Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that many women suffer before the start of their menstrual period. 

Some women get their periods without any signs of PMS or only very mild symptoms. For others, PMS symptoms may be so severe that it makes it hard to do everyday activities like going to work or school.

Physical symptoms of PMS can include: swollen or tender breasts, constipation or diarrhoea, bloating or a gassy feeling, cramping, headache or backache. (Please note Bach remedies do not work on physical symptoms)

Emotional symptoms of PMS include: irritability, feeling tired, tension or anxiety, depression, feelings of sadness, crying spells, mood swings. The sudden attack on emotional outbursts can be quite overwhelming and Bach Remedies can really help.

PMS symptoms witnessed by each woman is different hence it is important to not generalise and consider a standard or premix, which is made for all. Emotions felt by each woman are different hence one should always consider making a personalised mix for self. (Note: one must make a personal blend after consulting a BFRP (Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner)

Some of the remedies that can be of particular help

Impatiens: for irritability and impatience causing short temperedness. If you are generally an impatient person then this tendency is likely to be more exaggerated during this time. Impatiens can help you deal with the slowness of others which is irritating you.

Cherry Plum: for feelings of losing control. This remedy can help in times of actual loss of control, a sudden desire to scream. Cherry Plum can help settle the urge or need to yell.

Mustard: for depressive and sad feelings that descend like a dark cloud for no apparent reason. Women feel as if the life is without joy. Mustard can be wonderful relief and can drive this dark cloud away.

Hornbeam: for lethargy and desire to call off the day. Hornbeam can give some strength to work and look forward to the day with enthusiasm.

Walnut: for adjustment to change. Since this is transitional phase, walnut can act as a link breaker help body adjust to the change.

Crab Apple: for the need for clean-up.  Very often the physical bloating and facial eruptions can create a feeling of ugliness and feeling of being unclean. Crab apple can help appreciate the body and settle the feelings of being unclean.

Scleranthus: for mood swings. There are moments one is incredibly happy and excited, and a few minutes later they want to crawl into a corner and cry. Scleranthus can help balance the swinging mood.

Beech: for intolerance. During the premenstrual phase one may feel everyone is getting on the nerves and little mannerisms of others become increasingly annoying. Beech can help create an understanding and tolerance for people around.