Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to emotional and physical symptoms that regularly occur in the one to two weeks before the start of each menstrual period. Symptoms  resolve around the start of bleeding. Different women experience different symptoms.  The common emotional symptoms include irritability and mood changes while the common physical symptoms include acne, tender breasts, bloating, and feeling tired; these are also seen in women without PMS. Often symptoms are present for around six days. ...

premenstrual syndrome

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Abnormal-Uterine-Bleeding

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Abnormal-Uterine-Bleeding_0_0

Abnormal uterine bleeding refers to any bleeding that is not part of your regular menstrual cycle. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, and even cancer. Symptoms may include heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, or longer or shorter periods. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to see a gynecologist.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis_0_0

Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows outside of it. It can cause severe pain, heavy bleeding, and infertility. Endometriosis affects around 10% of women of reproductive age and can be challenging to diagnose. If you suspect you have endometriosis, see a gynecologist or a specialist in reproductive medicine.

Polycystic-Ovary-Syndrome-(PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic-Ovary-Syndrome-(PCOS)_0_0

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by multiple cysts on the ovaries, irregular periods, and infertility. PCOS can also cause weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. If you suspect you have PCOS, see an endocrinologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cervical-cancer

Cervical cancer

Cervical-cancer_0_0

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. It is usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain during sex, and pelvic pain. Cervical cancer can be prevented with routine Pap tests and HPV vaccines. If you suspect you have cervical cancer, see a gynecologist or an oncologist.

Herbal-and-natural-remedies

Herbal and natural remedies

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In addition to medical treatment, there are also several herbs and natural remedies that may help with period problems. Here are a few to consider:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may help reduce menstrual pain and cramps.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus): Also known as vitex, chasteberry may help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce PMS symptoms.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Red raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus): Rich in vitamins and minerals, red raspberry leaf may help strengthen the uterus and reduce heavy bleeding.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa): Often used for menopausal symptoms, black cohosh may also help relieve menstrual cramps and regulate periods.</li></ul>It's important to note that these remedies are not a substitute for medical treatment and should be used with caution. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new herbal or natural remedies.

What-medications,-allergies-and-foods-can-lead-to-problematic-periods

What medications, allergies and foods can lead to problematic periods

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Medications:

Medications:_1_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can cause heavy menstrual bleeding or prolonged bleeding.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hormonal contraceptives such as birth control pills, patches, and hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause irregular bleeding or spotting.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anticoagulants like warfarin and heparin can increase the risk of heavy menstrual bleeding.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) can cause irregular bleeding or amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods).</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Thyroid hormone replacement therapy can cause irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding.</li></ul>

Active-compounds-of-medications:

Active compounds of medications:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Aspirin: acetylsalicylic acid</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ibuprofen: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Naproxen: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hormonal contraceptives: estrogen and/or progestin</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Warfarin: anticoagulant</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Heparin: anticoagulant</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">SSRIs: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">TCAs: tricyclic antidepressants</li></ul>

Allergies:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Allergies to latex, used in some condoms, can cause vaginal irritation and discomfort during menstrual periods.</li></ul>

Foods:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Caffeine can cause breast tenderness and irritability in some women during their periods.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Alcohol consumption can cause dehydration and worsen menstrual cramps.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salt can lead to bloating and water retention, which can worsen menstrual symptoms.</li></ul>

In conclusion, period problems can be scary, but they don't have to be. By paying attention to your menstrual cycle and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can ensure your reproductive health stays in top shape. And if you're interested in trying natural remedies, there are plenty of options out there. Just remember to always talk to your healthcare provider before trying anything new.
So, go forth and take care of yourself, ladies. Your period is trying to tell you something, and it's important to listen.

Period Problems: What Your Menstrual Cycle Is Trying to Tell You

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Екипът на Санацио

What-is-saffron?

What is saffron?

