Governed by the endocrine system, the menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interaction of hormones: luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen and progesterone, and is divided into three unique phases: follicular, ovulatory and luteal. Spanning an average of 28 days, the entire process is like a well-choreographed dance, with each phase relying on a specific and extremely delicate hormonal balance.
Unfortunately, environmental factors such as artificial light and the onslaught of pollutants we’re exposed to on a daily basis have disrupted our circadian rhythms and compromised our hormonal health.
In the days before electricity, the moon was our main source of nocturnal light. Women’s bodies were influenced by the amount of moonlight we perceived, and our hormones were duly triggered. All women cycled together. In modern society with round-the-clock artificial light, remaining in sync with nature’s cycles is a serious challenge.
To compound the matter, we are the first generation to be exposed to an unprecedented amount of toxic environmental chemicals, a direct result of increased industry following World War II. These chemicals – derived from plastics, petroleum, pesticides, food additives and more – disturb endocrine balance by mimicking estrogen in the body. Dubbed “xenoestrogens”, these foreign estrogens have given rise to numerous symptoms and conditions related to hormonal imbalance, such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, fibroids, and cancer.
It is therefore not surprising that menstrual cycles don’t run smoothly for every woman, every month. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Dysmenorrhea are common experiences to all women who menstruate. PMS refers to the complexity of symptoms women experience as a result of high hormone levels before, and sometimes during, their periods. Big Pharma has created a niche market to treat PMS (a physiologically normal part of a woman’s cycle) as a disease. There is big money in PMS! We often joke about it, but for sufferers PMS is no laughing matter. Symptoms may include: anxiety, irritability, mood swings, sugar/chocolate cravings, bloating, spotting, fatigue, acne, and headaches. The term Dysmenorrhea refers to severe, disabling cramps associated with the menstrual period. Symptoms vary from woman to woman, and may include backache, leg pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. (Secondary Dysmenorrhea, which refers to severe menstrual pain resulting from an underlying condition such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or Endometriosis, will not be discussed here.)
Fortunately, there are several natural treatment options for those looking to balance their hormones and relieve menstrual discomforts, without resorting to prescription medication. Homeopathy, developed in present-day Germany over 200 years ago by physician and hygienist Samuel Hahnemann, is a system of natural medicine that encourages the body to rebalance itself. It is safe, gentle and non-invasive, as well as effective in treating a variety of mental, emotional and physical complaints. Treatment with Classical Homeopathy involves taking a detailed case history encompassing your chief health concerns, an overview of all body systems, and the health history of your family. Based on the information gathered, a single homeopathic remedy is selected specifically for you, intended to stimulate your body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Here are some homeopathic remedies, along with their guiding symptoms, to consider for menstrual discomforts:
While a well-chosen homeopathic remedy can do wonders, often within 2 to 3 cycles, bear in mind that the quality of your diet directly influences hormonal function. Here are some easy suggestions: Eliminate processed, refined or genetically modified foods. Invest in a food additives dictionary and start reading labels – a scary but worthwhile exercise. Choosing whole grains, meat and dairy products from natural and ethical farms, plus raw nuts and seeds, cold-pressed oils, and fresh fruits and vegetables is a good place to start. Go organic and reduce your exposure to xenoestrogens at the same time!
Supplementing with magnesium may benefit nervousness, cramping, constipation, backache and headache associated with the menstrual cycle. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), with its mild diuretic effect, is well-known for treating PMS-related breast swelling and tenderness as well as water retention. Additionally, Vitamin B6 enhances absorption and retention of magnesium in the body. Studies have shown the efficacy of Omega-3 supplementation in the reduction of menstrual cramps. Look for pharmaceutical-grade fish oil or DHA-enriched flaxseed oil. Finally, aim for 30g of dietary soluble fibre, such as chia or ground flax, to prevent reabsorption of excess estrogen into the bloodstream.
Another useful tool in understanding your cycle and identifying potential triggers is to chart your cycle. Pay special attention to any of your cycle’s distinguishing features, such as headaches, food cravings, and mood changes. A healthy attitude towards your monthly cycle, along with some simple dietary and lifestyle changes, can effect huge changes. And lastly, acknowledge and celebrate the amazing changes our bodies are capable of doing every month.
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Thank you for the helpful review