Cramps, fatigue, and mood changes - an estimated 75 percent of women experience premenstrual syndrome, also known as PMS. For many, the quick fix is medication, over-the-counter or prescription drugs. But now more women are looking to holistic methods to feel better. 

KING

Aromatherapist Jennifer Davidson Dowd says essential oils can help to relax muscles, calm anxiety and enhance mood.

Like many women, Mona Saraiya suffers from pre-menstrual syndrome. 

"I get a lot of back cramps and I'm very irritable - more irritable than usual," said Saraiya. 

Nowadays, she's trying a new approach to ease her symptoms. She's learning how to use essential oils. 

"It's very uplifting to your mood," said Saraiya. 

Aromatherapist Jennifer Davidson Dowd says essential oils can help to relax muscles, calm anxiety and enhance mood. 

"Essential oils are great at balancing hormones and that's what really triggers all of these symptoms of PMS," said Dowd.  "The best oils to use are lavender, clary sage, geranium." 

Essential oils are not regulated by the FDA and they have not undergone extensive clinical testing. But some experts say they can be helpful-if used properly. Cherie Perez is a registered nurse who specializes in herbal remedies. 

"They can not be applied directly to the skin," said Perez, RN, MD, Anderson Cancer Center. "They do need to be diluted." 

Perez says high concentrations of these oils can irritate the skin. Instead, they should be added to a bath or a massage lotion. They can also be inhaled by using a diffuser. 

While some common PMS symptoms may be relieved with essential oils, more serious symptoms require a doctor's care. 

"..such as excessive bleeding and excessive cramping, people should certainly have a good medical evaluation to see if there are any illnesses," said Perez. 

For her mild symptoms, Saraiya is trying lavender and sage. 

"They sound like simple solutions with minimal side effects," said Saraiya.  "I'm willing to give it a shot and try it." 

Experts say essential oils rarely interact with prescription medications, but just in case, it's wise to check with your doctor first. Some citrus oils may make your skin more sensitive to the sun.