Chasteberry, also called Chinese vitex, vitex Agnus-castus and hemp tree, is an herbal medicine made from the fruit and seed of the chaste tree. Taking chasteberry supplements may help women suffering from various conditions because it may affect hormone levels in the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the manufacturing or distribution of chasteberry and does not guarantee the safety of the products. Always consult a health care professional before taking any herbal supplements to treat a medical condition.
Premenstrual Syndrome
Premenstrual syndrome, also referred to as PMS, is a group of symptoms that may occur in conjunction with the menstrual cycle. Changes in hormone levels may cause the symptoms of PMS to occur one to two weeks before menstruation begins. Common symptoms of PMS include breast tenderness, acne, mood swings, gastrointestinal distress and appetite changes. Some women may find relief from some PMS symptoms after taking chasteberry supplements. Taking 400 mg of the chaste tree extract before breakfast may help reduce symptoms such as irritable moods and breast tenderness, but does not help relieve bloating, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. You may need to take the supplement for up to three months before noticing any changes.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, also referred to as PMDD, is a condition similar to PMS, but with more severe symptoms. The symptoms of PMDD mirror PMS, with the addition of more severe emotional or behavioral symptoms, such as feeling anxious, angry and persistently irritable, according to The National Women's Health Information Center. Taking chasteberry supplements may help lessen the frequency and severity of your PPMD symptoms.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a medical condition that occurs when the cells that normally line the inside of the uterus begin to grow on the outside of the uterus and on other areas of your pelvis and abdomen. Symptoms of endometriosis include menstrual pain, heavy menstruation and pain during sexual intercourse. This condition may also cause infertility problems. Taking 400 mg of chasteberry each morning may help treat endometriosis, especially when taken for at least 12 to 18 months, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Additional Uses
In addition to the traditional uses, taking chasteberry extract may help improve other conditions such as acne. You may need to take the supplement for at least six months before noticing an improvement in acne, according to RxList. The herbal supplement may also help increase milk production for women who breastfeed an infant. After taking the supplement for seven months, chasteberry may help a woman with low progesterone levels get pregnant.
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