That Time of the Month?

Ladies, you know what time I'm talking about! That special time of the month in which we women want to strangle everyone around us, put on our stretchiest pants, and eat a chocolate cake. Wrapped in bacon. And washed down with a jug of Ernest and Julio Gallo's Cabernet Sauvignon.

We all have our different cravings. Some of us like salty things, while others want sweet things. Some of us, myself included, want both. Back in the day, a big ol' bowl of greasy popcorn tossed with a handful of M&Ms was just what the doctor ordered! I haven't tried to eat popcorn since having lap band surgery, though, and I doubt it's a good idea. Too pointy.

There are something like 18574638575839390984 websites out there (yes, I counted! lol) that give women diet advice for the time before and during the menstrual cycle. Many people believe that our bodies naturally tell us what foods are needed to correct imbalances, and I believe that as well. What about those of us who would like to try to tap into the energy of our moon cycle and eat magically? Well, I've put together some ideas that you might like.

First of all, props to Mr. Scott Cunningham, as always. He's the main source of information on magical plants and foods for me. His Encyclopedia of Wicca in the Kitchen provides us with a list of foods that are ruled by the moon.

These include:
blueberry, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, butter, cabbage, cauliflower, coconut, cucumbers, eggs, grapes, grapefruit, ice cream (score!), lemon, lentils, lettuce, melon, milk and milk shakes, mushrooms, papayas, poppy seeds, potatoes, pumpkins, seaweed, soy, watermelon, white wine, and yogurt.

If you want to combine these magical foods with other dietary advice, here are some things to remember:

Your digestive system is usually more sensitive during your period. You may not be able to tolerate certain foods, and heavy meals do not make you feel very well. A full rectum (sorry!) presses against the uterus. I think most women's digestive systems are a bit more sluggish around their menstrual time.

Too much caffeine will not only dehydrate you, but it can also make your breasts more tender. I don't know about you ladies, but about 2 weeks before my period starts, my boobs are so sensitive that just barely brushing against a nipple while getting dressed is enough to make me cuss. (Not that it takes much!)

Some women lose too much iron during their period and may become slightly anemic. Therefore, iron-rich foods such as legumes and dark greens are your friends during this time.

Red raspberry leaf tea is good for a woman's reproductive organs. You can buy it in health food or regular grocery stores. It's a good idea to drink this when the onslaught of PMS first begins. Check with your doctor if you are on any medications, as herbs can sometimes react badly with prescriptions.

As for the magical side of things, I would recommend choosing fish for some of your lean protein. To me, a fish's connection with the water is also a connection to fertility and to the moon and her cycles.

Broiled, grilled or pan-fried fish with mashed cauliflower would be a nice, light, meal, comprised of nourishing, comforting moon foods.

Other ideas include a smoothie made with yogurt (lemon yogurt would be nice) and blueberries.

Mushroom omelet.

Lentils with roasted Brussels sprouts and a lemony dressing.

Sushi with shrimp and cucumbers.


Have your chocolate too. Dark chocolate has a lot of heart-healthy antioxidants. Red wine has more antioxidants than white, but drink what you prefer. Just remember that the wine will also dehydrate you, intensifying cramps and headaches.

Quinoa is a high-protein seed from South America. It's easy to digest and has a very mild flavor. Combine it with roasted pumpkin or squash, black beans (Mercury), spring onions, tomatoes (for love), and a citrus-dressing for a refreshing salad.


A lot of women get caught up in the emotional roller coaster of PMS, as well as the cramps, the fatigue, bloating, etc. Other women feel more empowered during this time. I'm one of the latter. I like to channel my energy. I get into the kitchen and give it a good scrubbing. Sometimes I cook for myself, or make things to give away.

Women were sent out of the home and not allowed to cook or touch weapons during their moon time because the women were either considered unclean or too powerful, depending on the culture. I think that our energy definitely changes, and it gives more power to our rituals. That's not to say women who have reached menopause are not as powerful. The Crone has her own kind of power. I'd like to see someone chime in with ideas about the Crone in the kitchen. I, alas, do not have much knowledge or experience in this area.

Anyway, Ladies, try to focus on the power that is inside you. Those cramps are surges of power! Well, okay, maybe not, but if you tell yourselves that, it might make you feel better. If nothing else, grab a glass of wine, some dark chocolate, and go chill out in a nice hot bath! That will definitely make you feel like a goddess!