OnHealth Got PMS Get Chaste Tree Berry

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Got PMS? Get Chaste Tree Berry

Instead of reaching for painkillers in the medicine cabinet or a

chocolate bar when suffering from premenstrual syndrome (PMS), how about

reaching for some herbs?

Dong quai, evening primrose and chaste tree berry may all be

beneficial for women with PMS symptoms, such as cramps and breast

tenderness, according to research presented last week at the American

Pharmaceutical Association annual meeting in Washington, D.C.

Dr. L. Hardy, medical director of the Cedars-Sinai Integrative

Medicine Medical Group in Los Angeles, pointed to studies highlighting the

health effects of these three herbs against PMS symptoms. Chaste tree berry,

Dr. Hardy says, was once cited by Hippocrates, the father of modern

medicine, as having an effect on the female reproductive system. Turns out

Hippocrates was right. This herb appears to influence hormones that control

the menstrual cycle, which therefore affects PMS, Dr. Hardy says.

Other research suggested evening primrose may reduce the severity of

PMS symptoms, particularly breast tenderness. And dong quai, a popular

Chinese herbal remedy, has been shown to have high quantities of vitamin B12

in its root, which can be helpful for PMS sufferers.

These herbs are not to be used during pregnancy, Dr. Hardy cautions.

As herbal remedies and alternative medicine use continues to grow, she adds,

it's important for physicians and pharmacists to familiarize themselves with

these treatments.

Daily Briefings by Katrina Woznicki

http://onhealth.com/ch1/briefs/item,85873.asp