What-is-saffron?_0_0

What-is-saffron?_0_1

It is known that saffron is offered in "threads" or stigmas, which are actually the stamens of a flower &ndash; crocus Crocus sativus &ndash; that thrives in the hot climatic conditions of the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Middle East. 1

What-is-saffron?_0_2

It is not the rarity of the flowers themselves that makes saffron so expensive, but their short range for flowering, low yield and the cost of human labor needed to collect the gentle reproductive parts. Here we are talking about hard work with tweezers, and not about magic machines for extracting stamens.

What-is-saffron?_0_3

Like many of the most complexly flavored food products in the world - chartreuse, truffles, etc. - the exact taste of saffron is difficult to describe. It tastes like saffron that can't be compared to any other. You can say its taste is smokey, intoxicating or bright, slightly bitter or semi-sweet, but for this purpose you must first try it.

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Despite all this complexity, however, saffron goes remarkably well with a wide variety of other foods, from rice and pasta to vegetables to meat (and even dessert).

What-are-the-benefits-of-saffron?

What are the benefits of saffron? 

What-are-the-benefits-of-saffron?_1_0

Antidepressant-action

Antidepressant action 

Antidepressant-action_1_0

Enough evidence has been accumulated to make sure that saffron has remarkable antidepressant effects superior to placebo. Some studies have tested saffron against reference drugs, such as selective serotonin reabsorption inhibitors, and found that the effects were comparable, although saffron still has less evidence and less real-world experience than many drugs.&nbsp;

Antistress-action

Antistress action  

Antistress-action_1_0

In addition, saffron appears to have an anti-stress effect, although the evidence for this is still insufficient and more research is needed in specific anxiety disorders. Some preliminary research suggests it may help relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, various inflammatory conditions, and improved sleep, but much more research is needed to be sure of its efficacy for these purposes.

Powerful-antioxidant

Powerful antioxidant 

Powerful-antioxidant_1_0

Powerful-antioxidant_1_1

Saffron contains an impressive variety of plant compounds. They act as antioxidants molecules that protect your cells from free radicals and oxidative stress. The remarkable antioxidants in saffron include:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Crocin</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Crocetin</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Safranal</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Kaempferol</li></ul>Crocin and crocetin are carotenoid pigments responsible for the red color of saffron. Both compounds can provide the following benefits:

Powerful-antioxidant_1_3

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Have antidepressant properties</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Protects brain cells from progressive damage</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Control inflammation</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reduces appetite</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Aids in weight &nbsp;loss <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26468457/" target="_blank" data-ref="The effects of Crocus sativus (saffron) and its constituents on nervous system: A review - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;</li></ul>Safranal gives saffron its distinctive taste and aroma. Research has shown that it can help improve mood, memory, and learning ability, as well as protect brain&nbsp; cells from damage. 3

Powerful-antioxidant_1_4

Finally, kaempferol is found in the petals of saffron. This compound has been linked to health benefits, such as reduced inflammation, anti-cancer properties, and antidepressant activity. 4

Saffron can help you improve your mood and overcome anxiety. In a review of 5 studies, saffron supplements were significantly more effective than placebo at treating symptoms of mild to moderate depression. 6 Still, larger studies on people with more participants are needed before experts can recommend saffron as a treatment for depression.

Anticancer-action

Anticancer action

Anticancer-action_1_0

Saffron is high in antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals. Free radical damage has been linked to chronic diseases, including the development of cancer.

Anticancer-action_1_1

In in vitro studies, saffron and its compounds have been shown to selectively kill colon cancer cells or inhibit their growth, leaving healthy cells unharmed. 6 This effect also applies to cancers of the skin, bone marrow, prostate, lung, breast, cervix, and several other types of cancer cells. 7

Aphrodisiac

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Aphrodisiacs are foods or supplements that help boost your libido. Studies have shown that saffron may have aphrodisiac properties especially in people taking antidepressants.&nbsp;

Aphrodisiac_1_1

For example, taking 30 mg. Saffron daily for 4 weeks significantly improved erectile function compared to placebo in men with erectile dysfunction associated with antidepressants. 8

Control-of-appetite-and-weight-loss

Control of appetite and weight loss 

Control-of-appetite-and-weight-loss_1_0

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There are several studies according to which saffron can help curb appetite. In one 8-week study, women taking saffron supplements felt significantly fuller, ate less often, and lost significantly more weight than the women in the placebo group.

