Period Symptoms That No One Told You About

When it comes to menstruation, the well-known symptoms like cramps and mood swings are widely spoken about and often take the spotlight. However, there are several lesser-known symptoms that can significantly impact your well-being. Here are four surprising period symptoms and natural herbs that can help support your body and reduce their impact.

1. Bloating

Bloating is a common yet seldom-discussed symptom that many experience during their menstrual cycle. This uncomfortable sensation can make you feel puffy and heavy, often due to hormonal fluctuations that lead to water retention and gastrointestinal changes. One natural remedy that can offer relief is dandelion root tea.

Dandelion root acts as a natural diuretic, helping to reduce water retention and bloating. It has also been linked to supporting liver function, which can improve hormone metabolism and alleviate bloating.

This is why we include this little known root in our Over The Moon period support tea.

2. Disturbed Sleep

Disturbed sleep is another underreported symptom that can accompany menstruation. Hormonal changes, particularly the drop in progesterone, can lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Your body temperature actually increases during your period, and this can lead you to toss and turn, getting less deep sleep.  This lack of restful sleep can exacerbate other period symptoms, making you feel fatigued and irritable.

A cup of chamomile tea before bedtime can work wonders for improving sleep quality. Chamomile is well-known for its calming effects, helping to relax your mind and body, thus promoting better sleep. It contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in your brain, reducing insomnia and encouraging restful sleep.

Chamomile is the basis of Over The Moon PMS tea, and is also linked to naturally reducing sensations of pain, as studies have shown it has anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic benefits.

3. Hirsutism

For some, changes in hormones linked to our periods can lead to unwanted hair growth.  This is particularly common for those with PCOS, where testosterone levels are higher than normal, and hair can grow all over the body.

Spearmint tea has been shown to help reduce androgen levels in women, thereby potentially decreasing the severity of hirsutism. Regular consumption of spearmint tea can help balance hormones, reducing excessive hair growth over time.

It is a fantastic herb to support hormone balance, as well as making Over The Moon a delicious cup of tea to enjoy.

4. Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is another uncomfortable symptom that some women experience during their periods. It's totally normal and will pass in a few days.  Cause by prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause the muscles in the uterus and intestines to contract more than usual.  This leads to your uterus lining shedding but also to diarrhoea.

One effective way to not worsen this symptom, is to avoid caffeine. Caffeine can stimulate the intestines and worsen diarrhoea. Instead of your usual coffee, opt for caffeine-free herbal teas or water to stay hydrated.  We'd obviously suggest Over The Moon!

Understanding and addressing these lesser-known period symptoms can make a significant difference in your happiness on a monthly basis. Incorporating Over The Moon period support tea into your routine, along with avoiding caffeine, can hopefully bring a little more balance throughout your menstrual cycle.  We'd recommend drinking regularly through the month, but increasing to 2-3 cups a day the week before your period is due and for the first few days.

Period & Cycle support collection