Systematic review, 2022
Can diet and herbal medicine help with PMS symptoms?
Few studies exist, but the review suggests eating well is important for managing PMS. Three herbal medicines show potential: Vitex Agnus Castus, Angelica sinensis, and evening primrose oil, though stronger evidence is needed.
What they did
Researchers reviewed studies from 2010 to 2020 on whether diet and herbal medicines help women with PMS. They examined research in women of reproductive age and discussed how eating patterns change during the cycle and how foods and herbs affect symptoms.
What they found
Food consumption changes across the cycle. In one study of 30 women, 53 percent showed increased appetite and 43 percent craved sweet foods during certain phases. The review identified three herbal medicines with potential benefit: Vitex Agnus Castus, Radix Angelica Sinensis, and Oenothera biennis (evening primrose). The reviewers concluded that adequate nutrition is essential for reducing PMS symptoms.
What it means for you
Healthy eating may help with PMS, and some herbal medicines might work too. The main limitation is that very few rigorous studies exist in this area. Much more research is needed before doctors can make strong recommendations about diet and herbs for PMS.
75-80%
Of women experience PMS
53%
Had increased appetite in study
43%
Craved sweet foods in study
About the study
- Original title
- Nutrição funcional e aplicabilidade de fitoterápicos na saúde da mulher com Síndrome Pré-Menstrual: revisão sistemática / Functional nutrition and applicability of herbal medicines in the health of women with Premenstrual Syndrome: systematic review
- Authors
- Maria Gabriela Gregolato Ferrão, Maria Vitória Machado, Evandro Marianetti Fioco
- Journal
- Brazilian Journal of Health Review
- Year
- 2022
- Study design
- Systematic review
- What was tested
- Functional nutrition and herbal medicines: Vitex Agnus Castus, Angelica sinensis, Oenothera biennis
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.34119/bjhrv5n4-067
Topics
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