Premenstrual Syndrome(PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms that may include body aches, backache, headache, nausea, vomiting, loose stools or constipation, and mood swings. These symptoms arise 1-2 weeks before menses starts and usually end with the onset of menstrual flow. The symptoms differ for different females and at different ages.
Causes :
Excessive intake of oily and spicy foods, sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, unhygienic living conditions, improper diet, and psychological factors play a part in causing symptoms of PMS.
Symptoms
Abdominal pain and bloating
Breast tenderness
Fatigue and troubled sleep
Upset stomach
Constipation or diarrhea
Body ache and/or headache
Pain in the pubic region
Appetite changes or food cravings
Joint or muscle pain
Tension
Irritability
Mood swings
Crying spells
Anxiety or depression
View Of Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, PMS is known as Krichhraartava (Krichhra means ‘difficult’ and aartava means ‘menses’). Increased intake of oily, spicy, and hot foods, and overindulgence in physical activities, or a sedentary lifestyle causes impairment of Apana Vata (a sub-dosha of Vata or Air) as well as Pitta (Fire). Apana Vata is located in the lower pelvic region and is responsible for elimination of menstrual blood, stool, urine and reproductive fluids. Impaired Apana Vata and Pitta circulate in different channels of the body, causing various physical symptoms of PMS.
Additionally, Apana Vata might also cause aggravation of Prana Vata, a sub-dosha of Vata linked to anxiety, mood swings and depression like problems. Thus, emotional symptoms are also involved during those days.
Diet & Lifestyle Advice
Increase intake of water, preferably lukewarm water.
Have freshly prepared, warm, and easily digestible meals.
Include celery seeds, cumin seeds, cloves, fenugreek, asafetida, black pepper, coriander, and mint in cooking.
Avoid heavy, oily, sour, fried, and indigestible foods that can cause constipation and flatulence.
Avoid pumpkin, potato, cauliflower, cabbage, peas, mushrooms, and eggplant.
Have a regular body massage with sesame oil.
Exercise lightly each day, such as walking or stretching on a regular basis.
Have a good night’s sleep.
An ayurvedic treatment has wonderful results in Premenstrual Syndrome(PMS) disease. It may cure permanantly if patient follow the complete course of treatment with all diet, life-style & panchkarma realeted advises.