PMS + Liver Qi Stagnation

It is common for some menstruating folks to experience pms right before their cycle. Some even 2 weeks before! According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, this is a sign of liver qi stagnation.

In TCM, the liver is in charge of the free flow of qi and stores blood. In Western medicine it is known for regulating hormone levels.

Stress, overwork, over consumption of alcohol and caffeine, a poor diet, and emotional stress can obstruct liver qi.

In the 2nd half of our cycle, yin ( estrogen) declines, and yang increases ( progesterone). You may notice a dramatic shift in mood and energy. The inability to adapt to the changes in hormones may result in premenstrual symptoms.

Symptoms of Liver qi Stagnation include:

A general feeling of being “stuck”
Feeling of tightness in the throat,
Pain or tightness under the ribs
Headaches ( especially when they are one sided)
Cramping
Emotional bursts
Bloating
Sighing

Overall, when qi and blood flow smoothly, we are more adaptive, our nervous system is easier to regulate and hormone levels adjust with ease lessening symptoms of liver qi stagnation

Here a few Tips to Nourish and Support Liver Qi:

• Diet: Avoid or reduce consumption of alcohol, greasy foods, processed foods, and caffeine.
• Mood stabilization: As progesterone increases, blood sugar levels rise. Make sure you’re getting enough fats and proteins in your diet to help stabilize blood sugar levels. 
• Poop regularly: Yup, I said it! Pooping is how we eliminate excess estrogen from the body and regulate our hormones. ALSO, Increase fibre intake especially during the 2nd half of your cycle. As progesterone increases, it slows down peristalsis in your gut hence why some folks experience constipation during the 2nd half of their cycle.
• Eat your greens: leafy greens, dandelion, turmeric, burdock, nettles, chrysanthemum, spirulina, mung beans are a few that are a few cleansing and detoxing herbs/foods that support liver health.
• Movement is essential: The liver energy easily stagnates due to stress, emotional stress, etc. Daily movements such as tai qi, dancing, walking, swimming for example help to support the flow of the liver qi and our overall mood.
• Prioritize sleep: Increase in progesterone the 2nd half of our cycle we may notice our energy begins to wane. This is a good time to rest and prioritize sleep.
• Acupressure points like Li 4 and Liv 3: Press and gently massage these points for healthy blood and qi circulation.
• Express yourself: Journal, dance, talk it out. Let the emotions flow!

I trust this finds you well!

Jenny Ahn

carissa