I also highly recommend acupuncture for any menstrual problems. Personally, I used to have terrible cramps, and then after the birth of my son noticed that I was also beginning to have some mood swings. Life is stressful enough... who needs any of that! I had gone to a couple of acupuncture sessions before and mentioned it the next time I went. My acupuncturist began to treat me for my cramping and mood swings that came with my menstruation. Within 2 months, I had the most perfect menstrual cycle. I was shocked. What was a menstrual cycle without cramps, bloating, etc? Try wonderful! I confess I actually enjoyed that time of the month for the first time in my life!

My acupuncturist explained that it was stagnant "chi," or energy in my abdomen area that was not allowing my menstruation to flow normally. Needless to say, I was very happy with the treatments.

If you struggle with menstrual cramping or even severe symptoms such as excess bleeding, not bleeding, terrible cramping, mood swings, and many others, I recommend acupuncture as the second thing you do (going to the doctor, being the first).

Here are also some herbal remedies that may be helpful-

(As a precaution, please do not use any of these herbs if you suspect you may be pregnant.)

Chinese Herbalism:
~ Ginger, Ginseng and cinnamon for cramps and/or little blood flow
~ Cornelian Asiatic Cherry for heavy menstrual bleeding

Herbalism:
~ A warm bath with an infusion of cramp bark for cramps
~ A cup of warm Thyme tea in the morning and evening for excessive blood flow.
~ Catnip tea for cramps and pain.
~ Peppermint tea for bloating and pain.

Aromatherapy:
~ Clary sage- for cramps and to help regulate hormones
~ Cypress- for cramps
~ Lavender- for cramps
~ Geranium rose - heavy menstrual bleeding
~ Fennel- to help regulate hormones

Use in bath, on skin mixed with a light carrier oil, or apply a few drops to your handkerchief to put in your pillow.

Flower Essences:
~ Mustard for depression.
~ Scleranthus for mood swings.
~ Olive for fatigue
~ Crab Apple for feelings of low self esteem.

Vitamins & Minerals:
~ Evening Primrose oil
~ Vitamins C, E, B6
~ Magnesium
~ Zinc
~ Iron