May 12, 2025 Saskia Michele

What is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)?

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a health condition that affects hormone balance and mental wellbeing before menstruation. Unlike regular PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), PMDD causes intense emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms that can interfere with daily life.

This condition affects around 5–8% of people who menstruate and is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. In this blog, we explain what PMDD is, the most common symptoms, possible causes, and how you can support your body naturally.

Holistic Treatments For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

PMDD vs PMS: What’s the Difference?

Both PMDD and PMS occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (after ovulation, before your period). But while PMS causes mild mood changes, PMDD is much more intense and can include:

Severe mood swings
Anxiety or panic attacks
Depression or hopelessness
Irritability or anger
Fatigue and low energy
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Physical symptoms like bloating, sore breasts, or headaches

If your symptoms are intense and disrupt your work, relationships, or daily tasks every month, you might be experiencing PMDD, not PMS.

What Causes PMDD?

PMDD is triggered by hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle, especially in people who are more sensitive to the rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone. These hormone shifts can affect brain chemicals like serotonin, which regulate mood.

Other possible root causes of PMDD include:

Hormonal imbalances
Gut health issues
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (especially magnesium, calcium, and B6)
Chronic stress or adrenal fatigue
Poor liver detoxification
Inflammation in the body

Natural and Holistic Remedies for PMDD

Many people choose to manage PMDD symptoms naturally, with holistic health approaches that focus on hormone balance, stress relief, and emotional wellbeing.

1. Diet and Nutrition

Eat more leafy greens, healthy fats (like avocado and flaxseeds), and lean protein
Reduce sugar, processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol
Stay hydrated and eat regularly to stabilise blood sugar
Try anti-inflammatory foods like berries, turmeric, and omega-3s

2. Herbal Remedies for PMDD

Femalite is a gentle herbal remedy specifically designed to balance female hormones and ease premenstrual discomfort. It contains herbs traditionally used to support mood, reduce bloating, and calm irritability.
Dong Quai, often called the "female ginseng," is a traditional Chinese herb known for promoting hormonal balance and easing menstrual cramps. It's especially helpful for those with irregular cycles or hormonal imbalances linked to PMDD.
Sceletium is a natural mood enhancer used for centuries to support emotional resilience and reduce anxiety. It works by calming the nervous system and supporting serotonin pathways, making it a helpful ally for those with mood-related PMDD symptoms.

3. Supplements for Hormonal Balance

Magnesium: Eases mood swings, headaches, and bloating
Vitamin B6: Supports serotonin production
Calcium: Reduces fatigue and food cravings
Vitamin D: Improves mood and hormone regulation

4. Mind-Body Wellness

Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing
Spend time in nature or do gentle daily movement
Track your cycle to notice patterns and prepare for PMDD days
Use journaling, therapy, or emotional healing techniques for support

Living with PMDD

PMDD can feel overwhelming, but it’s a real and diagnosable condition. If you’re experiencing severe premenstrual symptoms every month, don’t ignore them. With a natural and holistic approach, many people find long-term relief and regain control over their mental and physical health.

By listening to your body, balancing your hormones, and nurturing your nervous system, you can reduce PMDD symptoms and improve your quality of life — naturally.

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