By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Premenstrual Syndrome
Herbal creams for premenstrual syndrome are topical products infused with herbs that alleviate symptoms associated with PMS.
They help to reduce cramps, anxiety, and mood swings by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation. Examples of herbal creams that help with PMS include those containing chasteberry, ginger, and passionflower.
By using these creams, women can experience reduced symptoms, improved mood, and increased comfort, allowing them to continue their daily activities with minimal disruption, thereby improving their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for premenstrual syndrome, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Angelica archangelica
- 2. Paeonia officinalis
- 3. Valeriana officinalis
- 4. Vitex agnus castus
- 5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Melissa officinalis
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Avena sativa
- 10. Camellia sinensis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for premenstrual syndrome?
- What ailments similar to premenstrual syndrome are treated with herbal creams?
1. Angelica archangelica
Angelica archangelica, also known as angelica, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains bioactive compounds such as ligustilide and senkyunolide, which have anti-inflammatory and estrogen-regulating properties.
These compounds may help to alleviate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, including bloating, mood swings, and cramping. Additionally, angelica creams may help to regulate hormonal fluctuations and promote relaxation, reducing overall stress and discomfort experienced during the premenstrual phase.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to support women's health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Phenolic acids: They help alleviate premenstrual syndrome symptoms by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce the severity of menstrual cramps and mood swings.
- Ferulic acid: It has a positive effect on premenstrual syndrome by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, thus mitigating the symptoms of menstrual cramps, bloating, and mood disturbances.
- Apiol: This constituent helps alleviate premenstrual syndrome symptoms, particularly menstrual cramps and mood swings, by acting as a uterine relaxant and exerting a sedative effect on the nervous system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Roots: Known for their sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate PMS symptoms.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can contribute to reducing stress and anxiety associated with PMS.
- Buds: Contain volatile oils with anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe menstrual cramps and other PMS symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for premenstrual syndrome.
- Harvest fresh angelica archangelica roots in late summer or early fall when they are at their peak potency.
- Clean and dry the roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Create a liquid extract by steeping 100 grams of dried roots in 500 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 10 grams of beeswax to 100 milliliters of the extract.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler until the beeswax is fully incorporated and the cream has cooled to room temperature.
2. Paeonia officinalis
Paeonia officinalis, also known as pink peony, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its rich content of flavonoids and glycosides.
These compounds are believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and emotional instability associated with PMS. The anti-inflammatory properties of Paeonia officinalis creams may also help alleviate physical symptoms such as breast tenderness and cramping, promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being during the premenstrual phase.
This natural remedy offers a holistic approach to managing PMS symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia officinalis creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Paeoniflorin: It helps with premenstrual syndrome by reducing prostaglandin levels, which contribute to pain and inflammation associated with menstrual cramps.
- Paeonol: It helps with premenstrual syndrome by reducing anxiety and stress, as well as improving mood, due to its ability to act on the brain's neurotransmitter systems.
- Paeonoside: It helps with premenstrual syndrome by having a sedative effect, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness associated with premenstrual syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pink peony used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Roots: The root of Paeonia officinalis is used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome because it contains paeonol, a compound with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Paeonia officinalis are used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome because they contain paeoniflorin, a compound with anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Leaves: The leaves of Paeonia officinalis are used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome because they contain paeonol and other compounds that have a calming effect on the body.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pink peony for premenstrual syndrome.
- Harvest 20 grams of fresh paeonia officinalis roots in early morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the roots at 50 degrees celsius for 48 hours in a well-ventilated area.
- Steep 20 grams of dried paeonia officinalis roots in 1 liter of cold-pressed oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 weeks of steeping time.
- Mix 10 grams of the infused oil with 50 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of distilled water.
3. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its natural ability to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.
The active compounds in valerian root, such as isovaleric acid and valerenic acid, have been shown to have a sedative effect on the body, which can help alleviate symptoms of PMS like mood swings, irritability, and insomnia.
