By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 14, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For Premenstrual Syndrome

Herbal teas for premenstrual syndrome are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms associated with this condition, which can include mood swings, bloating, and fatigue.

These teas, specifically Vitex agnus-castus, Passiflora incarnata, Zingiber officinale, Hypericum perforatum, Ginkgo biloba, Paeonia lactiflora, Cimicifuga racemosa, Lavandula angustifolia, Valeriana officinalis, and Angelica archangelica, work to regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce stress.

Without proper treatment, premenstrual syndrome can severely impact daily life, causing emotional distress, relationship strain, and reduced productivity.

1. Vitex agnus-castus

Vitex agnus-castus teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains compounds that regulate hormonal balance, particularly estrogen and progesterone.

This herbal remedy supports the pituitary gland's function, encouraging the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which in turn stimulates the ovaries to produce hormones in a more balanced and natural way. As a result, symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness are reduced, allowing women to experience relief from the discomforts associated with premenstrual syndrome.

Regular consumption of Vitex agnus-castus tea may promote a smoother menstrual cycle.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitex agnus-castus teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome by regulating hormonal balance and reducing menstrual cramps.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: They help in reducing anxiety and stress associated with premenstrual syndrome by modulating neurotransmitter activity in the brain.
• Flavonoids: These compounds help in improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression associated with premenstrual syndrome by acting as antioxidants and modulating neurotransmitter activity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Vitex agnus-castus used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Flowers: They are used to make teas due to their high concentration of agnuside, a compound believed to have a positive effect on hormonal balance.
• Leaves: The leaves are used as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help alleviate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome.
• Seeds: The seeds are used to make teas as they are rich in lignans, which may help balance estrogen levels and reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

2. Passiflora incarnata

Passiflora incarnata teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because it is rich in flavonoids and alkaloids, which have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress associated with PMS.

The tea's sedative properties can also help regulate sleep patterns, a common issue for women experiencing PMS. Furthermore, Passiflora incarnata tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which may alleviate physical symptoms such as cramps and bloating, providing relief and comfort for women during this time.

It promotes overall well-being and relaxation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce stress and alleviate physical symptoms associated with PMS.
• Alkaloids: As a natural sedative, Harmine may help regulate mood and reduce anxiety, making it easier to manage PMS symptoms such as irritability and mood swings.
• Furocoumarins: Psoralen has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the uterus, which can help alleviate cramps and other physical symptoms associated with PMS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Passiflora incarnata used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of passifloric acid and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and calming properties.
• Fruits: They are used as they contain a high amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help to balance hormones and reduce symptoms of PMS.
• Flowers: They are used for their sedative effects, containing passiflorin and flavonoids, which help to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety associated with PMS.

3. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound, gingerol, has been shown to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that can cause cramps, bloating, and mood swings. Drinking ginger tea may also help alleviate nausea and digestive issues associated with PMS. Additionally, ginger's anti-inflammatory effects may help soothe menstrual cramps and promote relaxation, making it a popular natural remedy for managing premenstrual symptoms.

Its calming properties can also reduce stress and anxiety.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Gingerols: Help to reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramps associated with PMS by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.
• Shogaols: Possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to ease bloating, cramps, and mood swings experienced during PMS.
• Gingerol-6 and shogaol derivatives: Demonstrate estrogenic activity, which can help to alleviate symptoms of PMS, such as mood swings and breast tenderness, by regulating estrogen levels.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: The leaves are used because they have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce cramping, bloating, and other symptoms related to PMS.
• Roots: The roots are used because they contain a high concentration of gingerols and other compounds that help reduce nausea, pain, and other symptoms associated with PMS.

4. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because it is rich in flavonoids, particularly hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds help to reduce symptoms of PMS, such as mood swings, anxiety, and depression, by regulating neurotransmitters and hormones.

Hypericum perforatum teas may also help to alleviate physical symptoms like breast tenderness and bloating by reducing prostaglandin levels and improving blood flow, providing relief and promoting overall well-being during the premenstrual phase.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate the physical and emotional symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome.
• Phenolic acids: These acids have a regulating effect on hormones, which can help reduce mood swings, breast tenderness, and other symptoms experienced during premenstrual syndrome.
• Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have a sedative effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce anxiety, irritability, and other emotional symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Hypericum perforatum used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: They are commonly used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and hyperforin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate PMS symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers of Hypericum perforatum are often used in teas to reduce anxiety and stress associated with PMS, thanks to their content of flavonoids and essential oils.
• Roots: The roots of the plant are sometimes used in teas to provide a more concentrated dose of hyperforin, which has a potential role in regulating hormonal imbalances that contribute to PMS.

5. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its potential to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.

The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Ginkgo biloba may help alleviate symptoms such as breast tenderness, mood swings, and fatigue. It may also aid in regulating hormonal imbalances, which contribute to PMS. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba's antioxidant properties can help protect against oxidative stress, potentially reducing symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and irritability associated with PMS.

This may contribute to a more balanced menstrual cycle.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Flavonoids: They have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as bloating and breast tenderness.
• Bilobalide: It has antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with premenstrual syndrome, leading to a reduction in symptoms like anxiety and mood swings.
• Ginkgolides: They have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory effects, which can help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as headaches and migraines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are used due to their ability to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with PMS.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used because they contain a compound called flavonoid, which has been shown to have a positive effect on mood and reducing symptoms of PMS.
• Roots: Ginkgo biloba roots are used because they contain a compound called ginkgolic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of PMS.

