by many factors including overweight leading to excess estrogen which is deposited in adipose (fat) tissue, xenoestrogens (pesticides, plastics, DDT and dioxin), lack of exercise, etc.
– Liver congestion and weakness can contribute to the increased levels of oestrogen and painful menstruation. Excess of oestrogen is normally removed in part, via the liver. Unfortunately, since the liver gets frequently overloaded with toxins it becomes less efficient and unable to filter them and also ineffective in removing excess of oestrogen.
– Xenoestrogens, which contaminate water and food stored in plastic containers, mimic real oestrogen and magnify the negative effect of oestrogen dominance in the human body increasing its contracting effect on uterine muscle and pain.
– Low levels of progesterone contribute to painful menstruation and menstrual cramps because unlike oestrogen progesterone relaxes the uterine smooth muscles. Chronic psychological stress, toxins, poor dietary habits and other factors can indirectly deplete progesterone levels.
– Frequent uterine contractions accompanied by pain can be caused by an increased amount of inflammation, poor blood circulation in uterus and congestion caused by lack of physical activity and exercise, dehydration, cold feet and hands, poor diet, etc.
– Excessive consumption of animal foods, such as meat, containing Arachidonic Acid contributes to dysmenorrhea as it increases the production of prostaglandins (hormone-like chemicals involved in activation of the onset of bleeding).
– Emotional stress, nervousness, and anxiety contribute to the menstrual cramps as the brain can influence uterus through the nervous system triggering excessive contractions. For this reason irritability, inability to control stress, anxiety and any negative emotions may have a very bad influence on the female reproductive system. The problem gets much worse when nervousness and frequent psychological stress are associated with magnesium deficiency and lack of other vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients involved in maintaining normal brain and muscle function.
– Other factors that contribute to menstrual cramps include Lack of exercise, thyroid and liver problems, lack of zinc and B vitamins, certain medications, a refined diet high in sugar and white flour products, use of stimulants (caffeine, alcohol, illegal drugs, cigarette smoking), artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, lack of probiotic bacteria in the gut due to bad refined diet, antibiotics, consumption of meat and dairy products, sugar, stimulants, overgrowth of harmful bacteria and candida (yeasts), toxins, stress, lack of dietary fibre, etc.
TREATMENT
– The most important aspect of successful treatment is lifestyle and diet according to the recommendations listed in the HEALTH RECOVERY PLAN >
Please study it carefully and do your best to use the remedies and implement all the principles. If you manage to do it you will recover from this problem.
– Treat endometriosis >
– Treat Blocked Fallopian Tubes >
– “The video on hormones by Barbara O’Neil (below) has given me thousand times more information than the several wasted doctor appointments. Its truly LIFE CHANGING! I’ve been sharing it with all my friends!” J Medrano
– Water treatments such as hot bath or sauna are excellent to reduce or eliminate pain from the uterus. You can also keep your feet in very hot water for about 30 min to remove blood congestion and reduce pain and inflammation as it removes blood congestion from any area of the body. Details about HOT FOOT BATH are found in HYDROTHERAPY >.
– Remember to keep your feet and hands always warm by wearing proper shoes, socks, and gloves and keeping feet in hot water as otherwise cold feet and hands may create congestion in upper parts of the body, including the uterus, contributing to the poor blood circulation and inflammations.
HERBAL REMEDIES & SUPPLEMENTS
– Since lack of magnesium (extremely common today due to soil depletion, stress, use of stimulants and refined diet) leads to spasms and dysfunction of various muscles, including uterus, heart, stomach, colon, magnesium supplementation is often the best and sometimes only way to relax these muscles. Therefore, the most important supplement to use for muscle cramps, stomach cramps, or menstrual (uterine) cramps is good quality magnesium such as magnesium citrate. It relaxes the nervous system and muscles including the uterus. Magnesium deficiency is rampant today and it is essential to cope with menstrual cramps and tension. Magnesium will also help you to relieve insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and nervousness, as it relaxes the nervous system. Magnesium together with chromium and potassium also helps reduce sugar cravings.
