10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Premenstrual Syndrome

Herbal decoctions for premenstrual syndrome are a natural and effective way to alleviate the symptoms associated with PMS.

By steeping herbs in hot water, these decoctions release bioactive compounds that help to regulate hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation. Examples of herbal decoctions that help with PMS include chasteberry tea, which helps to balance estrogen levels and reduce mood swings; ginger tea, which eases cramps and bloating; and passionflower tea, which promotes calmness and reduces anxiety.

By incorporating these decoctions into their daily routine, women can experience improved mental clarity, reduced physical discomfort, and a overall better quality of life during the premenstrual phase.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for premenstrual syndrome, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Crataegus monogyna

Hawthorn decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it effectively alleviates symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings.

The flavonoids present in hawthorn have been shown to relax the uterine muscles, reducing cramps and spasms. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce water retention, easing bloating and discomfort.

Furthermore, hawthorn's adaptogenic properties can help to calm the nervous system, promoting a sense of balance and relaxation, which is particularly beneficial during this time of hormonal fluctuations.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna decoctions that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Crataegus monogyna decoctions may help reduce PMS symptoms by acting as estrogen modulators and anti-inflammatory agents, thus alleviating symptoms such as bloating and mood swings.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, including ursolic acid, found in Crataegus monogyna may help alleviate PMS symptoms by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could reduce symptoms such as breast tenderness and mood disturbances.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Crataegus monogyna decoctions may help alleviate PMS symptoms by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could reduce symptoms such as mood swings and fatigue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of flavonoids and tannins, which may help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
• Fruits: They are used because they contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help regulate hormonal imbalances associated with premenstrual syndrome.
• Buds: They are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other premenstrual syndrome symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Harvest 1-2 kg of the shrub's branches and leaves in late summer or early autumn.
2. Dry the harvested material in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks.
3. Grind 20-30 grams of dried material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Combine the powdered material with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain and discard the solids.

2. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains a unique combination of flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins that work synergistically to alleviate symptoms.

The herb's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce breast tenderness and swelling, while its sedative effects calm anxiety and irritability. Additionally, maypop's ability to regulate serotonin levels helps to stabilize mood swings and promotes a sense of relaxation and well-being.

As a result, maypop decoctions can provide natural relief from the discomforts of PMS, allowing women to feel more balanced and empowered throughout their menstrual cycles.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help with premenstrual syndrome by exhibiting anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative properties, which can alleviate symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia.
• Isoferulic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-anxiety and sedative effects, which can help reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including anxiety, irritability, and restlessness.
• Harmane: This indole alkaloid has a sedative effect and can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and insomnia associated with premenstrual syndrome by promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: Used due to their high content of flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides, which provide anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: Utilized for their rich source of passifloric acid, which exhibits sedative and antispasmodic properties, helping to alleviate PMS symptoms.
• Fruits: Employed for their high concentration of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, which contribute to stress relief and mood stabilization.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Gather 2-3 ounces of dried passiflora incarnata flowers and store them in an airtight container.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 2 cups of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic container.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds from the passiflora incarnata.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
5. Allow the decoction to cool before storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

3. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety, stress, and irritability that often accompany PMS symptoms.

The sedative properties of valerian root also help to promote relaxation, which can ease menstrual cramps and mood swings.

Additionally, valerian's antispasmodic effects may help alleviate bloating, breast tenderness, and other physical discomforts associated with premenstrual syndrome, providing a sense of relief and well-being for women who experience these symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Isovaleric acid: This short-chain fatty acid has sedative and anxiolytic properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and restlessness commonly associated with premenstrual syndrome.
• Valerenic acid: As a GABA receptor agonist, valerenic acid can enhance the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and helping to regulate mood swings.
• Valeranone: A non-steroidal estrogenic compound, valeranone may help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome by modulating estrogen levels and reducing the severity of premenstrual mood changes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Roots: Valerian roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of valerenic acid and valeranone, which have a sedative effect that helps reduce anxiety and stress associated with PMS.
• Leaves: Valerian leaves are used in some herbal decoctions as they also contain valerenic acid and other compounds that contribute to the plant's sedative properties.
• Fruits: Some herbal preparations include valerian fruits, which contain a lower concentration of sedative compounds but still contribute to the overall effect of the decoction.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Dry 1 teaspoon of valeriana officinalis root in a low-temperature oven for 2 hours at 150 degrees fahrenheit.
2. Chop 2 teaspoons of dried valeriana officinalis root into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
3. Combine 2 teaspoons of chopped valeriana officinalis root with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the valeriana officinalis root mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow for optimal extraction of active compounds.
5. Strain the valeriana officinalis decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a glass container to remove solids.