By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, valerian creams can provide relief from premenstrual symptoms, allowing women to feel more balanced and centered.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene acts as a GABA receptor agonist, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which are common symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome.
- Isovaleramide: This valerenic acid derivative has sedative and anxiolytic properties, contributing to its ability to alleviate symptoms of restlessness, irritability, and mood swings often experienced during premenstrual syndrome.
- Valerenol: This sesquiterpene has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing symptoms of anxiety and insomnia, which are common complaints among women experiencing premenstrual syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Roots: They are the primary source of valerenic acid and other compounds that have a sedative and anti-anxiety effect, making them useful for alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
- Seeds: They contain valerenic acid and other bioactive compounds that can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making them a popular choice for PMS creams.
- Stems: They are also a rich source of valerenic acid and other compounds that have a calming effect, which can help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as anxiety and mood swings.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for premenstrual syndrome.
- Harvest 30g of valeriana officinalis roots from a certified organic source.
- Clean the harvested roots by gently scrubbing them with a soft brush.
- Steam distill the cleaned roots to extract their essential oil.
- Mix the extracted essential oil with 100g of emulsifying wax and 20g of beeswax.
- Blend the melted wax mixture with 250ml of distilled water and 50g of a humectant.
4. Vitex agnus castus
Vitex agnus castus, also known as chaste tree, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because they contain the active compound aucubin, which has been shown to regulate hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms associated with PMS, such as mood swings, breast tenderness, and bloating.
The cream's anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
By supporting the body's natural hormonal cycles, Vitex agnus castus creams can help to alleviate PMS symptoms and improve overall menstrual health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitex agnus castus creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides in Vitex agnus castus help alleviate premenstrual syndrome by regulating menstrual cycles, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improving sleep quality.
- Agnuside: Agnuside, a unique iridoid glycoside found in Vitex agnus castus, helps alleviate premenstrual syndrome by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, thereby regulating hormonal imbalances associated with PMS.
- Diterpenes: Diterpenes in Vitex agnus castus help alleviate premenstrual syndrome by exhibiting anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties, as well as reducing symptoms of insomnia and restlessness associated with PMS.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chaste tree used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Flowers: The flowers of Vitex agnus castus are commonly used due to their high content of iridoid glycosides, which are believed to have a regulatory effect on the hormonal balance and alleviate PMS symptoms.
- Seeds: The seeds of Vitex agnus castus are used in creams for PMS due to their rich content of essential oils and flavonoids, which may help to regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce symptoms of PMS.
- Leaves: The leaves of Vitex agnus castus are also used in creams to alleviate PMS symptoms, possibly due to their content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help to regulate hormonal balance and reduce anxiety and other symptoms associated with PMS.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chaste tree for premenstrual syndrome.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of dried vitex agnus castus flowers from a reputable source and store them in an airtight container.
- Combine the dried flowers with 100 milliliters of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a double boiler at 150-170 degrees fahrenheit for 4-6 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Mix 10 grams of beeswax with 50 milliliters of the infused oil in a double boiler at 180-190 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The licorice extract in these creams has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common symptoms of PMS. Additionally, licorice root has been traditionally used to balance hormones and ease menstrual cramps, making it a popular natural remedy for PMS.
Its soothing effects can also help to calm the skin, reducing irritation and redness often associated with premenstrual symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as bloating and mood swings.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, quercetin and kaempferol in Glycyrrhiza glabra have been shown to have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects, which can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with premenstrual syndrome.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate cortisol levels, which can become imbalanced during premenstrual syndrome, leading to symptoms such as mood swings and fatigue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help alleviate PMS symptoms such as cramps and mood swings.
- Leaves: They are used because of their ability to reduce stress and anxiety, common symptoms associated with PMS.
- Roots: They are also used for their antioxidant properties, which help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by hormonal fluctuations during PMS.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for premenstrual syndrome.
- Infuse 50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in 500 milliliters of distilled water for 30 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid and discard the solids to obtain 250 milliliters of liquid extract.