Oral magnesium successfully relieves premenstrual mood changes >
Magnesium is effective in reducing premenstrual symptoms in women with PMS >
Take a daily dose of at least 800 mg of good quality magnesium such as magnesium citrate (400 mg 30 minutes before breakfast and 400 mg 1-2 hours before bed). Start from small doses such as 100 mg two times a day and gradually increase the dose. Magnesium citrate is very well absorbed and mildly laxative, which can be very beneficial for those who are constipated.
However, if you want to avoid laxative effect try other types such as magnesium taurate as it is also easily absorbed (magnesium and taurine stabilize cell membranes) and it has no laxative effect. Also, magnesium orotate and glycinate (magnesium bound with amino acid glycine) are very well absorbed forms of magnesium, and shouldn’t impose a laxative effect.
Some sources suggest avoiding frequent supplementation with magnesium glutamate and aspartate as glutamic acid and aspartic acid are components of the dangerous artificial sweetener aspartame, and both of them may become neurotoxic when unbound to other amino acids. Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) and magnesium oxide are regarded as lower quality magnesium due to their inferior bioavailability. Both of them may also cause a laxative effect, though it might be beneficial for those with sluggish bowel movement.
– Keep in mind that to properly treat menstrual cramps you also need vitamin D3 but the more vitamin D you take the more magnesium you need as vitamin D supplements lead to a magnesium deficiency! You must supplement vitamin D3 because almost all people today suffer from its deficiency! While using vitamin D3 supplements always remember to take also well-absorbed magnesium (such as citrate) as vitamin D supplements lead to magnesium deficiency over time. Take at least 5,000 – 10,000 IU of vitamin D3 a day with breakfast. Another requirement for proper absorption of vitamin D is 200 mcg of Vitamin K2 MK-7 (Derived from Natural Natto) a day. Read more about vitamin D >
According to one study women who took vitamin D supplements had 41 percent reduced PMS symptoms. Here is an example of how vitamin D supplement helped to recover from PMS: “In my youth, my life was literally high-jacked by my cycle. For half of the month, I lived on Xanax and Percocet. My moods were so completely subject to whatever day of the month it happened to be folks who knew me well enough also knew just when to avoid me. One marriage and several relationships ended over my PMS and painful menstruations. Even with Percocet, there were days I could not get out of bed. Since raising my vitamin D level to above 74 ng/ml, I am pain-free, and my mood is always sunny. Vitamin D has literally return to me my life. I suffered since age 11. It’s not much of a stretch to say I lost my entire youth to PMS and painful periods.” >
Supplemental therapy with vitamins D and E is an effective and affordable treatment for PMS >
– Two or three times a day try to drink the following herbal teas (or take them in the form of capsules) that impose a calming effect on the nervous system as it will also have a beneficial effect on the uterus and should reduce cramps: Tulsi (Holy Basil), Lemon balm (Melissa), Valerian root, Chamomile, Hops, etc.
– Agnus Castus (known also as Vitex, Chaste Berry or Monk’s Pepper) is regarded as the most effective herbal remedy in coping with uterine cramps and PMS symptoms. It is especially useful and even amazing when PMS is associated with heavy and painful periods, menstrual cramps, short cycle, mood swings, irritability, fluid retention, or tender breasts. Agnus castus is a large shrub (native to the Mediterranean region of southern Europe) with lilac or white flowers and small fruits.
Taking Agnus works by stimulating the body to produce more natural progesterone in a safe and controlled way.
According to a German study, over 90% of the female participants reported that their PMS symptoms either significantly decreased or even completely disappeared after 3 months of treatment with Agnus castus! In another large study (with 1,634 participants taking Agnus castus) 42% reported complete recovery from PMS while 51% managed to decrease symptoms. In addition, 86% of the physicians involved in the study declared that the treatment of PMS with Agnus castus had “a pronounced efficacy”. At the same time, no serious side effects of using Agnus castus were reported.
For PMS I usually recommend Agnus castus in the form of tincture (Natures Answer) or tablets (Natures Aid) and our female customers repeatedly confirmed the effectiveness of both of them. If you want Agnus castus to work faster take it in the form of the tincture (Natures answer makes the most effective one). It must be taken every day throughout the cycle (not just the week before the period). Stop taking AC after the symptoms disappear and start again if they appear again.
