Complementary Therapies
 Some complementary therapies are available on the NHS but most must be paid for privately. These practices are holistic: they don't treat just the PMS, but the whole woman. As well as providing specific individual treatments, they will expect you to look at all aspects of your life, and will give advice on nutrition, lifestyle, stress reduction and exercise. See the Resources section for contact information.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine is based on the belief that energy in the body flows along channels. When these are blocked the balance of Yin and Yang in the body is disturbed, and ill-health results. Chinese medicine has two main strands: acupuncture and herbalism. Acupuncture unblocks the channels with the use of needles in particular points in the body. Chinese herbalism also works on the energy flows in the body.
|
|
Homeopathy
Homeopathy uses microscopic quantities of naturally occurring substances from plants and animals. Although most homeopaths work privately, there are five NHS homeopathic hospitals in the UK. You will need a letter of referral from a GP to attend these.
Homeopathic remedies are available over the counter, but there are many different remedies which could be used for PMS, and it is best to get advice from a homeopath to find the best remedies for individual circumstances.
Naturopathy
Naturopathy uses nutrition and diet and body manipulation to help the body heal itself.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy heals using essential oils derived from the bark, leaves, seeds, flowers or roots of plants. The oils can be mixed with a base oil and massaged into the skin, vaporised in the bath or in an essential oil burner or given as compresses, enemas or douches.
Some oils can be harmful so it's best to consult a practitioner.
Herbalism
Many women have found herbal preparations effective in clearing or reducing premenstrual symptoms. As with other complementary therapies, herbs are most effective when taken as part of a general programme of improving your well being. This means adopting a wholesome diet, exercising regularly, and looking for ways to reduce stress.
Herbs can be taken as teas, tinctures or tablets and are available from health food stores, herbalists or you can grow them yourself. Herbal teas are prepared from dried herbs steeped for 10 minutes in freshly boiled water. Usually a teaspoon of dried herb is used per cup of boiling water. Tinctures must be bought from a herbalist.
|