- Mix 100 grams of emulsifying wax with 100 grams of vegetable oil in a double boiler.
- Combine 250 milliliters of the liquid extract with the emulsified mixture and heat until smooth.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before transferring it to containers for storage.
6. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in Hypericum perforatum, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to modulate neurotransmitters and hormones, helping to alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including mood swings, anxiety, and physical discomfort. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects may help reduce symptoms of bloating and breast tenderness associated with PMS.
This natural remedy may provide a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Hyperforin: Acts as an anti-anxiety and anti-depressant agent, helping to alleviate symptoms of irritability and mood swings associated with premenstrual syndrome.
- N-hydroxyhyperforin: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce symptoms of breast tenderness, bloating, and mood disturbances commonly experienced during premenstrual syndrome.
- Flavonoids: Possess anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of breast tenderness, mood swings, and other premenstrual symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Leaves: The leaves of Hypericum perforatum are used due to their flavonoid and phenolic content, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate PMS symptoms.
- Flowers: The flowers of Hypericum perforatum are used because of their high concentration of flavonoids, such as hyperforin and hypericin, which have been shown to have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects, helping to reduce PMS symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Hypericum perforatum are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially helping to alleviate PMS symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for premenstrual syndrome.
- Harvest 250 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in the morning when dew is still present.
- Combine the harvested hypericum flowers and leaves with 250 milliliters of jojoba oil in a double boiler.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 2-3 hours or until the oil has turned a deep green color.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
- Allow the cream to infuse for 2-3 days in a cool dark place before using it.
7. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its calming and soothing properties.
The herb contains rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and mood swings associated with PMS. Additionally, Melissa officinalis has been traditionally used to ease cramps, insomnia, and restlessness, making it a natural and effective remedy for managing premenstrual symptoms and promoting overall well-being.
Its gentle and non-invasive nature makes it an appealing option for those seeking natural relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of PMS such as bloating, cramps, and mood swings.
- Linalool: A terpene, linalool has anxiolytic and sedative effects, which can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with PMS, promoting relaxation and better sleep.
- Limonene: A terpene, limonene has antidepressant properties, which can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety that are common during PMS.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which have a calming effect on the body and can help alleviate PMS symptoms.
- Flowers: They are used for their sedative and anxiolytic properties, which can help reduce anxiety and stress associated with PMS.
- Stems: They are used to provide a base for the cream, while also contributing to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate PMS symptoms such as breast tenderness and cramps.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for premenstrual syndrome.
- Harvest melissa leaves and flowers from a pesticide-free area at the peak of their fragrance and potency.
- Dry the harvested melissa material in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 weeks or until crispy.
- Infuse 250g of dried melissa material in 1l of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a temperature of 60-70°c for 2-3 hours.
- Strain the infused oil mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 100g of beeswax and 200g of shea butter.
- Heat the mixture at a temperature of 60-70°c and whip until thickened to the desired consistency and texture.
8. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds present in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause menstrual cramps and bloating.
Additionally, ginger's warming and soothing effects can help alleviate nausea, fatigue, and mood swings associated with PMS, promoting overall well-being and comfort during this time.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds help alleviate premenstrual syndrome by reducing prostaglandin levels, which contribute to menstrual cramps and pain.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate premenstrual syndrome symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, and cramps.
- Terpinen-4-ol: As a monoterpene, terpinen-4-ol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate premenstrual syndrome symptoms such as menstrual cramps, bloating, and mood swings.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Buds: The buds of the plant are sometimes used, as they contain a higher concentration of active compounds than the leaves and stems, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of PMS.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for premenstrual syndrome.
- Infuse dried zingiber officinale in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a 1:5 ratio for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Add a preservative such as phenonip at a 2% dosage to prevent spoilage of the cream.
- Whip the infused oil with a small amount of beeswax at a 1:1 ratio to create a stable emulsion.