It is not recommended to take Agnus castus or any other hormone-balancing herb (Dong Quai, Black Cohosh, etc.) if you use hormonal contraceptives, hormonal medication, an implant or a coil as AC may nullify their effect by regulating the hormonal imbalance they cause.
In addition, vitex also helps treat the secondary dysmenorrhoea as by balancing the ratio of estrogen to progesterone, it reduces and prevents fibroids >.
– Apart from Agnus castus also Dong Quai can be beneficial in reducing period cramps as it is an antispasmodic herb able to reduce the intensity of cramps.
– Raspberry leaf may bring relief in menstrual pain and heavy periods. Raspberry leaf has been used for centuries to help women at various points during their menstrual cycles. According to Dr Diana Ramos, “Fragarine (the active ingredient in raspberry leaf) is known to help tone and tighten muscles in the pelvic region, thereby assisting with the cramps caused by spasms of these muscles.” In addition, tannins, found in the same raspberry leaf, are believed to strengthen the uterus, thus helping to mitigate heavy and irregular menstruation. Studies have concluded that there are no side effects of using a raspberry leaf. A 2000 study indicated that raspberry leaf has the ability to act as a relaxant agent thereby able to help with muscle (including uterus) spasms and cramping. Also according to a 2002 research by scientists from the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Portsmouth in the United Kingdom raspberry leaf extract had a relaxant activity.
– According to Dr Barry Sears menstrual problems and PMS are linked to a genetic defect in the proper synthesis of Gamma Linolenic Aid (GLA) which is the building block of prostaglandin hormones. Medical research provided data according to which women with severe PMS and menstrual pains have GLA levels about 80% lower than normal. There are also studies indicating that women on GLA supplement (Evening primrose oil and Star flower oil) get relief. However, according to other studies there was no benefit. Trying to explain the cause of this contradiction, Dr. Sears suggests that often GLA supplementation alone can’t resolve menstrual problems and PMS, because it has to be combined with a healthy lifestyle and proper unrefined diet that increase insulin sensitivity and reduce blood levels of this hormone. It is so important because GLA is the building block of both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory prostaglandin hormones. If there is too much insulin in the body, an enzyme called delta -5 desaturase is activated and converts GLA into arachidonic acid, which is then converted into pro-inflammatory prostaglandins responsible for painful menstruation and PMS symptoms. Dr. Sears stated that this is exactly what he has suggested to hundreds of his PMS female patients with menstrual problems. It worked in one to two months when GLA was combined with healthy unrefined diet and regular exercise.
– Dr. Hanley recommends natural progesterone in the form of a wild yam cream (rubbed into the skin), because only 10 % of hormones taken orally actually reach the bloodstream; the liver filters out the rest. The wild yam cream should be used between ovulation and the day before the menstrual flow starts.
– Black cohosh. This herb is recommended instead of Agnus castus in case of light periods with longer cycle (more than 4 weeks apart) and low mood, tiredness.
– Calcium (only citrate): 500 mg a day with breakfast. Testimonial: “When I was in my mid-twenties I had hard menstrual cramping, and someone recommended taking calcium lactate (capsules-not tablets). It worked, and I never had menstrual cramps again. I’m now passing my mid-fifties, and over this past summer ‘was getting leg cramps in the middle of deep sleep. I purchased and began taking a calcium complex, and got relief right away. I usually only need to take half the dose, which is: 200 I.U. Vit. D, 500 mg Calcium, 250 mg Phosphorus, and 250 mg Magnesium. Whenever I forget to take them, the cramps come back the same as before. My husband is also getting relief of leg pain now taking this dose, and he is quite the pessimist when it comes to such things”. (Source >) The truth is, however, calcium deficiency rarely contributes to muscle cramps. In most cases, it is rather due to magnesium deficiency and some other causes.
– Vitamin B6: A group of British researchers suggest that taking a daily dose of 100 to 200 milligrams of vitamin B6 may be very helpful in relieving PMS symptoms. According to the study women with PMS taking vitamin B6 supplements experienced significantly reduced PMS symptoms (such as depression) compared to the placebo group. In order to be more effective, B6 supplements should be taken about seven days before menstruation. For the first two weeks of the cycle, it is recommended to take about 100 mg of B6 daily with other B vitamins. Also keep in mind that the more vitamin B6 you is used, the more magnesium is needed. magnesium is also necessary to be used with vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin B6 alleviates depression associated with premenstrual syndrome >
– Zinc citrate (citrate doesn’t cause nausea): 30 to 50mg a day after breakfast. According to some sources, vitamin B6 must be taken with zinc as without it B6 won’t help to cope with hormonal imbalance and PMS symptoms! You need to take about 20 to 50mg of zinc after breakfast.
