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Natural Remedies for Premenstrual Depression Disorder

Depression is often associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In some cases, premenstrual depression disorder is involved. The condition may be treated with drugs such as Prozac. However, there are also a number of natural treatments for PMS-related depression, whether it is actually part of a depressive disorder.

  1. St. John's Wort

    • St. John's wort is one of the most popular natural treatments for depression and anxiety and is also effective for alleviating premenstrual depressive disorder, according to New York Times Health research. The pill must be taken daily for 4 to 6 weeks to become therapeutically helpful.

    Phototherapy

    • Phototherapy is light therapy that can help with premenstrual depressive disorder and other depression conditions, such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The therapy uses fluorescent light 50 times brighter than most lights, but it may have side effects such as headaches and irritability.

    Vitamins

    • Vitamins are good in most attempts to promote good health, and PMS-related depression is no exception, according to New York Times Health. Vitamin B6 pills and increasing intake of related foods such as oily fish and avocado may help depression.

    Diet and Exercise

    • Eating small meals with low salt and minimal processed sugars and carbohydrates can help combat premenstrual depression, according to New York Times Health. In addition, regular exercise promotes production the production of endorphins, a natural antidepressant.

    Acupuncture and Yoga

    • While formal studies have not proven whether acupuncture (placing small needles at pressure points on the body) and yoga are beneficial to alleviating premenstrual depression disorder, some people swear by these natural remedies for promoting a better balanced mood.

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