4. Tilia x europaea

Lime decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because of its natural ability to balance hormonal fluctuations.

The decoction's antimicrobial properties can reduce inflammation, alleviating symptoms such as breast tenderness and mood swings. Additionally, the antioxidant-rich lime extract can help regulate serotonin levels, alleviating anxiety and depression often associated with PMS.

By promoting relaxation and reducing physical discomfort, herbal lime decoctions can provide relief from a range of premenstrual symptoms, allowing women to feel more comfortable and confident throughout their menstrual cycle.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia x europaea decoctions that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as anxiety, mood swings, and physical discomfort.
• Triterpenoids: This triterpenoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the severity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, and mood changes.
• Tiliaflavone: Tiliaflavone has a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and insomnia often associated with premenstrual syndrome.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lime used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, which help alleviate symptoms of PMS.
• Buds: They are used for their calming effects, which can help reduce anxiety and emotional symptoms associated with PMS.
• Flowers: They are used for their mild sedative and antidepressant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, irritability, and mood swings associated with PMS.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lime for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Gather 50g of dried tilia x europaea flowers and 1 liter of water for the decoction.
2. Combine the flowers with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
5. Allow the decoction to cool before serving in doses of 20-50ml as needed.

5. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress that often accompany PMS symptoms.

The herb's flavonoids also help to regulate hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness. Additionally, lemon balm decoctions have been shown to ease cramps and promote relaxation, helping to alleviate physical discomfort associated with PMS.

Overall, it provides a natural and soothing approach to managing premenstrual symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps alleviate PMS symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the activity of neurotransmitters involved in stress and mood regulation.
• Glycosides: These compounds have a sedative effect, which helps to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety and irritability commonly experienced during PMS.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has a relaxing effect, which may help reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia associated with PMS by modulating the activity of GABA receptors in the brain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: Melissa officinalis leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of apigenin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
• Flowers: Melissa officinalis flowers are used to make teas and infusions that can help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as anxiety and mood swings, due to their calming and sedative effects.
• Roots: Melissa officinalis roots are used to make decoctions that can help reduce menstrual cramps and other symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Harvest 20g of melissa officinalis leaves and flowers for a standard dose of decoction.
2. Rinse the harvested melissa officinalis in cold running water for 2 minutes to remove impurities.
3. Combine the rinsed melissa officinalis with 1 liter of boiling water in a large pot.
4. Simmer the mixture at 95 to 99 degrees celsius for 5 to 10 minutes to extract active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or fine mesh to remove the melissa officinalis solids.

6. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms such as breast tenderness, mood swings, and bloating associated with PMS.

The decoction's flavonoids and terpenes work together to relax the uterine muscles, reducing cramps and discomfort.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce water retention and alleviate feelings of fatigue, leaving women feeling more balanced and prepared for their menstrual cycle.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate premenstrual syndrome symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms like mood swings and headaches.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba have been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with premenstrual syndrome, thereby alleviating symptoms like anxiety and depression.
• Bilobalide: Bilobalide has been found to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which can help alleviate premenstrual syndrome symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, and depression by reducing inflammation and promoting neural health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are commonly used due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which helps alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are utilized for their potential to balance hormonal fluctuations, which can contribute to premenstrual syndrome symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers of Ginkgo biloba are sometimes used in decoctions due to their possible influence on hormonal regulation and relief from premenstrual symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Gather 5-10 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and transfer them to a clean glass container.
2. Combine the ginkgo biloba leaves with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-30 minutes or until the liquid is reduced to 250 milliliters.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean container to remove solids.
5. Allow the decoction to cool before transferring it to a dark-tinted glass bottle for storage.

7. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains compounds that have a positive effect on hormone regulation, reducing symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings.

The antioxidants present in rosemary also help to alleviate cramps and spasms by relaxing the uterine muscles. Additionally, rosemary's anti-inflammatory properties can reduce water retention, leading to a decrease in overall discomfort associated with PMS.

Overall, incorporating herbal rosemary decoctions into one's routine may provide natural relief from premenstrual syndrome symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as mood swings and breast tenderness, by blocking the production of prostaglandins.
• Carnosic acid: A diterpenoid compound found in rosemary, carnosic acid exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as anxiety and fatigue.
• Bornyl acetate: A monoterpenoid compound, bornyl acetate has been shown to have a sedative effect, which may help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as anxiety and insomnia.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, which can help reduce symptoms of PMS such as anxiety and bloating.
• Flowers: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of PMS like cramps and mood swings.
• Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid, a compound with antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate PMS symptoms such as cramps and bloating.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Weigh 30 grams of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and chop them finely to release their oils.
2. Combine the chopped leaves with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a glass container.
3. Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
5. Discard the solids and store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

8. Hypericum perforatum

St john's wort decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains hyperforin, a compound that has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and emotional well-being.

