1. With a Name Like Chaste
Like its name implies, chasteberry treats conditions associated with the reproductive system. In the past monks chewed chasteberry leaves to help them maintain their vow of celibacy. Chasteberry helps relieve PMS symptoms and regulate menstruation in women struggling with infertility. Because chasteberry helps to regulate the menstrual cycles it's a good choice for couples trying to conceive. Although the scientific evidence is inconclusive about Chasteberry and PMS or infertility, many people find it a beneficial treatment for both conditions.
2. Hormone Help
Chasteberry isn't a hormone, but it does help with hormone production. This is especially true with the hormone prolactin which is involved in milk production. That's why chasteberry eases breast tenderness and is especially beneficial for women with fibrocystic breasts. Chasteberry stimulates the pituitary gland to limit the production of prolactin. This eases breast pain associated with premenstrual syndrome. The usual dosage to treat PMS symptoms is 400 to 500 milligrams daily in one or two doses. If you experience gastrointestinal problems associated with chasteberry, try taking half a dose twice daily with food.
3. Good-bye Hot Flashes
Chasteberry has other hormonal benefits as well. It affects the levels of progesterone and other hormones associated with the irritability and depression of PMS. Is also helps with bloating. Because of all these hormonal benefits, chasteberry is a popular ingredient in some women's vitamins and supplements. Don't use chasteberry indefinitely. Most doctors recommend using it for no longer than 4 to 6 months for PMS and up to one year for infertility treatment. Most women experience symptom improvement after about 3 months, but for some it may take up to 6 months for full benefit.
4. Not Just for PMS
Chasteberry is a good option for women watching their cholesterol. It is a powerful antioxidant and helps repair cell damage. Chasteberry can also help with migraine headaches as it improves overall blood circulation in the body. As with any herb, check with your doctor before using, especially if you're taking any other medications.
5. Chasteberry Side Effects
Chasteberry doesn't have many serious side effects. Some people experience a facial rash when taking chasteberry, and others may have some gastrointestinal problems. Some people also report some dizziness when taking chasteberry. Even though it isn't a hormone, it does affect hormone levels. So, women taking medication related to hormone production or those with hormone sensitive conditions like breast cancer should not use chasteberry.
Member Comments