Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that affects many women, impacting their emotional and physical well-being in the luteal phase of their cycle (the two weeks before menstruation). While conventional medicine often relies on antidepressants, hormonal therapies, or pain relief medications, Integrative and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a natural, holistic approach that can work alongside medical treatments to restore balance.
Emotional Symptoms of PMDD
PMDD is often marked by intense emotional symptoms, which can disrupt daily life. These include:
- Severe mood swings
- Irritability or anger
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Depression or feelings of hopelessness
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Social withdrawal
From a TCM perspective, these symptoms often indicate imbalances in the Liver and Heart systems. The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and emotions, while the Heart governs the mind and spirit (Shen). Stagnation or deficiency in these systems can lead to the emotional instability seen in PMDD.
Physical Symptoms of PMDD
PMDD doesn’t just affect mood—it also presents with physical symptoms, such as:
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches or migraines
- Bloating and digestive discomfort
- Fatigue and sleep disturbances
- Joint or muscle pain
These symptoms can be linked to imbalances in Qi, Blood, and fluids within the body. In TCM, poor digestion (Spleen Qi deficiency) can contribute to bloating, while Liver Qi stagnation can exacerbate headaches and breast tenderness.
Causes & Diagnosis from a Chinese Medicine Perspective
While the exact cause of PMDD remains unclear in Western medicine, it is thought to involve extreme sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations. TCM sees PMDD as a manifestation of underlying disharmonies, including:
- Liver Qi stagnation – leading to mood swings, irritability, and pain
- Blood deficiency – contributing to fatigue, brain fog, and low mood
- Spleen and Kidney weakness – affecting energy levels, digestion, and emotional resilience
In clinic, we use Chinese medicine diagnostic systems that are based on a detailed consultation, including pulse and tongue diagnosis, menstrual cycle tracking, and, functional analysis of blood test results. By interpreting blood markers from both a biomedical and Chinese medicine perspective, we can identify suboptimal nutrient levels and hormonal imbalances that may contribute to PMDD symptoms.
Managing PMDD with a Holistic & Integrative Approach
1._Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine
Research has shown that acupuncture can be a valuable adjunct in managing PMDD. A study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that acupuncture significantly reduced PMDD symptoms, particularly anxiety and depression. Another study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine highlights the effectiveness of Chinese herbal formulas in regulating menstrual cycles and easing PMDD-related distress.
Acupuncture helps to regulate hormones, reduce stress, and ease pain by improving circulation and balancing the nervous system. Herbal medicine can further support emotional stability, nourish Blood, and regulate Qi.
2. Functional Nutrition & Chinese Medicine Food Therapy
Diet plays a crucial role in managing PMDD.
- Warming foods like soups, stews, and root vegetables help strengthen digestion and prevent bloating.
- Blood-nourishing foods such as dark leafy greens, eggs, dates, and red meat (if suitable) support energy and emotional resilience.
- Liver-supporting foods like leafy greens, citrus, and herbal teas help with mood swings and irritability.
- Reducing damp-inducing foods (dairy, excessive sugar, and processed foods) can improve digestion and reduce bloating.
3. Lifestyle & Stress Management
PMDD is exacerbated by stress, making lifestyle adjustments essential.
- Exercise: Gentle movement like yoga, walking, and Tai Chi (such as Matt’s Wednesday morning class at 9:30 am) can smooth Liver Qi and reduce emotional tension.
- Mindfulness & Breathwork: Meditation, Qi Gong, and deep breathing help to regulate the nervous system.
- Sleep Hygiene: A consistent bedtime routine with calming herbal teas and reduced screen time supports hormonal balance.
Find Relief with a Personalised Approach
If you’re struggling with PMDD, a tailored approach that integrates acupuncture, herbal medicine, functional nutrition, and lifestyle advice can help you regain balance.
Maya’s expertise in women’s health, Chinese medicine, and functional diagnostics allows for a comprehensive treatment plan designed to support your cycle naturally.
To start your journey toward hormonal harmony, book a consultation today and take the first step toward feeling like yourself again.
Research References:
- Armour, M., Ee, C., Hao, J., Wilson, T. M., Yao, S. S., & Smith, C. A. (2019). Acupuncture for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 46, 184-195.
- Zhang, J., Li, L., Qi, Y., & Pan, J. (2020). Effects of acupuncture on anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2020, 1-10.