– Curcumin (in Turmeric) attenuates the severity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms >
– Saffron is efficacious in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome >
– Soy isoflavone consumption reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome >
– Learning to control stress and anxiety is one of the most important aspects of effective treatment. Unfortunately, most of us know from experience that it is very difficult and often even impossible to control stress, overcome fear, anxiety and depression, or to become a positive-thinking person simply because those negative emotions and fears seem to be a part of our nature. The good news, however, is that many people claim to find inward peace and great improvement in emotional health as a result of daily heart-felt meditation and spiritual communion with a Higher Power. However, according to medical research, this kind of spiritual approach is effective only when combined with sincere faith in a powerful but at the same time loving and carrying God. On the other hand, believing in a demanding, punishing and vengeful God was associated with increased risk of depression and mental disorders. Also thoughtful reading uplifting spiritual literature such as the Gospel of John (found in the Bible), which presents God as always loving, saving, healing, forgiving, and self-sacrificing, is another great way to find inward peace, hope and happiness. [bg_collapse view=”button-green” color=”#4a4949″ expand_text=”Show More” collapse_text=”Show Less” ]
– Good quality Multivitamin-mineral formula or Vitamin B-complex: 1 tablet after breakfast. Please do not buy cheap formulas as their potency is very low and they contain an only a short list of inorganic ingredients. It must be a good quality formula such as Healthy Mega (HealthAid), VM75 (Solgar) or Special Two (NOW Foods) which are an excellent multi-vitamin and mineral formulas fortified with alfalfa powder, rutin, citrus bioflavonoids, bromelain, herbs, digestive enzymes and many other super nutrients. If your diet is very healthy and you stay away from refined foods, sugar and stimulants then take only 1/2 tablet after breakfast.
– Since Vitamin B complex (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, Folate) play very important role in dealing with cramps I recommend getting B complex with a good quality multivitamin-mineral formula which is high in B vitamins. One of my favourite ones is Healthy Mega (HealthAid) as it is not only high in B vitamins and at the same time, it contains zinc, selenium, herbs, digestive enzymes, micronutrients, and few supergrasses. Compared with other popular formulas Healthy mega may contain even up to 60 times more vitamins per tablet!
Adults may take 1 tablet of Healthy Mega after breakfast, children 1/2 tablet (or less) crushed and mixed with juice after breakfast.
Healthy Mega contains many ingredients such as B vitamins, Zinc, Selenium, Alfalfa, Goldenseal, Digestive enzymes or Guar gum which are very beneficial for the nervous system, digestive and immune system and should also reduce menstrual cramps.
– Take good quality probiotic formulas as gut health greatly depends on a healthy ratio between good and bad bacteria. Good quality Probiotic formula is one of the best ways to keep Candida (one of the key causes of PMS and menstrual problems). The most effective probiotic formulas are the following: UltraProbio, ImmuProbio, ColiProbio by HealthAid. Another excellent probiotic supplement is Symprove as it delivers live, active multi-strains of bacteria to the gut – just where they are needed. It’s totally different to any other multi-strain supplement because of its Unique Delivery System (UDS). This special delivery system protects the ‘beneficial’ bacteria from the gastric juices in the digestive tract, where they quickly reach targeted areas of the gut and colonise. The bacteria arrive, thrive and survive. Independent research shows the best results come when used continually for 12 weeks. Many people then go on to take a maintenance dose (half dose) as part of their daily diet. Delivered as a refreshing, water-based, Mango & Passion Fruit drink, Symprove is non-dairy and gluten-free.
Please be careful in choosing supplements with probiotic bacteria s not long ago scientists tested many popular products and supplements which were supposed to contain live probiotic bacteria and tests revealed it was true in only 30% of them! Also, majority of yoghurts are deprived of live cultures and even if they contain some it is a much lower number than good quality probiotic supplements.
