Three in four women experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) at least once in their lifetime, and as many as 150 physical and behavioral symptoms have been associated with it. Of course, you may already be familiar with the common symptoms like water retention and bloating, soreness, mood swings, cravings… among many others.
PMS may be our body’s instinctive way of signaling hormonal fluctuations and menstruation, but as beautiful as Mother Nature is, we can’t say we look forward to the symptoms that come with it. Thankfully, there are natural remedies that can help calm PMS. One of our favorites? Tea! Read on to discover our three favorite herbal teas that help combat some of our worst enemies.
1. To target acne and inflammation, drink green tea (Camellia sinensis)
The benefits of green tea are endless (read: drink it regularly, even when you’re not menstruating) and this list goes to show the incredible effects it can have on your overall health and wellbeing. We particularly love green tea for its antioxidant property EGCG, a powerful anti-inflammatory to alleviate hormonal breakouts and help clear your skin.
Bonus pairing: Rael’s effective Acne Healing Patches
Not only is ginger proven to relieve inflammation and pain, it can also relieve nausea and upset stomach, making it the perfect all-inclusive remedy for menstrual cramping.
2. When you’re cramping and sore, go for ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Not only is ginger proven to relieve inflammation and pain (in fact, studies show how ginger can be just as effective as ibuprofen!), it can also relieve nausea and upset stomach, making it the perfect all-inclusive remedy for menstrual cramping. Our go-to recipe: Cut up a fresh ginger root (available at most grocery stores), soak in hot water for 5-10 minutes, add honey to taste and, voilà! You’ve got yourself a delicious homemade ginger tea.
Bonus pairing: Rael’s natural Herbal Heating Patch
3. Ease bloat and clear your mind with peppermint (Mentha × piperita)
Peppermint’s active ingredient is menthol which attributes its minty freshness, but there’s more to it than just gum and toothpaste. Found to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, peppermint not only aids digestion and bloat, it can also help alleviate headaches and migraines. So the next time you feel foggy, inside-out, try steeping some peppermint tea before reaching inside your medicine cabinet.
Bonus pairing: Traditional Medicinals Organic Peppermint Herbal Leaf Tea
Raspberry leaf contains what’s known as “fragine,” an alkaloid known to strengthen muscle fibers in the pelvic region and stabilize hormones. The result? A more balanced menstrual flow.
4. If your flow’s feeling heavy, reach for raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus)
Raspberry leaf tea is exactly that—leaves of red raspberries steeped in hot water. While the concoction may not sound revolutionary (we sure weren’t convinced at first), this might pique your interest: Raspberry leaf contains what’s known as “fragine,” an alkaloid known to strengthen muscle fibers in the pelvic region and stabilize hormones. The result? A more balanced menstrual flow. Plus, raspberry leaf can help relieve cramps. A win-win!
Bonus pairing: Rael's protective Period Panties