As the symptoms of PMS can include irritability, anxiety, and depression, st john's wort may help to alleviate these feelings by increasing levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine in the brain.

Additionally, its antioxidant properties may also help to reduce inflammation and other physical symptoms associated with PMS.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: Acts as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, helping to regulate mood and alleviate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, such as anxiety and depression.
• Quercetin: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome like bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings.
• Kaempferol: Demonstrates estrogenic activity, which can help balance hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as mood swings, breast tenderness, and irritability.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate PMS symptoms.
• Flowers: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that have a balancing effect on hormonal changes associated with PMS.
• Roots: They are a source of hypericin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce PMS symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Gather 25-50 grams of fresh or dried flowers and leaves of hypericum perforatum for a standard decoction.
2. Chop the gathered herbs into smaller pieces to release their active compounds for better extraction.
3. Combine the chopped herbs with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow for efficient extraction of active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

9. Cichorium intybus

Chicory decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it contains flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate symptoms such as bloating and breast tenderness.

The decoction's ability to stimulate digestion and reduce water retention also helps to alleviate cramps and mood swings associated with PMS. Additionally, chicory's adaptogenic properties help the body adapt to hormonal fluctuations, reducing stress and anxiety often experienced during this time.

As a result, chicory decoctions can provide natural relief from PMS symptoms, promoting overall well-being during the menstrual cycle.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cichorium intybus decoctions that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Inulin: A type of fructan, inulin helps alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome by regulating blood sugar levels and promoting digestion, which can help reduce bloating and other symptoms associated with PMS.
• Apigenin: A flavonoid with anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, apigenin can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with PMS by interacting with GABA receptors in the brain and modulating the body's response to stress.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, luteolin can help reduce symptoms of PMS by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to symptoms such as mood swings and breast tenderness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chicory used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
• Roots: Contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
• Flowers: Used as a diuretic, which can help alleviate bloating and water retention associated with premenstrual syndrome.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chicory for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh cichorium intybus leaves and flowers for decoction.
2. Dry the harvested cichorium intybus in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 cup of dried cichorium intybus with 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
4. Boil the cichorium intybus mixture for 5-7 minutes then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Strain the cichorium intybus decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve after 10 minutes.

10. Artemisia absinthium

Wormwood decoctions helps with premenstrual syndrome because it has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of PMS, such as bloating, breast tenderness, and mood swings.

The herb's anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties may help to reduce water retention and relieve cramping. Additionally, wormwood is believed to have a balancing effect on hormones, which can help to regulate menstrual cycles and ease symptoms of anxiety and depression commonly associated with PMS.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to provide relief from the discomforts of premenstrual syndrome.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium decoctions that help with premenstrual syndrome.

• Thujone: Thujone has anxiolytic and sedative properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and mood swings associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
• Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce symptoms of bloating, breast tenderness, and other physical discomforts experienced during PMS.
• Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, stress, and mood swings associated with PMS.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make decoctions for premenstrual syndrome.

• Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, particularly thujone, which may help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
• Roots: The roots of Artemisia absinthium are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome.
• Stems: The stems of Artemisia absinthium contain essential oils and flavonoids that may help regulate hormones and alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for premenstrual syndrome.

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers from a trusted herbal source.
2. Crush the herb using a mortar and pestle to release its active constituents into a fine powder.
3. Combine the crushed herb with 1 quart of boiling water to create a decoction.
4. Allow the decoction to steep for 10 to 15 minutes to release the herb's active properties into the water.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the solids from the liquid.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for premenstrual syndrome?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with premenstrual syndrome is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Chamomile.

Peppermint helps to soothe digestive issues and reduce nausea, while Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties alleviate cramps and bloating. Chamomile calms the mind and body, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Another beneficial addition is the decoction of Red Clover, which balances hormonal fluctuations and eases symptoms of PMS.

These herbal combinations work synergistically to alleviate PMS symptoms, promoting a smoother and more comfortable menstrual cycle.

What ailments similar to premenstrual syndrome are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to premenstrual syndrome that are treated with herbal decoctions are menopausal symptoms, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Herbal remedies such as red clover, black cohosh, and dong quai help alleviate hot flashes and night sweats associated with menopause. Decoctions of turmeric, ginger, and chamomile may reduce inflammation and cramping in endometriosis sufferers, while herbs like chasteberry and vitex may regulate hormones and improve symptoms in PCOS patients.

These natural remedies offer a holistic approach to managing women's health issues.