PMS Ease

“Premenstrual Syndrome” (PMS) is the name given to the cycle occurrence of distressing symptoms experienced by women in their most estrogen active years. The symptoms appear one to two weeks prior to menses, but within a week after the first day of menstruation, they diminish significantly or disappear.

Do you have any of these symptoms on a monthly or ongoing basis?

​The exact cause of PMS has not been identified. However, it is believed to be related to both biological (hormone) and psychological (neurotransmitter) factors.​

PMS is estimated to affect up to 75% of women during their childbearing years.

Clinical Applications

• Offers Natural Support for Women with Common Premenstrual Complaints
• Provides Herbs That Have a Long History of Use in Women’s Reproductive Health

Dr. Q’s PMS Ease is a comprehensive blend of Native American and Chinese herbs traditionally used to provide balance and support for a healthy menstrual cycle.

Discussion

This tradition-based, multi-herb formula combines “female herbs” and traditional tonics that have been chosen by means of clinical observation for their complementary and compounding effects.

Chaste Berry Extract (Vitex angus-castus) has been used for centuries to support women with hormone-related gynecologic complaints. Modern research has validated this traditional use by showing that various preparations of chaste berry demonstrate positive effects in women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). [1,2] The German Commission E approves the use of chaste berry to support menstrual cycle regularity, breast tenderness, and PMS; and it is widely recommended by family physicians and gynecologists in Germany. [3] Iridoids and flavonoids are thought to exert benefits through indirect effects on various hormones, especially prolactin and progesterone.

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) promotes fluid balance. Its effect appears to be mediated through an inhibition of the sodium-potassium pump. As an aquaretic, parsley is ascribed the benefit of increasing urine volume while supporting retention of electrolytes. Parsley is also considered to have cleansing and detoxifying properties.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has been commonly used for its ability to help maintain healthy fluid balance and for its cleansing effects. In vitro research suggests that the active constituents in dandelion—which include luteolin, quercetin, and inulin—suppress cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), increase antioxidant activity, upregulate phase II detoxification, and support bifidobacteria growth.

Dong Quai Extract (Angelica sinensis) has its origins in China, Japan, and Korea, where it has been traditionally used to balance the female cycle and address common symptoms of PMS. Research suggests that dong quai affects the contractive rhythm of the uterus. Many functional medicine practitioners believe dong quai works best in combination with other herbs to support menstrual regularity.

Licorice Extract (Glycyrrhiza glabra) functions as a weak phytoestrogen and has traditionally been used to help regulate menstruation and relieve commonly experienced menstruation-related muscle cramping. The metabolite of glycyrrhizin, glycyrrhetic acid, is similar in structure to hormones secreted by the adrenal cortex, and licorice is sometimes used along with bupleurum to support adrenal gland function. In vitro research also suggests that licorice has a positive influence on inflammatory pathways.

Peony (Paeonia lactiflora), also known as bai shao yao, is a Chinese herb used to help regulate menses and decrease minor pain. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), peony and licorice are used together and are thought to have great synergism relating to their effects on neuromuscular junctions.

Tangerine (Citrus reticulata) is a traditional Chinese herb also known as pericarpium or chen pi. It is derived from aged tangerine peel and traditionally used to help relieve the common premenstrual complaint of breast tenderness. TCM practitioners also use chen pi to help prevent stagnation and relieve minor abdominal fullness and minor pain.

Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale) has been studied for its effects on inflammatory mediator biosynthesis. In fact, in vitro work suggests that components of ginger can positively affect the expression of inflammatory genes. It is thought that the production of inflammatory mediators may encourage some of the common symptoms of PMS. Ginger is also thought to be good for circulation, nausea, and gas. In this formula, ginger is included for its “warming” effect which balances the “cooling” effects of other herbs.

Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) has been used by women for centuries to support and balance the reproductive system, and to relax the uterus. In traditional herbalism, red raspberry has been connected to female health and is used as a remedy to support normal menstrual flow.

Bupleurum (Bupleurum falcatum), also known as chai hu, is a traditional “female cycle balancer” that has uterine-calming activity. Chinese medicine practitioners use chai hu to unblock liver qi stagnation that manifests as menstrual cramping, emotional changes, and breast tenderness. An animal study suggests that chai hu supports a healthy mood through central adrenergic mechanisms. [17] It also has been shown to regulate the neuroendocrine system by increasing beta-endorphin and decreasing epinephrine and dopamine, which probably accounts for its relaxing properties.

Directions

Take two capsules daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Children, pregnant or lactating women, and individuals using blood thinners should consult their healthcare practitioner prior to use. Do not use if tamper seal is damaged.

Does Not Contain
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Wheat, gluten, corn protein, yeast, soy, animal or dairy products, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, or preservatives.