- Dispense the herbal zingiber officinale cream into small jars for storage and use within 6 months.
9. Avena sativa
Avena sativa, also known as oats, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its soothing and calming effects on the nervous system.
The herb is rich in beta-sitosterol, a natural plant sterol that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and mood swings associated with PMS.
Additionally, Avena sativa creams may also help to regulate hormones and reduce stress, promoting a sense of balance and calmness, making it a popular natural remedy for women experiencing premenstrual syndrome.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Avena sativa creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Fenestralactone: Fenestralactone, a triterpene saponin, helps with premenstrual syndrome by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can alleviate symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia.
- Avenacoside: Avenacoside, a type of flavonoid glycoside, has been shown to have anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, and breast tenderness associated with premenstrual syndrome.
- Oleuropein: Oleuropein, a phenolic compound, has been found to have anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings associated with premenstrual syndrome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of oats used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Seeds: They contain a high concentration of isocitric acid, which is believed to help alleviate symptoms of PMS.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate PMS symptoms.
- Roots: They are a good source of saponins, which may help to reduce inflammation and improve hormone balance, alleviating PMS symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oats for premenstrual syndrome.
- Infuse 2 cups of dried avena sativa in 4 cups of carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 2-4 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove solids.
- Mix the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler over low heat for 10-15 minutes until the beeswax and shea butter melt.
- Pour the mixture into small glass jars and let it cool and solidify for at least 30 minutes.
10. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, creams helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
These properties help to soothe and calm the body, reducing symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, and cramps. The cream's anti-inflammatory effects can also help to regulate hormonal imbalances, which are a common contributor to PMS symptoms.
Additionally, Camellia sinensis cream's natural astringent properties can help to balance the skin and reduce water retention, leading to a reduction in bloating and swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis creams that help with premenstrual syndrome.
- Theaflavins: These polyphenolic compounds in Camellia sinensis help alleviate PMS symptoms by acting as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress associated with PMS.
- Catechins: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), found in Camellia sinensis, may help alleviate PMS symptoms by regulating hormonal balance, reducing prostaglandin production, and exerting anti-anxiety and anti-depressive effects.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Camellia sinensis, may help alleviate PMS symptoms by reducing inflammation, modulating hormonal balance, and exerting anti-anxiety and anti-depressive effects, making it a potential natural remedy for PMS relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make creams for premenstrual syndrome.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to soothe and calm the skin.
- Flowers: They are used because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as bloating and cramps.
- Seeds: They are used due to their high content of essential fatty acids, which can help to nourish and moisturize the skin, reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as dryness and itchiness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for premenstrual syndrome.
- Harvest 200g of dried camellia sinensis leaves and sift them through a fine mesh to remove impurities.
- Combine 200g of the sifted camellia sinensis leaves with 500ml of boiling water in a large glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 20-30 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth to extract the liquid.
- Mix 50g of beeswax and 25g of shea butter with 100ml of the camellia sinensis liquid in a double boiler.
- Whisk the mixture until it thickens then pour it into glass jars for storage and use.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for premenstrual syndrome?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with premenstrual syndrome is a blend of Clary Sage, Lavender, and Peppermint.
Clary Sage is known for its calming effects and ability to reduce anxiety and cramping, while Lavender soothes emotional distress and promotes relaxation. Peppermint adds a cooling effect, reducing inflammation and easing digestive issues often associated with PMS. Applying these creams topically can help alleviate symptoms, promote hormonal balance, and provide much-needed relief during the premenstrual phase.
Regular use can also lead to improved overall well-being.
What ailments similar to premenstrual syndrome are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to premenstrual syndrome that are treated with herbal creams are menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
Other conditions that may be alleviated by herbal creams include menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, and migraines. Herbal ingredients like valerian root, chamomile, and lavender have a calming effect on the body, while others like ginger and turmeric provide anti-inflammatory relief.
These natural ingredients can help to reduce symptoms and promote relaxation without the side effects of pharmaceutical treatments.