Chaste berries, the tiny berries of the chaste tree, or Agnus castus, have a long history of use in treating women's reproductive disorders. Also known as vitex, the chaste tree takes its name from vestal virgins who once worn the leaves as a symbol of their purity. Today, chasteberry is used as an ingredient in herbal teas and products designed to regulate the menstrual cycle, increase fertility and ease the symptoms of PMS. While the berries may be of benefit, consult your doctor before using them to treat any medical condition.
Chasteberry: The Herb
Growers harvest the small berries and dry them for sale as a bulk herb or grind them into a powder for use in capsules, extracts and topical products. The berries contain essential oils, alkaloids and glycosides. But, it's the presence of progesterone and testosterone that may be of use in treating menstrual issues, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine."
Premenstrual Syndrome/Cramps
Once thought to be a female's imagination, doctors now know that not only is PMS real, it also causes symptoms that range from mild to moderate. They may include moodiness, breast tenderness and swelling, water retention and headache. Some females also experience cramping at the start of their periods, which can be severe. Herbal products that contain chasteberry may regulate hormonal imbalances to ease PMS symptoms.
Fertility
Just because you have a regular menstrual cycle doesn't mean you'll conceive as soon as you start trying. Chasteberry may be beneficial in balancing a woman's progesterone levels, giving her a better chance of getting pregnant, according to CoxHealth.com. Clinical studies are necessary to confirm this benefit. See your doctor before using any herbal remedy to treat infertility.
Considerations
The use of chasteberry is generally safe, according to "Herbs & Natural Supplements: An Evidence-based Guide," and any side effects are usually mild. These may include headache, indigestion, nausea, rash, acne and menstrual disorders. Do not exceed the recommended dosage on the package.
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not take chasteberry, unless directed to do so by their doctors. Women may not see benefits for up to three months. Irregular periods, severe PMS and infertility may signal an underlying condition. See your doctor before treating any medical disorder with chasteberry.
References
- Cox Health: Vitex
- "Herbs & Natural Supplements: An Evidence-based Guide"; Leslie Braun, 2007
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
