Vitex agnus-castus, or chasteberry, is an herb that has been used for thousands of years, mainly by women, to help with a variety of hormone-related conditions. It is a great example of a medicinal plant with a rich history that is currently being examined seriously by the mainstream medical profession. As with any herb or herbal supplement, consult with a health care professional before using vitex agnus-castus.
Hormonal Effects of Vitex
The pituitary and hypothalamus glands are responsible for the production of many hormones, several of which are directly related to sexual and reproductive function. "It appears that chasteberry extract has profound effects on the hypothalamus and on pituitary function. As a result, it is able to normalize the secretion of other hormones like reducing prolactin levels or balancing the estrogen and progesterone ratio," according to Drs. Murray and Pizzorno, authors of the popular "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine."
For Women
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vitex agnus-castus is mostly used in modern times for menstrual problems, menopause, infertility, acne and increasing the production of breast milk. Many herbalists throughout history have also utilized vitex after childbirth to tone the uterus, helping it to return to normal size. Female gynecological problems are generally related to an unbalanced state of hormones, and many of these conditions may be helped by the use of vitex, which may balance the estrogen-progesterone ratio, offering some relief of symptoms.
For Men
Historically this herb has been used to lessen the sexual desires of men, hence the name “chasteberry.” Men of the cloth have used it for centuries, giving it yet another name, “monk’s pepper.” Vitex is still a traditional stew herb used in Italian monasteries.
Scientific Findings
Vitex has been proven to be helpful in relieving breast tenderness in particular. A trial published in the May 2003 issue of “Phytomedicine” concluded that compounds present in vitex agnus-castus are “clinically the important compounds that improve premenstrual mastodynia and possibly also other symptoms of the premenstrual syndrome.”
"The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine" states that research has also shown that vitex can aid healing in men with hypertrophic prostate syndrome due to its hormonal effects.
Administration
Vitex is available in several forms--powder, liquid extracts, teas and dried berries. It can be found in most natural food stores or where most herbs are sold. According to Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac., a master herbalist, this herb takes time to work, and it should be administered for at least a month for efficacy. Take the amount indicated on the package or by your herbalist. Hobbs also recommends taking it in a four-month cycle with a break of a day or two every ten days, to give the body a chance to rest and catch up with the herb's effects.
Precautions
According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Medical Center, there have been proven interactions with vitex and medications used in hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives and dopamine antagonists. Use vitex with care in cases where any of these prescriptions are being taken.
References
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: About Herbs - Chasteberry
- Christopher Hobbs L.Ac., A.H.G.
- “Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine”; Murray, Michael, ND and Joseph Pizzorno, ND; 1998
- “Phytomedicine”; Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus); Wuttke W, et al.; 2003
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