Sharing some of my favorite herbs for PMS. 

Hi friends! How are you? Happy Valentine’s Day!! I hope you’re having a lovely morning. I’m looking forward to mass with the kids (it’s also Ash Wednesday) and family fancy dinner tonight. I hope you have a great day, too.

For today, let’s talk about PMS and some herbs that may help!

For many women, the days leading up to menstruation can bring about a slew of uncomfortable symptoms, collectively known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). While managing these symptoms may feel like an uphill battle, nature offers a plethora of remedies in the form of medicinal herbs. In this blog post, I’m going to share some popular herbal solutions for PMS, exploring the benefits, usage, and considerations that may help you find relief naturally.

It’s also to remember that while PMS is common, it’s not *normal*. It is possible to have a completely uneventful cycle, but it takes some lifestyle changes, nervous system resetting, and dialed-in nutrition. While herbs can be a helpful complement to your routine, they can’t makeup for your lifestyle or daily habits.

the best herbs for PMS

Understanding PMS and Herbal Remedies

Premenstrual syndrome encompasses a range of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days preceding menstruation. From bloating and mood swings to headaches and fatigue, these symptoms can significantly impact daily life. Herbal remedies offer a holistic approach to managing PMS by addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances and supporting overall well-being.

Herbs for PMS Relief

Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus):

Chasteberry is renowned for its ability to balance hormones, particularly by increasing progesterone levels. This can alleviate symptoms such as irritability, breast tenderness, and bloating.

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis):

Dong Quai is a traditional Chinese herb known for its regulatory effects on the menstrual cycle. It can help alleviate menstrual cramps, promote blood flow, and regulate hormonal fluctuations.

Evening Primrose Oil:

Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), evening primrose oil is prized for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce breast tenderness, bloating, and mood swings associated with PMS.

Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa):

Black cohosh is beneficial for relieving menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and mood swings. It may also help alleviate PMS symptoms such as irritability and anxiety.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale):

Ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable ally in combating menstrual cramps and digestive discomfort associated with PMS.

Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus):

As the name suggests, cramp bark is highly effective in relieving menstrual cramps and muscle tension. It works by relaxing the uterine muscles, easing pain and discomfort.

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa):

Wild yam contains compounds that mimic natural progesterone, making it beneficial for hormonal balance. It can alleviate PMS symptoms such as mood swings, breast tenderness, and bloating. Wild yam should ideally be used in the luteal phase

Bursting with the sweet, juicy flavors of pineapple and coconut, this Pina Colada Smoothie brings a bit of vacation sunshine, no matter the weather.

Pina Colada Smoothie

Years ago, when I first put this recipe on the blog, I had just made this piña colada smoothie and churned it into ice cream. I can still remember how my little boys jumped up and down with excitement.

They loved the sweetness of this refreshing ice cream treat during the heat of a Phoenix summer. I loved that it had no refined sugars.

I had been on a bit of a smoothie kick, back then. But, I’d never tried freezing a smoothie recipe before that. The result is a creamy texture that is more like soft-serve ice cream.

The twist of lime in this Pina Colada Smoothie gives it a unique taste that is more complex than the simple combination of coconut and pineapple. And, the tiny pinch of sea salt likewise enhances all of the flavors.

Be aware that different manufacturers produce their coconut milks at varying levels of creaminess and thickness. My favorite is the canned coconut milk from Thai kitchen.

I typically use store-bought frozen pineapple chunks for smoothies, but you can also freeze fresh pineapple chunks with the banana. Also, the honey could be swapped out for another natural sweet

(and not just because I’m salty about my results)

Hi friends! How are you? Did you have a good weekend? What did you do for the Super Bowl? We went to an amazing event – I’ll share details in Friday Faves – and the fam came over to watch the Usher concert.. I mean the football game. 😉

For today’s post, I’m finally ready to talk about my MyDNAge test results. It took me a while to marinate on my thoughts because at first, I was a little salty. I’ll share why below, in addition to how this test works. I’m not including a referral link because I’m not quite sure if I recommend this one. I had a much better experience and feel like I got more useful data from InsideTracker. 

I really feel like at-home lab testing is the future, and we’re going to see more advanced methods and data in the future, which is very exciting! In the era of personalized health, understanding our genetic makeup has become a powerful tool for optimizing wellness. MyDNAge takes this concept to the next level by providing insights into the very fabric of our being – our DNA.

 why I didn’t like the MyDNAge test

How MyDNAge Works

MyDNAge utilizes advanced technology to analyze specific markers within your DNA associated with the aging process. The science behind this process lies in the examination of specific regions known as epigenetic markers. These markers provide a unique snapshot of how your genes are expressing themselves over time, offering a glimpse into the biological age of your cells.

