Aunt Flo's Bitchiness Gots To Go!

Helpful Remedies That Helped Me, Sis...

Before I dive in, please consult your physician for medical advice, especially if you have any preexisting health issues. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns regarding your health. Most importantly, please check in with yourself to see if the info I provided within this post resonates with you.

Now, let's get into it! I know there's at least ONE reader that has experienced cramps that are so intense that it cancels all plans, period flow that axes any cute a** outfit showcasing, bloating that only allows for sweats and cuddling, OR PMS irritability that will light someone's a** on fire and then wanna be held the next moment. LOL... seriously, sis, I'm sure you can relate. I have tried most, if not all remedies I suggested. I'm a sucker for trying new health and wellness remedies (especially if they are natural or holistic) and I admit, I am a product junkie (don't judge me).

Here are various ways you can try to relieve your PMS symptoms ranging from prepping ahead of time to quick mood boosters tips. Please allow at least a month for these remedies to really take effect.

Prep

• Periods usually are in sync with the moon cycles. Keeping up with the moon cycles is one way you can keep track of your period and reduce the Aunt Flow pop-up surprise or just download a period calculator app on your phone. Depending on what’s going on in my life, my period comes on during the new moon or full moon.

• A few days before my cycle, I try to ensure I’m eating the best quality foods as much as possible. I notice the better I eat, the better I feel, prior, during, and after my period. Salads, veggies, little to no fried or sugary foods, reduce my caffeine such as coffee and artificial chocolate all have helped me.

• I know, I know, ladies... this can be challenging; especially, if you have those time of the month cravings. However, try healthier options to not only reduce those pesky period breakouts but even improve your period smell. Yes! Believe it or not, your period won’t smell as bad if you eat better!

• Try cacao or cocoa powder. Cacao contains antioxidants, magnesium, calcium, and so much more. No wonder it’s considered a superfood!

• In regards to prepping for cramps, some ladies choose over-the-counter pain relievers before and during their cycle; which I used to do. But now, I have been trying to be as natural as possible. Again, do your research and consult your doctor.

Diet & Nutrition

• Based on my research, a lot of women tend to be deficient in iron and magnesium. We have at least one girlfriend, family member, or an associate we know who carries around a cup of ice, munching on it throughout the day. (Craving ice is considered one telltale sign that you’re lacking iron and, or other minerals.)

• I try to opt for healthy fats such as avocado, coconut oil, salmon, and greens such as swiss chard, collards, or arugula. Nutrient-packed sea moss smoothies, sweet potatoes, and more so savory dishes not only help with my cravings but bloating and overall mood.

Eat Hot/Spicy Food/ Drink Hot Beverages

Spices that warm the body may help relieve cramps and are anti-inflammatory. Try incorporating cayenne, ginger, and, or cinnamon in your foods and beverages.

Herbal Remedies

• I haven’t tried these items, but there’s a new wave of PMS relief alternatives; ranging from wearing patches of supplements and, or herbs to ease discomfort

• Red raspberry leaf, fenugreek, ginger, peppermint, lemon balm, cramp bark, dandelion, marijuana, and herbal teas specifically labeled for PMS relief are worth a try.

• CBD and marijuana remedies are increasing in popularity. There are tons of studies that have proven it clears excess estrogen in your body and supports overall hormonal balance. BTW, Don’t sleep on weed lube— I can confirm it does help in the bedroom! I use a multi-purpose weed “lip gloss” that you can use as a vaginal moisturizer, lube, cramp relief, etc. that also tastes good! But, that topic is for another day LOL

Vitamins & Supplements

• I cannot stress It enough—know your bodies, ladies! During your annual exams, you can request to have your blood levels checked to determine your vitamin deficiencies.

• I take prenatal vitamins with DHA, Vitamin C, D3 and K2, B complex, iodine complex, an herbal tonic (a concoction of herbs that supports all of my systems), amongst other supplements. You don’t have to do what I do. I take extra doses of certain supplements because of MY body makeup.

Period cramp relief and mood boosters

My go-to old school-go-to-remedy drink is a mixture of warm milk and uncultured blackstrap molasses (you can sub the milk with water). I almost get instant relief! Molasses contains magnesium, B6, iron, phosphorous, calcium, potassium. It not only relieves cramps, but it lightens your flow!

Aromatherapy

• Diffuse essential. oils

• Pay a little more for the therapeutic grade essential oils; you can make oil blends, butters, etc. with them (remember to dilute with a carrier oil, such as almond, olive, grape seed, or coconut oil so your skin won’t get irritated; always test a small sample on an easily hidden part of your skin)

• Quick tip: you can purchase a roll-on glass container and mix blends of your fave essential oils to wear on your skin or take a whiff or two during those moments of the day you need a quick pick me up

• Lavender, peppermint, clary sage, ylang-ylang, clove, chamomile, rose are my go-tos

Epsom salt and magnesium

• Epsom salt and magnesium baths and oils; which can be purchased online or at your local health food stores

• Again, moderation is key!

• Skin is the largest organ of your body so the nutrients are almost immediately absorbed and go straight to the bloodstream.

• Magnesium helps relax the uterus muscles and reduces the hormones that cause period paid.

• In addition, it relieves PMS (moodiness, anxiety, headaches, bloat, breast pain).

Ice/Heat Method

• Use an Ice pack- it contracts muscles, blood vessels, and reduces the flow

• Heat or a heating pad- relaxes muscles and sometimes feels like it improves the blood circulation in your legs and uterus

• Hot or warm showers

• Quick tip: (PLEASE USE CAUTION!). try applying fresh steamed towels or hot stones wrapped in towels on various parts of your body that are hurting — BOMB AF; doing these remedies give you that pampered feeling you get from a spa session

• I used to always use heat until I tried ice pack therapy. Alternating between the two has done wonders for me!

• You can also purchase wearable ice packs and heating pads for those times you are on the go

Exercise

• Reduces stress

• Improves overall mood and blood flow

• Go for a brisk walk, lift moderate to heavyweights, do cardio or yoga

Ladies, don’t forget to comment below to tell me what you tried and how’d it go! Feel free to tell us your go-to PMS remedies...

XOXOXO,

Amethyst