Also known as vitex or monk's pepper, the medicinal herb chasteberry has been used for centuries to improve reproductive health and hormone balance in women. Historically, folk healers have used chaste tree berry as a naturopathic treatment for breast pain, infertility, pregnancy-related complications and sexual dysfunction. Despite its long-standing history of use, chaste tree berry remains under-researched, and scientists have not conclusively evaluated the role it plays in conception or fertility. Consult an obstetrician or midwife who is familiar with botanical medicine before using the berry of the chaste tree.
Benefits for Conception
Chaste tree berry might help women cope with certain types of infertility. According to a 2005 report by the American Academy of Family Physicians, chaste tree berry is approved in Germany as a treatment for luteal phase defects, which are reproductive abnormalities that cause the lining of the uterus to thin early in a menstrual cycle. The AAFP notes that limited evidence supports this use, and that more studies are needed to confirm its efficacy. Chaste tree berry has also been used to ease hormonal fluctuations associated with polycystic ovary syndrome.
Hormonal Effects
Because of its hormone-altering effects, chaste tree berry is rarely recommended for use during pregnancy. Obstetricians and midwives generally recommend that a pregnant woman stop taking chaste tree berry supplements when she becomes pregnant. The AAFP and National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine both warn against the use of chaste tree berry during pregnancy, citing its under-researched effects on fetal development. In theory, chaste tree berry might increase the risk of preterm labor or miscarriage or it could alter a fetus's developing endocrine system.
Misconceptions
Despite its popular folk use, no evidence indicates that chaste tree berry can prevent pregnancy complications such as miscarriage or preterm birth. The AAFP and NCCAM acknowledge human studies have not evaluated chaste tree berry's effect on pregnancy after conception and implantation have occurred. Chaste tree berry could actually worsen these conditions. Until further studies have taken place, it is prudent to avoid chaste tree berry supplements after you become pregnant.
Influence on Lactation
The NCCAM acknowledges the historic use of chaste tree berry as a galactagogue, or an herb used to stimulate the production of breast milk. This use remains popular but controversial. The AAFP states that insufficient evidence is available to prove the safety or efficacy of chaste tree berry for nursing mothers, and it is not clear whether compounds in the plant affect a nursing baby. Contact your postpartum health care provider and your baby's pediatrician before using any herb while breast-feeding a newborn.
Side Effects
Despite concerns regarding its safety during pregnancy, the NCCAM notes that chaste tree berry rarely causes serious side effects. The most common complaints associated with chaste tree berry include upset stomach, acne and dizziness. Additionally, chaste tree berry's hormonal effects could encourage the growth of hormone-sensitive tumors so it is best to avoid these supplements if you have a personal or family history of breast cancer. Consult a physician promptly if you experience side effects while using chaste tree berry, especially if you are pregnant or trying to conceive.
