Chasteberry is nothing new; it was used in ancient times to treat gynecological symptoms and to decrease sexual urges. Today this herb is still taken internally for many purposes from reducing hot flashes to relieving the pain of endometriosis. The National Institutes of Health says more studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of chasteberry for various conditions, so in the meantime, you may want to study up on alternatives.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
People make jokes about PMS, but it can be debilitating--especially in a severe form called premenstrual dysphoric disorder. This condition can radically impact your everyday life, with symptoms from headaches and joint pain to severe depression, anger or anxiety. The Mayo Clinic reports that using chasteberry may help ease several symptoms such as mood swings and headaches; alternatives are taking oral contraceptives, using nutritional supplements such as calcium, and changing your diet--for example, decreasing your intake of caffeine.
Menopause
A wide range of symptoms may accompany menopause, including mood swings, vaginal dryness and those infamous hot flashes. Chasteberry is used to alleviate symptoms; it's sometimes taken alone or in combination with other herbs such as black cohosh. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists hormone replacement therapy as a common alternative; other treatments include antidepressants and drugs that may relieve hot flashes, such as Gabapentin and Clonidine.
Endometriosis
With endometriosis, cells that line the uterus move to other parts of the body and shed blood there. Scar tissue forms, and the results can range from infertility to extreme pelvic and intestinal pain. The University of Maryland says the cause is unknown, but theories range from hereditary factors and stress to problems with your immune system. Chasteberry extract is used to decrease symptoms of endometriosis; other treatments include taking oral contraceptives, using anti-inflammatory drugs, including ibuprofen, and making dietary changes such as increasing antioxidants and reducing refined foods--think white bread and sugar. Surgical procedures are sometimes recommended as well.
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal changes such as pregnancy and periods may contribute to breakouts of acne, and chasteberry is taken to alleviate symptoms. The National Institutes of Health says alternatives include over-the-counter acne medications, prescription drugs, and chemical and laser procedures.
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