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Premenstrual Syndrome

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a cluster of physical and emotional symptoms - including bloating, breast tenderness, mood changes, and fatigue - that appear in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and resolve with menstruation.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily functioning, if you suspect premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or if symptoms do not improve after three months of lifestyle changes.

Natural remedies · 4

Tap any remedy for the full how-to and citation.

How we rate evidence▾

Strong - Multiple randomised controlled trials or systematic reviews with consistent positive outcomes.

Moderate - At least one RCT or several high-quality observational studies with plausible mechanisms.

Limited - Small trials, animal studies, or traditional use with limited human clinical evidence.

Sources link directly to PubMed, Cochrane Reviews, or NCCIH.

Vitex (Chasteberry / Vitex agnus-castus)

ingestible
Csupor et al. meta-analysis of 3 double-blind RCTs (n=520): women taking standardised VAC extract were 2.57 times more likely to achieve symptom remission vs placebo (95% CI 1.52-4.35). PMID 31780016.
$15-$40 per month

Magnesium Glycinate or Oxide

ingestible
Walker et al. (n=38) double-blind crossover RCT: 200 mg magnesium oxide daily for 2 cycles produced significantly greater reduction in PMS-H symptoms (weight gain, bloating, breast tenderness, swelling) vs placebo in cycle 2 (p=0.009). PMID 9861593.
$10-$25 per month

Evening Primrose Oil

ingestible
Budeiri et al. systematic review of 7 placebo-controlled trials: the two most methodologically rigorous studies showed no beneficial effect; inconsistent scoring across trials prevented meta-analysis. Authors concluded EPO is of little value for PMS management. PMID 8721802.
$12-$30 per month

Calcium Supplementation

ingestible
Thys-Jacobs et al. (n=466) double-blind multicenter RCT: 1200 mg calcium carbonate daily for 3 cycles produced a 48% reduction in total PMS symptom scores vs 30% with placebo (p<0.001 by cycle 3), across all 4 symptom factors. PMID 9731851.
$5-$15 per month

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Remedy information is compiled from primary clinical sources including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Evidence ratings reflect published human trial data at time of writing. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.