The process involves:

DNA Collection:

MyDNAge requires a blood sample, through an at-home fingerpick. (More on this under Cons lol)

Epigenetic Analysis:

The collected DNA is then subjected to sophisticated epigenetic analysis. This involves examining specific chemical modifications to the DNA molecule, known as methyl groups, which play a crucial role in regulating gene activity.

Age Determination:

By analyzing the epigenetic markers, MyDNAge estimates the biological age of your cells. This information provides a personalized and data-driven perspective on how your body is aging at a cellular level.

Read more

Buttery, nutty cookies are topped with the sweet jam of your choice in these simple, gluten free Pecan Thumbprint Cookies.

Pecan Thumbprint Cookies

I’ve been making thumbprint cookies for as long as I’ve been baking. From the classic peanut butter cookies with Hershey’s kisses, to every kind of jam and jelly-filled goodie you can think of. They inevitably remind me of Christmas.

These pecan thumbprint cookies are rolled in crushed nuts before baking, adding an irresistible nutty crunch to these cookies. This recipe is very gently adapted from these vegan cookies on my friend Gina’s blog.

This recipe has become a tradition for us over the past couple of years, as it gets absolute RAVE reviews from my friends who avoid both gluten and dairy. It was past time to save the recipe here for future baking, but all credit goes to Gina for the original awesomeness.

It’s always fun to make thumbprint cookies with kids, as we all get to use our favorite jams. My nieces opted for strawberry or raspberry jam this time. While apricot jam is almost always my preference. We all win.

Gluten Free Thumbprint Cookies

Yes, you’re reading this correctly. There is no flour in this recipe. These cookies are gluten-free and positively delicious, made with almond and coconut flours.

If you’re looking for a few more naturally gluten-free dessert options, I’ve got your dessert needs covered for any occasion. From sweet snacking and cookie munching to an elegant (and EASY TO MAKE) dessert, it’s all right here.

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Authentic Finnish Pancakes Recipe [+Video]

Authentic Finnish pancakes are a popular traditional dish eaten during Midsummer’s Eve or Christmas. Learn how to make traditional Finnish pancakes with this recipe.

Bon Appétit describes Finnish pancakes as somewhere between “crepes, pancakes and heaven” and I couldn’t agree more. These are light and tender and ready to top with your favorite pancake toppings.

If you have been joining us on our tour of pancakes around the world, then welcome to Finland! I have never been there, but it is definitely on my list of places to visit! Now don’t get confused, there are two types of pancakes that are popular in Finland, a baked oven pancake (pannukakku) and a pan fried pancake (lettu or lätty). This version is the pan fried, crepe-like pancake, and they are fabulous!

My Tie to Finland

We lived by the most amazing mother-daughter-duo for quite a few years in Lehi, Utah, Alison and her mother, Marty. Marty is a spunky explosion of happiness in my life and the lives of my family members. She and her daughter welcomed us into their lives in a way that can be nothing other than a spiritual gift from heaven. We felt like family and will always love them like family. 

These two women have witnessed more heartache than most, especially with the loss of loved ones and I am living my life differently because of how deeply they love, mourn and continue on faithful regardless of their trials. They live sweet, happy lives. They cherish the people around them and are always spinning new paths on metaphorical spider webs of family. I love them. And I love that they love where they come from, Finland. 

Not just Finland, but the people and stories around their lives matter. So, I have no reason to have made Finnish Pancakes other than to think of them and try to be more like them because no one does family like they do. 

What Do I Need to Make Finnish Pancakes?

The ingredients for Finnish pancakes are items that you’ll probably have in your pantry or fridge so they are a great option to make spur of the moment (same story for our more traditional buttermilk pancakes if you want to go with an old reliable pancake)! If you want to try something new, the kids will be over the moon for these Finnish pancakes! Here is what you will need:

• Eggs: You want the eggs well beaten so I usually just use a blender for mixing all the ingredients.
• Milk: For the best flavor and texture, use whole milk.
• Flour: just regular all purpose flour works great
• Vanilla: adds flavor
• Salt: enhances all the flavors
• Sugar: You can totally control the sweetness here. Add as little as 3 tablespoons for mild sweetness up to 6 tablespoons for maximum sweetness.