– There are women who claim to recover from menstrual pain and cramps as a result of taking Vitamin B12 supplements: 1,000 to 2,000 mcg a day under the tongue (must be in the form of sublingual Methylcobalamin). Deficiency of this vitamin is regarded as rampant today. Read a fascinating article on B12 >
– Several studies have shown that taking Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce or even reverse symptoms of dysmenorrhoea. Omega 3 does it by decreasing the amount of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids in cell membranes and replacing it with Omega 3. It is so important because high levels of omega 3 in cell membranes make the building blocks of anti-inflammatory hormones available in sufficient amounts. Take good quality Omega 3 fish oil supplements such as Omegazon by HealthAid as it is molecularly distilled and therefore free from mercury and other contaminants >). I recommend this one also because it is high in both EPA and DHA.
If you don’t want to use a molecularly distilled omega 3 fish oil (such as the mentioned above one by HealthAid) it’s much better to use high in DHA omega 3 oil from algae (expensive) and not from fish as unlike fish oils, the algae-derived omega 3, is free from toxins that may be present in some low-quality fish oils. In case you prefer to avoid swallowing gelatine capsule pierce or cut the omega 3 capsule and squeeze it into a meal or liquid.
– Serotonin. Since one of the reasons for PMS is lower serotonin levels it is important to increase the production of this very important antidepressant and feel-good hormone. The best way to do it is regular aerobic energetic exercise such as fast walk for about 30-60 min a day (especially in the morning). Try to exercise outside as the more light you see the more serotonin will be produced. Apart from that, also vitamin B6, folate, magnesium, zinc, L-tryptophan (5HTP) and complex carbohydrates (bananas, dried fruits, etc.) are required for the proper synthesis of serotonin in the brain.
Read more about effective ways to increase serotonin >
– According to a 2015 study, Melissa leaf (Lemon balm) (taken in capsule form) effectively reduced PMS symptoms in high school-aged women. (>)
– According to some specialists, detoxifying the liver can relieve PMS symptoms. Raw vegetable juices, Milk Thistle, Chlorella, Taurine and Charcoal are most excellent in helping the liver to get rid of toxins. Avoid processed foods, stimulants, medication, toxins, sugar, meat products, fried foods, and bad fats (refined oils, margarine, animal fats). Use only organic raw coconut oil. Drink only distilled water between meals.
– If your periods are very heavy, take 2 times a day 10 tablets of chlorella or spirulina (highest natural sources of iron) or another natural iron supplement to support your iron levels and prevent fatigue.
NUTRITIONAL AND LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS
– Exercise at least 30–60 minutes per day.
– Get enough sleep.
– Practice deep breathing.
– Proper stress control and positive thinking – extremely important!
– Avoiding chlorine, fluoride (toothpaste with fluoride, tap water, etc.), and bromine.
– Don’t drink tap water as it is often high in estradiol (100 times more powerful than estrogen) which causes hormonal imbalance in both men and women. Try buying water in glass bottles as Bisphenol A (BPA) which is found in plastic bottles and cans (they are lined up with plastic) disrupt the endocrine system. If possible, drink and use for cooking only distilled or at least filtered water. Unfortunately, not all water filters remove fluoride, so make sure the one you have does (such as reverse osmosis filters) or use only distilled water (buy a water distiller) as distillation is the best and most economic way to remove all contaminants from water as well as harmful inorganic calcium. Taking chlorella and turmeric help to get rid of fluoride and heavy metals such as mercury that have already accumulated in your body. Read more about drinking water >.
– Avoiding chlorine, fluoride (toothpaste with fluoride, tap water, etc.), and bromine.
– No Splenda or other artificial sweeteners!!! Use Xylitol or Stevia instead.
– No sugar and high glucose / high fructose syrup!!! Use Xylitol or Stevia instead.
– Avoid gluten (wheat products, etc.)
– Avoid or reduce consumption of acidic foods: all meat and dairy products (cheese is the worst!).
– Eliminate stimulants (alcohol, smoking, anything with caffeine or other similar harmful alkaloids: coffee, tea, green tea, mate, yerba mate, cola, chocolate, etc.).
– Go on vegan unrefined diet as it gives best results. Eat especially plenty of raw vegetable salads and raw vegetable juices. Hallelujah diet is the best and most effective.
