The menstrual cycle sets the stage for the beginnings of new life. It has been surrounded by myth and lore, and has been spoken of in hushed tones as if it is some great mystery. The menstrual cycle is not an illness, but is often treated as such because of the myriad of symptoms that heralds its coming. Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS is no laughing matter for women. The pain, bloating, and emotional monthly roller coaster can wreak havoc on a women's (and her family's) quality of life. If you have seen your physician and have been diagnosed with PMS and nothing has worked, consider these herbs as a natural approach to finding relief and comfort during the pre-phase of your menstrual cycle. Be sure to follow the guidance of a physician, qualified herbalist or Naturopath.

Chaste Berry (also known as Vitex): This herb is known for restoring hormonal balance by reducing Prolactin levels.

There are a number of different ways to treat common stomach problems such as acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion. Some people prefer trying over-the-counter antacids such as Tums or Rolaids, while others prefer getting prescription medications from their doctors. A more natural approach to resolving stomach problems like these is to change how you eat and what you eat. There are also many natural alternative and herbal remedies which can be used.

If you have other health problems and conditions, be sure to consult your doctor or natural healthcare provider before attempting to use herbal treatments for your stomach problems.

One excellent herb to use for a variety of digestive disorders including heartburn and indigestion is called slippery elm. This herb helps reduce the inflammation which can be present in the digestive tract.

When you are young and womanhood is that serious, unimaginable block of time that lies in the future, you believe menopause is a phase. Then time carries you forward faster than you expect and you realize that menopause is not just a graduation from mid-life to later life; menopause is an experience. By the time that you are there, you also realize menopause is nothing like mid-life crisis or any other phases. There are mental, emotional and physical symptoms that all have to be dealt with. Below are some herbal remedies that can help women to do just that-cope and continue.

Depression. . .

is one of the most common symptoms of menopause, even occurring in various degrees in women who have not previously suffered with depression. Some herbal remedies to consider for depression are:

Anxiety and panic attacks are said to be brought on biochemically, because of the effects of certain things, like caffeine and other drugs, on the brain. A panic attack is an intense feeling of fear- some people even claim to think they are dying, or feel as though they are having a heart attack. Panic attacks are one extreme form of anxiety.

Most prescription drugs given by doctors for anxiety are mainly used for depression. Though these illnesses are both very different from each other they do both stem from the same areas of the brain and have some of the same factors creating their presence in our lives. This is why I have lumped them together in this article.

Herbal remedies have been used for common ailments for a long time. If you don't want to pay for a prescription, herbal remedies can help you feel better, as long as you use them safely. Here are a few common ailments and some of the remedies often used to treat them.

Acne isn't just for teenagers. It is caused by oily skin, which can be triggered by stress or hormones associated with menstruation or puberty. Aloe gel and witch hazel are topical treatments for acne; they function as an astringent and have antibacterial properties. Echinacea, when taken internally, is used to treat acne and other conditions because it promotes healing in general. Some think acne is caused by a sluggish liver (livers are supposed to cleanse your system). In this case, milk thistle may be used, because it cleanses the liver.

People all around the world are plagued with aliments everyday. Even though they are minor problems they can be annoying and painful. Instead of turning to over the counter medicine and risking side effects and the rare possibility of ingesting too much I am going to give you some home remedies that you an make at a fraction of the cost.

Herbal Remedy for Indigestion:
You can try these types of herbs singly or in combination with each other to suit your taste. Drinking hot teas made of anise, caraway, coriander, dill seeds ,angelica, lemon balm, mint leaves, chamomile, or even linden flowers can take away this common problem. For instance you can chew dill, anise, or fennel seeds then drink some soothing tea with any of the above, listed ingredients.

*But, if your indigestion develops into any vomiting, or abdominal pains, seek your doctor.

Herbal Remedy for Insomnia:

Stress is pervasive in today's society, and often causes symptoms of anxiety, irritability or insomnia. Calmatives or nervines are a class of herbs that have been traditionally used to alleviate nervous conditions and promote restful sleep. Here are examples of some herbal nervines that have been used to calm frazzled nerves, ease anxiety, and induce a restful night's sleep.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)- This gentle herb with its small, daisy-like flowers is one of the best-known calmatives. The dried flowers are commonly made into a tea for soothing nervous tension and as a sleep aid. It also has anti-spasmodic properties and has been used as a remedy for indigestion.

If you have an ailment, like cramps or stress, don't turn to your medicine cabinet just yet. Try drinking an herbal tea first. Some ailments can be relieved with a simple cup of herbal tea.

For cramps and crankiness, something women can definitely identify with, try a tea made with spearmint, lemon balm, raspberry leaf and nettle. This type of tea can actually relieve the irritability and cramps that often accompany menstruation. One to two cups daily in the week before and the week during your period should help.

To relieve bloating, try ginger or peppermint tea. One to two cups can relieve the puffiness you're feeling and even help settle a stomach.

Women may be interested in taking motherwort tea. This tea helps with anxiety and relieves premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. Motherwort also promotes the health of the uterus after childbirth.