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In another 8-week study, taking a saffron extract supplement helped significantly reduce appetite, body mass index, waist circumference, and total adipose tissue. 9

Relieving-PMS-symptoms

Relieving PMS symptoms 

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Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a term that describes physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms occurring before the menstrual cycle begins.&nbsp;

Relieving-PMS-symptoms_1_1

Studies have shown that saffron can help treat PMS symptoms. In women aged 20-45 years, taking 30 mg. Saffron daily was more effective than placebo at treating PMS symptoms such as irritability, headaches, appetite, and pain syndrome. 10

Prevention-of-heart-disease

Prevention of heart disease 

Prevention-of-heart-disease_1_0

Animal studies and in vitro tests have shown that saffron's antioxidant properties can lower blood cholesterol and prevent blockage of blood vessels and arteries.&nbsp;

Lowering-blood-sugar-levels

Lowering blood sugar levels 

Lowering-blood-sugar-levels_1_0

Saffron can lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity, as shown in vitro studies in mice with diabetes.&nbsp;

How-can-you-use-saffron?

How can you use saffron? 

How-can-you-use-saffron?_2_0

Saffron is often used in dishes with rice, paella and risotto, as well as in Indian curry and Iranian stews. It is also used to flavor some cheeses and liqueurs. Let's take a look at some of the possibilities.

Culinary-uses

Culinary uses 

Culinary-uses_2_0

Saffron is most often used in cooking as a flavor enhancer or colorant. When used for cooking, the spice releases essential oils that emit a floral aroma and give a unique bitterness. This combination creates a distinctive taste that can not be reproduced by any other spice. A small pinch of spice added to a dish can help a lot in terms of taste. Due to its strong taste, it is often used sparingly.

Culinary-uses_2_1

Paella is a Spanish dish traditionally made with rice, beans, meat and seafood, flavored with saffron. Another famous dish that uses the spice is risotto alla Milanese, an Italian rice dish made with broth and flavored with parmesan and white wine. The bouillabaisse seafood soup from Marseille also traditionally includes saffron as one of its main ingredients.

Medical-uses

Medical uses 

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Historically, saffron has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient Roman times, when it was prescribed as an antispasmodic medicine for menstrual pain by Pliny the Elder.

Medical-uses_2_1

Today, some studies show that consuming small amounts of saffron (between 0.5 5 grams per day) can help reduce symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, such as bloating and cramping. Although there is not enough scientific evidence to support these claims, it is worth noting that traditional medicine has relied on saffron for these purposes for centuries.

Medical-uses_2_2

Saffron's supposed properties don't stop there &mdash; the spice is also thought to act as an antidepressant. One study showed that taking 30 mg. Safranal daily significantly improved symptoms associated with mild to moderate depression after 6 weeks compared to placebo.

How-to-store-saffron?

How to store saffron? 

How-to-store-saffron?_3_0

How-to-store-saffron?_3_1

Since the spice is so expensive, it is important to store it properly.

How-to-store-saffron?_3_2

<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">To store saffron, place it in an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The spice will stay fresh for up to six months if stored properly.</li></ol>

Saffron is a unique spice that has been used for centuries in both culinary and traditional medicine. It is made from the stigmas of the purple flower called Crocus sativus, which blooms for only a few weeks each year. Saffron is native to Southwest Asia and the majority of the global supply comes from Iran, and its remarkable benefits are assured by both various studies and folk medicine. In some of these areas, however, more research is needed to show its efficacy and reveal the potential of saffron for various health problems.