– Eliminate all junk food, processed food, artificial sweeteners, trans fats, and anything with bad preservatives and chemical.
– Eat whole, unprocessed foods, and choose as many organics as possible.
– Get adequate sun exposure if possible (20 minutes a day during summertime between 10 am and 2 pm) to maintain vitamin D levels.
– Avoid hydrogenated fats and trans fats (margarine, doughnuts, cakes, etc.) and pro-inflammatory omega 6 fatty acids (soy oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, etc.).
– Increase consumption of omega 3 fatty acids in the form of ground flax seeds, chia seeds. Omega 3s are the building blocks for hormones that control immune function and cell growth.
– Detoxifying body from heavy metals by using a combination of Chlorella, Milk Thistle, Turmeric, Cilantro.
– Remove any dental fillings containing mercury.
– Increase intake of healthy fats such as raw coconut oil, coconut milk, avocado, chia seeds (soaked for at least 30 minutes or overnight), ground flaxseed, and hemp seeds as they will balance hormones. Coconut oil is a saturated fat comprising medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known to increase metabolism and promote weight loss. Coconut oil is very stable (shelf life of three to five years at room temperature), so the body is much less burdened with oxidative stress than it is from many other vegetable oils.
– Increase consumption of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene found in carrots, apricots, green leafy vegetables, etc.
– You need more fibre but increase it gradually. Start from vegetable juices as they are deprived of fibre and will heal the colon. You can try steamed and cooked vegetables and slowly add more raw vegetables.
– Avoid hot spices, fried foods, and salt.
– Avoid antibiotics and aspirin.
– Avoid or significantly reduce the consumption of meat and dairy products as they contribute to hormonal imbalance. Excessive consumption of animal foods, especially meat, containing Arachidonic Acid contributes to dysmenorrhea as it increases the production of prostaglandins (hormone-like chemicals involved in activation of the onset of bleeding).
– Completely eliminate intake of refined sugar as it is one of the key causes of candida overgrowth of Candida which is one of the key causes of PMS. Instead of sugar use safe sweeteners such as xylitol or stevia. Don’t use artificial sweeteners as they cause numerous very dangerous side effects. Even honey and sugary foods should be avoided at this stage of your menstrual cycle. Also, avoid products made from white flour as well as snacks with significant fat content. Besides soda drinks, alcohol and caffeinated drinks should also be avoided. In place of these foods, eat more vegetables, seafood, nuts, beans and seeds.
– Avoid caffeine. The image below shows how certain drugs and toxins may degrade the spider’s ability to build a spiderweb. On caffeine, it seems unable to do more than string a few threads together at random. The more toxic the chemical, the more deformed the web.
– Treat unresolved emotional issues as a source of stress. Menstrual cramps reflect emotions and mental attitude. Stress, anxiety or depression are often key culprits. It is important to identify the stressors and learn to use ways such as prayer that can help to control stress and negative emotions.
– Read about the DEADLY CONSEQUENCES OF UNFORGIVENESS >
– If you believe in the existence of God don’t forget about daily fervent prayers and reading or listening to good spiritual literature (such as the Bible, Desire of Ages > and “Ministry of Healing” > by Ellen G White available online free of charge) which presents God as loving, healing, forgiving, carrying and saving from eternal death Person. All this will greatly increase the effectiveness of your improved diet and lifestyle: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1Thessalonians 5:16-18, NIV); “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV). Because from my own experience I know and remember how difficult it was, in my case, to change my eating habits and give up on junk food and stimulants using my own pathetic at that time will power, I recommend to you reading or listening to a book “Steps to Christ” > and Great Controversy > by Ellen White. If you carefully study all the information presented there and follow the steps, you will not only become victorious but will actually experience an inward transformation which will enable you to enjoy your new lifestyle (including diet and physical activity).
RELATED ARTICLES
– FIBROIDS (CAUSE OF SECONDARY DYSMENORRHAEA) >
– Read HEALTH RECOVERY PLAN and implement principles for at least one week.
– Address ADRENAL FATIGUE >
CHOSEN CUSTOMER REVIEWS ON AGNUS CASTUS – (FROM AMAZON)
“Am nearly 45 and bordering menopausal. All the emotional symptoms, depression, mood swings, irritability. I have started taking Agnus Castus and literally feel 20 years younger overnight. Completely back to the ‘me’ I know.”
