Agnus castus, which is known botanically as Vitex agnus castus and more commonly as chasteberry, has a long history of use in treating female disorders. Historically, medieval nuns used the herb as a uterine tonic, while monks found it valuable for suppressing their unwanted sexual appetites. Agnus castus may relieve some of the symptoms of PMS, but the FDA does not regulate herbal remedies, so there is no assurance of their efficiency or quality. Visit your doctor before using any herbal remedy to treat a medical condition.
PMS
Many females experience PMS symptoms associated with the start of their monthly cycle, including moodiness, headache, temporary weight gain, breast swelling and tenderness and cramping. The actual cause of premenstrual syndrome is unknown, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, but the risk of PMS symptoms increases with a family history of depression or mood disorders, postpartum depression, elevated stress levels and painful menstruation.
Constituents
Although Agnus castus does not contain phytoestrogen, it does contain other hormones, including androstenedione, testosterone, hydroxyprogesterone, progesterone and epitestosterone, which may be beneficial in treating PMS symptoms. Other components in agnus castus include essential oils, glycosides and alkaloid. The berries of the tree are often used in herbal remedies to treat PMS, but the highest concentration of hormones is found in the flowers and the leaves.
Potential PMS Benefits
Kathy Abascal, B.C, author of "Botanical Medicine for Women's Health," suggests that regular use of agnus castus can balance a woman's hormones and relieve many PMS symptoms by boosting deficient progesterone levels. Abascal also suggests that use of the herb can reduce teen acne related to a female's menstrual cycle. Clinical studies confirming these benefits are lacking, however.
Dosage/Method
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 400 mg of agnus castus daily, before eating breakfast, to reduce PMS headache, breast tenderness and moodiness. In liquid extract form, Abascal suggests taking up to 5mL of agnus castus in the morning, starting a few days before your expected period and continuing until your period ends. Alternatively, you may pour a cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of dried agnus castus herb and steep for 10 minutes before straining. Sweeten with honey, if desired.
Considerations
See your doctor to rule out an underlying condition if PMS symptoms are severe or if your periods are irregular. Because agnus castus can affect hormonal levels, use this herb only under the supervision of a doctor.
References
- "Botanical Medicine for Women's Health"; Kathy Abascal, B.C, J.D, Herbalist R.H, et al., 2010
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Premenstrual Syndrome
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