6. Paeonia lactiflora

Paeonia lactiflora teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains isoflavones and other bioactive compounds that help regulate hormonal balance.

These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can alleviate symptoms of PMS such as bloating, cramps, and mood swings. Additionally, Paeonia lactiflora teas have been traditionally used to calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels associated with PMS.

This can lead to a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in overall well-being during the premenstrual phase.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia lactiflora teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and anxiety.
• Saponins: Saponins in Paeonia lactiflora teas help to reduce prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that contribute to menstrual cramps and other premenstrual symptoms.
• Tannins: Tannins in Paeonia lactiflora teas have been shown to have a sedative effect, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, thereby alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Paeonia lactiflora used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Flowers: Used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome due to their ability to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Leaves: Used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome due to their estrogen-regulating properties that help alleviate symptoms.

7. Cimicifuga racemosa

Cimicifuga racemosa teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because it is rich in compounds that regulate hormonal balance and ease menstrual cramps.

The tea's active ingredients, such as sesquiterpenes and phenolic acids, have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce prostaglandins, which cause pain and discomfort during PMS. Additionally, Cimicifuga racemosa teas may also help to normalize mood swings and emotional instability associated with premenstrual syndrome, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

This natural remedy offers relief from PMS symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cimicifuga racemosa teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Isoferulic acid: Isoferulic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as bloating and cramps.
• 23-dehydro-26-hydroxy-23,24-dihydronortropane: This constituent has neurosteroid-like activity, which may help alleviate anxiety and mood swings associated with premenstrual syndrome.
• Rotundifuran: Rotundifuran has a sedative effect, which may help reduce symptoms of insomnia and promote relaxation in women experiencing premenstrual syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Cimicifuga racemosa used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Roots: The roots of Cimicifuga racemosa are used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome due to their high concentration of isoflavones, particularly actein and cimiracemoside A, which are believed to have estrogen-like properties.
• Buds: The buds of Cimicifuga racemosa are used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome, as they are believed to contain bioactive compounds that may help regulate hormonal balance and reduce symptoms.

8. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its natural anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's high levels of linalool and linalyl acetate have been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation, alleviating symptoms such as mood swings and irritability.

Additionally, the tea's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce cramping and bloating associated with PMS, promoting a sense of calm and well-being in individuals experiencing premenstrual symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Linalool: Helps with premenstrual syndrome by reducing anxiety and stress levels due to its anxiolytic properties.
• Linalyl acetate: Contributes to alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome by exerting a sedative effect and promoting relaxation.
• Caffeic acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as bloating, cramps, and mood swings.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Lavandula angustifolia used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: They are used due to their calming and relaxing properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as anxiety and mood swings.
• Flowers: They are used because of their sedative effects, which can help reduce stress and promote a restful night's sleep, essential for managing premenstrual syndrome symptoms.
• Buds: They are used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly linalool, which has a calming effect and can help reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as irritability and anxiety.

9. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, which have a calming effect on the nervous system.

The tea's sedative properties can help alleviate anxiety and irritability associated with PMS. Additionally, its ability to regulate sleep patterns and reduce stress can improve overall mood. The tea's natural compounds also help to relax the muscles and reduce cramps, making it a popular natural remedy for PMS symptoms.

This herbal tea can provide relief and promote a sense of well-being during the menstrual cycle.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Valerenic acid: Helps with premenstrual syndrome by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Valerenol: Contributes to relieving premenstrual syndrome symptoms by having sedative and anxiolytic properties, which can help with stress and mood regulation.
• Isovaleric acid: May help alleviate premenstrual syndrome symptoms by exhibiting a sedative effect and potentially reducing symptoms of insomnia and restlessness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Valeriana officinalis used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis are used because they contain the highest concentration of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for its sedative and anti-anxiety effects.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they are a readily available and more accessible part of the plant, offering similar benefits to the roots in smaller quantities.

10. Angelica archangelica

Angelica archangelica teas helps with premenstrual syndrome because it is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea contains ferulic acid, which has been shown to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that contribute to menstrual cramps and mood swings. Additionally, the tea's flavonoids may help regulate hormonal imbalances and calm the nervous system, reducing symptoms of anxiety, bloating, and breast tenderness often associated with PMS.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate premenstrual discomfort and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica teas that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Phenolic glycosides: These compounds help alleviate premenstrual syndrome symptoms by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing menstrual cramps and discomfort.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Angelica archangelica tea have a sedative effect, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety associated with premenstrual syndrome.
• Ligustilide and butylphthalide: These sesquiterpenes have anti-spasmodic properties, which can help ease menstrual cramps and other premenstrual syndrome symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Angelica archangelica used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome.

• Roots: They are used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome because they contain angelica's diuretic and antispasmodic properties, which help to alleviate symptoms such as bloating and cramps.
• Leaves: They are used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome because they are rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly potassium and magnesium, which help to regulate hormonal balance and reduce symptoms.
• Seeds: They are used to make teas for premenstrual syndrome because they are believed to have a calming effect, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation during the premenstrual phase.