“I was on birth control pills for over 6 years, once I decided to stop I didn’t get my period in 3 months. After the 2nd month had passed I decided to try this product and a little bit over 5 weeks since I started taking it my period came and not as painful as I was expecting it to be since it was the first after 6 years of birth control pills.”
“For me, this meant my cycle was as regular as ever (still the usual 26-27 days) but my period was lasting for some 21-24 days of that cycle! I was becoming oestrogen-dominant, and my progesterone levels were falling. Since progesterone is the hormone that tells your periods when they need to stop, my body was no longer getting that clear signal after the usual four or five days, and it just carried on… This went on for five months, until I ordered these tablets in absolute desperation, and took one per day, every day. Having seen previous reviews that mentioned them needing a month to take full effect, I was prepared for my next period to be just as bad… but it wasn’t. Yes, one day of it was as heavy as before, but the entire period lasted just four days. As did the next one. And the one after that. And everyone I’ve had since. The only downside? The cramps are back (understandable, since Agnus Castus is known as “nature’s progesterone”, and it’s progesterone that releases the prostaglandins in the body, which cause cramps), but I can live with those for one or two days if it means I get my life back. Put bluntly, these things have saved my sanity. They’ve also saved my wallet. If you’re having problems with long, heavy periods -especially if you’re entering or in perimenopause, I highly recommend giving these a try.”
“I started taking these pills at 45. I was still getting very swollen sore boobs before my period and had been diagnosed with Fibroids. My periods got very heavy and irregular. I was recommended to have the coil fitted which I did and that stopped the heavy periods but not the very sharp pain deep in my groin throughout the month. After taking these for a few weeks the pain has stopped. When I have missed the tablets (whilst waiting to get to shops for more) then the pain reappears, so I know it helps. No more sore boobs either!”
“Very happy and will purchase regularly, cannot believe how well they work for me. Brought them as I have had irregular extra-long cycles, but after a month of taking them religiously, daily, 2 times a day, my period is here more than two weeks earlier, which is great when you’re ttc!!!”
“Ordered these as they are supposed to help with fertility and regulating hormones and ovulation. I don’t ovulate every month and have been taking these for the last 3 months and have ovulated every month :).”
“This is brilliant for those women looking to balance their hormones and regulate their cycle. Mine have always been a little all over the place and now 3 months on this, I’m pretty much to the day. I also feel better in myself generally. I was suffering with bouts of depression, possibly related to PMDD (as well as underlying depression) but this seems to have helped with those symptoms also.”
“I’ve been taking Vitex since the last 9 months and it’s significantly helped to eliminate my awful PMS symptoms which I would normally suffer from a week after my periods, and then would gradually get worse 2 weeks prior to my periods as well.”
“I initially bought this product to help with my anxiety and hormonal imbalance problems, but all that happened to me in the two months of taking it was PREGNANCY! This is not what me OR my partner expected at all and it was definitely this stuff that did it. We are over the moon though and remarkably my anxiety and hormonal problems have dispersed – but I do think this is due to the pregnancy NOT the Agnus Castus.”
“I started taking these for two months after I had not been getting any periods from coming off the pill. After this time, I slowly began spotting and then finally a few months later had my first real period after stopping the pill. I only wish I had started these earlier as my husband and I were trying to conceive. I was diagnosed with PCOS which obviously does not help the period situation but I swear that it was these tablets that kick started my body into trying to get pregnant. It’s certainly worth a try — they’re only herbal after all!”
“Gave it a try, suffered emotions/depression for few days pre menstruation then aching all over like I had been kicked and a head full of cotton way, for several days post menstruation, had this for couple of years. Been taking 2 tablets for 3 months and now symptoms only last a day each. Feel much better.”
