The herb Vitex agnus-castus, also known as monk's pepper or Chasteberry, is the fruit of the chaste tree. According to the American Family Physician, due to the effects chasteberry has on various hormones, particularly progesterone and prolactin, it has been used for centuries to treat many different hormone-related gynecologic conditions. Vitex agnus-castus may be helpful for some health conditions, but consult a doctor before starting any supplement program.
Premenstrual Syndrome
Women who suffer with premenstrual syndrome, commonly called PMS, experience a number of symptoms, both emotional and physical, every month from two to 14 days before their menstrual cycle. Typical symptoms include headaches, depression, stomach cramps, breast tenderness and mood swings. According to the University of Maryland, PMS may be due to high levels of estrogen or a deficiency in progesterone.
In a study published in a 2000 issue of the "Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics," researchers found Vitex agnus-castus helped to improve the symptoms of PMS.
The University of Maryland recommends 400 mg of a standardized extract of Vitex agnus-castus daily before breakfast to help PMS.
Women who suffer with PMS should consult a doctor before taking any Vitex agnus- castus supplements.
Hirsutism
Hirsutism, a condition where women develop excess facial and body hair, may be caused by excessive levels of male sex hormones called androgens. The most common symptom of hirsutism is hair growth on the upper lip, breast and stomach. Other symptoms can include acne, male pattern baldness and irregular menstrual periods.
According to the University of Maryland, Vitex agnus-castus has antiandrogenic effects and so may be useful for hirsutism. The University recommends 20 to 40 mg of a standardized extract daily.
Patients with hirsutism should consult a health care professional before taking any agnus-castus supplements.
Fibrocystic Breast Disease
Fibrocystic breast disease, sometimes called fibrocystic change, occurs when a benign change in the breast causes an irregular and bumpy consistency in the tissue. Symptoms include painful, tender, lumpy and swollen breasts.
Female hormones affect breast tissue, and hormonal changes through a women's menstrual cycle may cause fibrocystic breast disease.
In a study published in a 1999 issue of "Breast," researchers found that 30 drops of Vitex angus-castus daily helped to improve the symptoms of fibrocystic breast disease.
Patients with fibrocystic breast disease should consult a doctor before taking any agnus-castus supplements.
References
- American Family Physician: Chasteberry
- University of Maryland: Premenstrual syndrome
- "Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics": Efficacy of Vitex agnus castus L. extract Ze 440 in patients with premenstrual syndrome (PMS); D. Berger, W. Schaffner, E. Schrader et al; 2000
- University of Maryland: Hirsutism
- "Breast": Treatment of Cyclical Mastalgia With a Solution Containing a Vitex Agnus Castus Extract: Results of a Placebo-Controlled Double-blind Study: M. Halaska, P. Beles, C. Gorkow, C. Sieder C; 1999
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