Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) - - caused by changes in hormone levels during a woman's menstrual cycle, is one of the most common hormone related problems experienced by women.

Studies conducted on menstruation and menopause during the second half of this century are beginning to reveal certain patterns related to this problem.

Generally, it has been shown that regular moderate exercise, a diet consisting of daily fruit and vegetable consumption, combined with limited protein intake, can go a long way to help your body better cope with monthly hormone fluctuations. Supplementing your diet with certain vitamins, minerals and herbs can provide additional support in this effort.

Lydia's Secret^TM is based on the original Lydia E. PinkhamŪ formula, which has been used by women as a dietary supplement for over 100 years. It is made from natural herbs combined with vitamins and minerals that are recommended as a dietary supplement for PMS. Lydia's Secret provides a woman with a way to add balance to her life.

Black cohosh, one of the herbs in Lydia's Secret, is rich in phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens are acctive ingredients in a plant that have estrogen like characteristics. In addition to indirectly affecting hormone levels, Black cohosh appears to function by balancing your body's response to hormone fluctuations. Research is ongoing.

If your body is low in estrogen, this balancing effect may act similar to increasing estrogen levels. If your body is high in estrogen, this balancing effect is thought to reduce the effect of high estrogen levels.

Consuming a phytoestrogen is not like taking aspirin and having your headache go away 30 minutes later. Phytoestrogenic herbs, taken in the proper amount, may result in subtle changes over time. Results may vary and can occur in days or weeks.

Taking more is not better. Some Black cohosh products on the market contain amounts far in excess of the recommended dose. Black cohosh, taken in excess, can cause stomach upset, headaches and dizziness. Studies have shown the recommended daily dose of Black cohosh contained in Lydia's Secret is generally accepted as safe.

Lydia's Secret contains licorice root. You should avoid using diuretics with herbal formulas that contain licorice. The amount of licorice is well below the recommended safe level, however, caution is advised when using any herbal formula. Herbs are not benign. Furthermore, if you have a history of hypertension, are diabetic, or have kidney problems you should seek the advice of your health care professional before using Lydia's Secret.

The ability of the body to absorb certain types of mineral supplements is a matter of ongoing debate and scientific study. The level of mineral absorption varies considerably depending on the mineral and how it is made.

Minerals used in Lydia's Secret are made with a process called chelation. Scientific studies show that chelated minerals are more readily absorbed by the body than non-chelated minerals.

Lydia E. Pinkham (1819-1883) was a member of the Eclectic movement. The Eclectics believed in maintaining good health through diet and the use of herbs. This was extremely important in the 1800s, when doctors were feared more than revered.

Many of the lifestyle recommendations supported by the Eclectics are the same as those now recommended for today's modern woman. Their influence was so great, it has been purported that American doctors formed the AMA in the mid 1800s to counter their growing influence.

By all accounts, Lydia E. Pinkham was a pioneer who championed open dialogue on women's health and sex rights. Lydia held meetings, advertised, wrote books and openly defied conventional male dominated wisdom. Her company employed a group of women to answer letters written by women asking for advice on health, sex and marital relationships. Lydia Pinkham was the Ann Landers and Dr. Ruth of the 1800's.

This information is not intended to take the place of competent medical advice from your doctor or medical practitioner. Let your doctor know you are using a dietary supplement. Make sure you do not have any underlying health problems that may be complicated by the herbs you are using.