“I am still within the initial three months of time needed to allow for the medication to be working in my system fully. I am taking just one each day. I felt like I was coming together somehow, I am beginning the menopause, so feel desperate for some help right now. My water retention is cared for now too thanks to these tablets. I would like to come back to my feedback to explain I unfortunately, have had a bad experience since taking Agnus castus. perhaps it is because I suffered with eczema since a child and anxiety later in adult life but I developed a skin rash, which just kept getting worse and worse and itched like crazy, so decided it seemed to happen since taking these, but otherwise I felt like I am coming together so would not have stopped taking if not for the rash, which has spread up both arms and starting to pass my elbows but within about fourth day of not taking the itching has begun to calm down so I am certain I have experienced the side effects quite severely as also to begin with I did experience terrible panic attacks at time of pmt but at the time did not realise I was having pmt as mine began to be irregular before I began Agnus, Agnus definitely regulated me, so sad really for me now that I had to stop taking.”
“I, like many other people researched the tablets and their benefits before I purchased. I suffer from thin PCOS and have very long and irregular cycles. I am not at the right stage (according to our fantastic NHS!) to receive any fertility treatment. I had heard that Agnus Castus helps PCOS so I decided to take charge of my condition and try it. I am so pleased. I was 63 days into another long cycle when I started taking this. Usually long PCOS cycles are anovulatory so I was just expecting my period soon, however, 11 days later I appeared to ovulate on my own! I use BBT charting and ovulation tests so I am pretty certain I ovulated. I am now waiting to see if I’m pregnant. If I am then I will certainly be shouting from the rooftops about this product as I will have achieved it on my first cycle of trying and that is a massive achievement for a PCOS’er. There is hope and I would urge anyone in a similar situation to try it.”
“I rarely write reviews, but thought I’d have to for this. I took 2 a day for approx 3 weeks and started my period again after not having one for months after coming off birth control. I also felt a lot better after having the symptoms of a menopausal woman for a while (estrogen tested extremely low). Obviously no one can ever be 100% positive it is due to Agnus Castus, though it is definitely worth a try for its price. I did, however, notice that it did make my stomach sensitive, though with plenty of fibre, absolutely fine!! For the record I am a 22 year old.”
“On June ’13, my blood test showed I had high prolactin level. Me and hubby had started ttc a month before that result. After trying for all these months (no + results yet) I started to read, search and get informed online about a ”solution”. I’ve read in so many blogs that AC was a good one for women who have high prolactin level and it was good in balancing the hormonal imbalances. Based on BBT, CM and POK I ovulate, but usually on 26CD-29CD and my cycles are 45 days long average. I gave it a try and bought it. Started to take it on 18/09/13 (CD4) and a week after 25/09/13 did a blood test at my endocrinologist appointment. I received his call just now saying that the PROLACTIN LEVELS are normal and I don’t need to take Cabergoline (he had prescribed it in case they were high again). I had my 1st Flashy Face on my Clearblue Ov Monitor on CD16 and is still flashy today, hopefully I’ll Ov tomorrow, CD20. So it seems that AC is working for me balancing my hormonal levels… and fingers crossed I hope to see my first BFP soon!!!”
“I was quite sceptical when I ordered these tablets, however I have been really surprised by just how quickly these tablets have helped me. I am in my late thirties and I have very long, irregular periods- within 1 month of taking these tablets my cycle has been reduced from approx 60 days down to 25days!!! I cannot praise these tablets enough!!!! I can’t believe i suffered for years without them!!!!”
“I would also agree with other reviewers in that I feel more like ‘me’ again. I have always had severe mood swings (gine one minute, almost depressed the next). Not only have the tablets helped in shortening my cycle, they have also helped with ovulation and made it more regular and like ‘clock-work’ (very helpful for women who are trying for a baby). My moods are less severe and I feel more on an even keel are they say!!!!”
SOURCES
– British Medical Journal May 22, 1999;318:1375-1381.
– Loch E-G, Selle H, Boblitz N. Journal of Women’s Health and Gender-Based Medicine 2000; 9 (3): 315-20.
– Van DIe, MD, et al.. “Effects of a combination of Hypericum perforatum and Vitex agnus-castus on PMS-like symptoms in late-perimenopausal women: findings from a subpopulation analysis.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine 15.9 (2009): n. pag. pubmed.gov. Web. 21 May 2014
– www.livestrong.com/article/508617-medical-studies-of-red-raspberry-leaf-tea/
– How Can Estrogen & Progesterone cause Period Pain?
– Pre Menstrual Syndrome and Menstrual Cramps, how I eliminated them completely
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