This formula opens up the movement of Qi, where it has been constrained, softening the Liver and protecting the Blood.* "When Liver Qi is obstructed, not only will breast pain or swelling likely manifest before the period but also moodiness and irritability, possibly abdomen cramping or discomfort. The formula aims to relieve breast and abdomen soreness or swelling, primarily by easing the movement of Qi which has been constrained. However for many women, more disturbing than the discomfort of breast swelling or abdominal cramping, are the mood changes they experience. Irritability or a sense of frustration is common, sometimes accompanied by teariness and a feeling of hopelessness or depression. Insomnia can accompany these symptoms. When the Liver Qi moves without obstruction many of these emotional symptoms are alleviated. ,,. Heat often develops in the Liver as a result of obstructed Qi. It is this Heat which can cause headaches as Liver Qi rises and can also effect the Heart, leading to agitation and disturbed emotions, on top of the frustration already caused by the obstructed Liver Qi. This constrained Heat is why many women complain about feeling more flushed or hot before their period, and more restless at night." -Lyttleton: Formula Guide Jade Woman Herbals "In women with stressful lives and marked Liver Qi stagnation, this is a useful formula to take, on an ongoing basis. Once premenstrual symptoms are improved the formula could be given the the latter one or two weeks of the menstrual cycle only. However many women, particularly those in stressful situations, like to take this sort of formula most of the time. If a patient is also Yin deficient, the use of a Yin tonic constitutional formula in the first two weeks of the cycle would be advised, with the use of Jade Calm being restricted to the latter two weeks." - Lyttleton