11 Remarkable Health Benefits of Saffron

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Бетина Цветкова

What-is-Valerian?

What is Valerian? 

What-is-Valerian?_0_0

What-is-Valerian?_0_1

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), also known as medicinal dilyanka, is a flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/en/herb/15378" target="_blank" data-ref="Valeriana officinalis" rel="noopener">[Ref. 1]</a> Since ancient times, the root of this plant has been used to treat insomnia, nervousness, trembling, headaches and palpitations, as well as other conditions. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2225411015000917" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; Valerian flowers have a delicate aroma, often used in perfumes. However, the root of valerian has a very strong earthy smell. This is due to volatile oils and other compounds responsible for its sedative effects.&nbsp;

What-is-Valerian?_0_2

There are over 250 species of valerian, but V. officinalis is the most used species in Western countries. Of the others, only two are commonly used for medicinal purposes (the Himalayan V. wallichii and the Mexican V. edulis) &nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-60367-9_15?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=474bd8be-0609-4d55-8d39-ba35c609be54" target="_blank" data-ref="Valeriana Species" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;. This article focuses on Valeriana officinalis. An interesting fact about this type of plant is that during the Second World War, the Plant Drug Committee of England listed valerian root as one of the most important plants to collect, as it is extremely useful in relieving the stress of air raids.

Useful-compounds-in-valerian-root

Useful compounds in valerian root 

Useful-compounds-in-valerian-root_1_0

Useful-compounds-in-valerian-root_1_1

Valerian consists of many biologically active components that provide its wide-ranging effects. The chemical composition of valerian varies greatly depending on the species, season, geographical source, growing conditions, method of processing and storage. Among the most important beneficial compounds in valerian root are:

Useful-compounds-in-valerian-root_1_2

<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sesquiterpenes of volatile oils such as valeric acid. Valerenoic acid increases levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that reduces the activity of brain cells. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory effects (by reducing the activity of NF-KappaB).&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Iridoids. Iridoids (valepotrietes and their derivatives) have sedative effects but are unstable and decay during storage or in water, making their activity more difficult to assess.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Alkaloids, which "are perhaps the most powerful group of plant ingredients that act on the human body and mind," according to renowned herbalist David Hoffman. &nbsp;<a href="https://healthy.net/2019/08/26/valerian/" target="_blank" data-ref="Valerian" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hesperidin, Linerine and Lignan 4. Hesperidin and linarin are antioxidant flavonoids with sleep-enhancing effects. Hesperidin also has anti-seizure effects.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Free amino acids such as γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), tyrosine, arginine and glutamine. GABA is also found in valerian extracts in amounts sufficient to produce a sedative effect, although it is not known whether it crosses the blood-brain barrier. However, glutamine present in aqueous (but not alcoholic) valerian root extracts can cross the blood-brain barrier and become GABA in animals. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8573216/" target="_blank" data-ref="In vitro study on the interaction of Valeriana officinalis L. extracts and their amino acids on GABAA receptor in rat brain - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Isovaleric acid, which prevents involuntary muscle contractions. Its action is similar to valproic acid, which is used to treat epilepsy.</li></ol>

Health-Benefits-of-Valerian-Root

Health Benefits of Valerian Root

Valerian-for-insomnia

Valerian for insomnia

Valerian-for-insomnia_2_0

Valerian-for-insomnia_2_1

The mild sedative effects of valerian have been used to promote relaxation and sleep for several millennia. Valerian serves to improve sleep by increasing GABA levels. In fact, lower levels of GABA are found in people with short- and long-term stress and are associated with anxiety and poor sleep quality. A meta-analysis of 16 studies and 1,093 people found that valerian improved sleep speed, depth and overall sleep quality. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0002934306002750" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

