Cathy Burkemper
Natural Herbal Help For PMS or High Cholesterol
Q: Do you have any suggestions for PMS? About one week prior to starting my period, I get very anxious, bloated and have extremely tender breasts. What can I do?
A: There are a lot of choices when it comes to PMS. Hormonal changes can affect our bodies in many different ways. Vitex, or Chaste Tree Berry, is excellent in helping relieve symptoms such as irritability, mood changes, headache, bloating and breast tenderness. Adding 200 mg. of magnesium per day and 50 mg. of B6 will also help minimize your symptoms.
Q: I have elevated cholesterol and would really like to try something natural to lower it before the doctor puts me on a medication. What do you suggest?
A: Exercise and diet, of course, are going to be one of my first suggestions. The Omega 3’s in fish oil are also very effective in lowering cholesterol. Make sure your fish oil is a high quality one that contains EPA/DHA. There is an Ayurvedic medicine called “Guggul” which has been used for over 2,500 years. Guggul lowers LDL (the bad cholesterol) and triglycerides and actually raises the HDL (the good cholesterol). Studies have shown that by using supplementation with guggul alone, blood cholesterol levels have been reduced by 20% or more. Look for a supplement that is “standardized” for guggulsterone content. By taking the guggul combined with fish oil, you should significantly lower your numbers.
This herb information is for health education purposes only. It is not intended to replace the services of licensed health practitioners. Consult with a physician for any condition that requires professional care.
Do you have questions about herbs or vitamins? Send them to Cathy Burkemper, CNHP and Certified Herbalist. Write to: Herbs & More, 16021 Manchester Rd., Ellisville, MO 63011. www.morethanherbsonline.com