We’re tough. We’re beautiful. We’re fabulous. And we’re women. Every month, the dreaded premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can bring us to our knees. Tired of bowing down to raging hormones? These five PMS busters are sure to bring you bliss.

Tea Time
Caffeine consumption definitely increases the effects of PMS, especially irritability and moodiness,” says Shauna Darou, a naturopath in Toronto. Instead, choose chamomile, passionflower or lemon balm tea. “You can also combine these teas with herbs, such as burdock root, which helps the body release hormones through the liver, or dandelion leaf, which can relieve water retention.” Instead of just sipping it, try Lush Tea & Sympathy Bath Bomb ($5) in your bath. The bath bomb is infused with Roman chamomile essential oil and calamine powder to calm and soothe the skin. Tucked into the centre is an organic chamomile tea bag to calm your body and mind.

Reflex Reverie
According to Margo McLaughlin, an instructor at the Ontario College of Reflexology, regular reflexology sessions can regulate menstrual flow and ease headaches, bloating, digestive issues, cramping and irritability. “A patient should have a complete reflexology treatment at least twice a week beginning two weeks before the menstrual cycle begins, when the hormonal changes begin to take place in your body.”

Massage waiting
Victoria Spa’s “rose massage treatment ($130) absolutely works wonders for stressful conditions, such as PMS,” says Nicole Bookman, director of the Toronto spa. “Guests lie on a bed of rose petals in a room scented with rose oil and are massaged with rose and sesame oils, which ease bloating, aching and anxiety.” No time or money? Run a bath, light some candles and soak in one of Cake Beauty’s Supremely Rich Bath and Shower Froth (Frothing Threesome Holiday Collection contains Desserted Island, It’s a Slice and Crème de la Crème, $30), then scrub away your blues with Desserted Island Creamy Body Buffer ($24).

Comfort Food
There’s nothing like the onset of PMS to send a gal rushing for the refrigerator or corner store in search of sweet or salty sustenance. “Salt will cause bloating, and too much sugar can contribute to mood swings,” cautions Darou. “Instead, eat greens and choose foods rich in essential fatty acids and protein to stabilize the mood and balance blood sugar. Eating this way will take away the intensity of cravings.” An ideal PMS meal: broiled salmon, steamed broccoli and brown rice pilaf with almonds, pumpkin seeds and pecans. For dessert, enjoy an apple-walnut crisp.

Ban Bloating
Don’t suffer a puffy tummy. Drink plenty of water, infused with lemon, grapefruit or cucumber slices. “Bloating can often be a sign of a calcium and magnesium deficiency,” says Darou. She recommends either taking a supplement or consuming nutrient-rich foods, such as almonds, cashews and yogurt. For a special treat, choose chocolate milk or mocha pudding. Or, try Dida ($35), a cinnamon and herb complex pill that also contains oregano, garlic, cloves, cardamom and olive leaves, peppermint and fennel to reduce digestive disorders and bloating.