Valerian-for-insomnia_2_2

Valerenoic acid, which is a component of valerian root, has a positive impact on GABA, which is one of the main sedative neurotransmitters. It is associated with improved mood, a sense of calm, improved sleep, help relieve PMS and focus.&nbsp;

Valerian-for-insomnia_2_3

Due to the content of such acids, the main benefit of Valeriana officinalis is the promotion of natural sleep after a few weeks of use, without the risk of dependence or negative health effects. When used correctly, it can serve as a more gentle alternative to common insomnia medications that cause known side effects.&nbsp;

Valerian-for-menopausal-symptoms

Valerian for menopausal symptoms 

Valerian-for-menopausal-symptoms_2_0

In a study of 100 postmenopausal women with sleep disorders, valerian root significantly improved sleep quality after 4 weeks. In another 3-month study of 60 postmenopausal women, valerian was found to significantly improve the severity and frequency of hot flashes in women. 7

Maintaining-serotonin-and-norepinephrine-levels

Maintaining serotonin and norepinephrine levels

Maintaining-serotonin-and-norepinephrine-levels_2_0

One study found that valerian reduced stress in mice by helping maintain serotonin and norepinephrine in two specific areas of the brain that have been linked to fear and anxiety — the hippocampus and amygdala. The presence of these two neurotransmitters helps to calm excessive activity in the hippocampus/amygdala. However, it is unclear whether the same action is being implemented in humans.

Valerian-for-anxiety-and-depression

Valerian for anxiety and depression 

Valerian-for-anxiety-and-depression_2_0

One study of 2,462 adults with major depressive disorder and anxiety found that high doses of valerian (1,000 mg/day) taken in combination with St. John's wort (bell, cut bile, cut) (600 mg/day) for 6 weeks reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression by 66%. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0944711304703487" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 7]</a>&nbsp;

Valerian-for-anxiety-and-depression_2_1

Preliminary studies suggest that valeric acid may again be the key element that helps reduce anxiety. In a few limited studies, this acid not only showed anti-stress effects, but also did not bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. Studies have shown that these receptors may be responsible for benzodiazepine addiction. However, further studies are needed to clarify the potential benefits of valerian for anxiety and anxiety.

Valerian-in-ADHD

Valerian in ADHD 

Valerian-in-ADHD_2_0

GABA deficiency has a role in anxiety, anxiety, and obsessive behavior, and these are symptoms commonly seen with ADHD.

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In one study of 30 children aged 5 to 11, valerian (taken 3 times a day for 2 weeks) improved symptoms of ADHD (prolonged inattention and impulsivity and/or hyperactivity). These positive effects disappear a week after discontinuation of the use of valerian.

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In another 7-week study of 169 children with hyperactivity and difficulty concentrating (but not meeting the criteria for ADHD), the combination of valerian and lemon balm reduced symptoms of anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and impulsivity. 9

Valerian-during-cancer-and-HIV-treatment

Valerian during cancer and HIV treatment 

Valerian-during-cancer-and-HIV-treatment_2_0

There is a limited number of data in a small study that valerian improves insomnia and well-being in people undergoing cancer treatment. Contrary to popular belief, valerian does not interact with cancer drugs in this case. 10 However, more in-depth studies need to be done in this direction.

Risks-and-side-effects-when-taking-valerian-root

Risks and side effects when taking valerian root 

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Valerian is generally safe when taken for 4 to 8 weeks by healthy adults at the recommended doses. There are no data on long-term safety. In very rare cases, it can cause mild side effects, such as:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Headache</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Digestive disorder</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Emotional changes</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dry mouth</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Problems with thinking</li></ul>

Dosage-of-valerian-root

Dosage of valerian root 

As one of the most well-known herbal remedies for anxiety, people around the world use valerian to combat insomnia, anxiety, stress, and other health problems. Some of these effects are due to the beneficial components contained in valerian, which can be used in the form of powdered extracts, capsules, dried herb and others.&nbsp;