Preparedness Herbs For Females
I was gently reminded this morning by my loving husband to do a little reaserch on various herbs of importance specifically for us girls. in addition to having feminine supplies, it is also important to look at the complete potential scenrio. If you suffer from PMS or Mentrual Cramps now, you will propably still have them during the time of disaster. So it must be planned for. In addition to your typical Advil or other pain killer, you should also invest in some wholistic pain relief.
Here is a article that I found extremely informative. Read and apply the information to your families survival kit.
Menstrual Cramps: An Herbal Approach (November, 2003) by Tori Hudson, N.D. Professor, NCNM & Bastyr University, and Medical Director, A Woman’s Time in Portland, OR Overview Menstrual cramps are one of the most common problems that women face, affecting over 50% of menstruating women. Dysmenorrhea is best classified as primary or secondary. In primary dysmenorrhea, painful menstrual cramps occur that have nothing to do with any physical abnormalities or identifiable pelvic disease. Secondary dysmenorrhea refers to painful menstrual cramps due to some specific pelvic abnormal condition such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, adhesions, ovarian cysts, congenital malformations, narrowing of the cervical opening, polyps or uterine fibroids. Treatment for secondary dysmenorrhea is directed to treating the underlying cause of the condition. The treatment of pain is similar with both primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. More than 50% of women with menstrual cramps also have additional symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, lower backache, and headache. Women with severe cases may also become dizzy or even faint. The symptoms may last from a few hours to one day, but seldom last longer than two to three days. Some women have more congestive symptoms that are characterized by a dull aching in the low back and pelvis, bloating and weight gain, along with some systemic symptoms, including breast tenderness, headaches and irritability. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) Valerian has been primarily used traditionally as a sedative and antispasmodic for the treatment of anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and a diverse array of conditions associated with pain. Valerian contains an important class of compounds called valepotriates and valeric acid which are found exclusively in this perennial plant native to North America and Europe. It is not difficult to see how Valerian would help to relieve pain, anxiety, and insomnia because both valepotriates and valeric acid are capable of binding to the same receptors in the brain as Valium. Although Valerian has not been scientifically studied for menstrual cramps, it has been shown to relax the spasmodic contractions of intestinal muscles. Both the uterus and intestines are smooth muscles. In clinical practice, Valerian is usually a significant feature of an alternative medicine approach to painful menstruation. The administration of Valerian may make you tired and sleepy, so it is advisable to stay home and rest or fall asleep. Dose: Valerian tincture: 1 tsp. every 3-4 hours as needed for pain. Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) & Black Haw (Viburnum prunifolium) Both of these species of Viburnum have been mentioned repeatedly, in traditional botanical reference books, as uterine relaxants and general antispasmodics. They have been used mainly for menstrual cramps, bearing-down uterine pains, and chronic uterine and ovarian pains. Animal studies have confirmed that both species have an antispasmodic effect on the uterus. Laboratory studies on human uterine tissue have also confirmed that Viburnum prunifolium exhibits a relaxant effect on the uterine tissue. When menstrual pains are of either a congestive or spasmodic nature, and include low back pains, especially if the pains radiate down the thighs, there is no better herbal choice than Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus).
The root bark of Black Haw (Viburnum prunifolium) is reported to contain several active constituents that are uterine relaxants, one of which is scopoletin. Black Haw has been historically used as a specific medicine for menstrual cramps with severe low back pain and bearing-down pelvic pains. For menstrual pains associated with a profuse menstrual flow and intermittent severe pains, Black Haw would probably be a more specific choice than Cramp Bark. Dose: Cramp Bark Tincture: 1/2 tsp every 2-3 hours. Dose: Black Haw Tincture: 1/4 tsp every 2-4 hours. Caution: Both species should be avoided during pregnancy except in the hands of an experienced herbal practitioner. Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) Black Cohosh has gained increased attention in the last few years largely as an herb for the relief of menopause symptoms. However, when I was first studying botanical medicine, this herb was known more for its relaxant affect on the uterus in dysmenorrhea, false labor pains, and in threatened miscarriage. It can be helpful in both congestive and spasmodic menstrual cramps of even a severe nature. If PMS irritability and anxiety, delayed or irregular menstrual cycles, or scanty flow, are associated with the menses, then Black Cohosh would particlularly be indicated for the menstrual cramps. Dose: Tincture: 1/4 tsp – 1/2 tsp every 2-4 hours. Caution: Avoid during pregnancy except in the hands of a trained herbal practitioner. Additional considerations Although we typically think of menstrual cramps as a spasmodic condition, some women experience pain that is more related to pelvic congestion, which can be exacerbated by constipation, poor pelvic circulation, and uterine fibroids. Mild diuretics can be helpful in relieving some of the congestion. Consider Dandelion leaf, Red Clover and Parsley. Digestive tonics such as Yellow Dock, Dandelion root, Hops and Gentian can encourage better digestion and intestinal elimination. Circulatory tonics such as Rosemary and Ginger root can improve blood flow to the pelvis. Other milder antispasmodic or sedative herbs can also be helpful, especially if the menstrual cramps are mild. Chamomile, Hops, Skullcap can be used in combination with any of the other herbs.
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Additionally the website WellnessMama.com offers this information on the same subject....
Maca- A tuber in the radish family that has a history of boosting hormone production and libido. Many women notice less PMS, increased fertility, and improved skin while men notice increased sperm production, libido and better sleep. Maca is also high in minerals and essential fatty acids, making it great for hormones. It is available in powder form (least expensive option) or in capsules. Maca should be discontinued during pregnancy. The effects of Maca are somewhat cumulative, so the best results are seen after 3-5 weeks of taking Maca regularly.
Magnesium- Magnesium supports hundreds of reactions in the body and often contributes to better sleep (which is great for hormones!). There are several effective forms of Magnesium: In powder form with a product like Natural Calm so that you can vary your dose and work up slowly, ionic liquid form can be added to food and drinks and dose can be worked up slowly,or transdermal form by using Magnesium oil applied to skin. This is often the most effective option for those with damaged digestive tract or severe deficiency. Magnesium often greatly helps both PMS symptoms and menstrual cramping.
Vitamin D- A pre-hormone is supportive of hormone function. Best obtained from the sun if possible, or from a D3 supplement or Fermented Cod Liver Oil (what I do in the winter). Make sure not to get too much, and optimally, get Serum Vitamin D levels checked to monitor levels.
Fermented Cod Liver Oil- Provides many of the necessary building blocks for hormone production including Vitamins A, D, and K. It also is a great source of Omega-3s and beneficial fats.
Gelatin is a great source of calcium, magnesium and phosphate. It supports hormone production and digestive health and helps sooth inflammation, especially in joints. We use Great Lakes Kosher as I was able to verify with the company that it is sourced from grass-fed, humanely raised cows, and as such is higher in nutrients.
Vitex/Chaste Tree Berry- Nourishes the pituitary gland and helps lengthen the luteal phase. It lowers prolactin and raises progesterone. For some women, this alone will improve symptoms.
Natural Progesterone Cream- PMS and menstrual troubles are often linked to specific hormone imbalances. Especially for those with short cycles or short second phase of their cycle (ovulation through start of menses), progesterone can be the issue. I’ve seen people add only natural progesterone cream and see symptoms greatly reduce. If you do use progesterone cream, do you own research, make sure you have a good brand that is soy-free and only use for the second half of your cycle (ovulation through menses).
Red Raspberry Leaf- A well know fertility herb that is also helpful in reducing PMS and cramping. It has a high nutrient profile and is especially high in calcium and is a uterine tonic. It is available in capsule form, but makes an excellent hot or cold tea.
