Endometriosis is a female disorder in which the cells that normally line the uterus migrate outside of this organ, to other parts of the body. These endometrial cells react to hormonal levels in the body and behave as they would if they were still in the uterus, by increasing and then shedding in conjunction with the female's menstrual cycle. This activity can result in deposits and subsequent scarring. Chasteberry, an herb with a long history in the treatment of female reproductive disorders, may offer some relief, but clinical studies confirming its effects are lacking. See your doctor if you have symptoms of endometriosis, and use chasteberry only as part of a doctor-recommended treatment plan.
Chasteberry
Vitex agnus castus is the botanical name for the chasteberry tree that is native to the Mediterranean and southern Europe. Growers harvest the berries of the tree, which contain glycosides, flavonoids, volatile oils and fatty oils. Agnoside and aucubin, both glycosides, may be responsible for the herb's effect on female hormones, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines."
Potential Benefits
The benefits of chasteberry for treating the symptoms of endometriosis are anecdotal and include easing uterine pain and reducing swelling. The "PDR" says chasteberry may be dopaminergic, meaning it may increase dopamine levels in the brain, which, in turn, may help a woman relax. High estrogen levels can trigger endometriosis pain, and chasteberry may balance high levels by increasing the production of progesterone. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists chasteberry as potentially beneficial for treating endometriosis, but research verifying the herb's benefits is nonexistent.
Dosage and Method
Chasteberry is available in health food stores in capsules, tinctures and extracts, or in dried berry form, for use in making herbal tea. The "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" suggests preparing chasteberry tea by steeping 1 tsp. of berries in 1 cup of just-boiled water for 15 minutes. Strain and drink up to three cups per day for general female disorders. There is no specific dosage for treating endometriosis. Vitamin B-6 may increase the beneficial results when using chasteberry to treat PMS, but it is unclear whether the vitamin/herb combination will help endometriosis sufferers.
Considerations
The "Gale Encyclopedia" reports that the effects of chasteberry are cumulative and it may take up to six months of taking the herb regularly to see positive results. Do not take chasteberry if you're pregnant or breast-feeding, unless directed to do so by your doctor. Chasteberry does not contain plant estrogen, but women with breast cancer, uterine cancer or estrogen-sensitive tumors should not use the herb. In addition, do not use chasteberry if you're taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
Side effects are few, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia," but may include headaches, allergic rashes, nausea, changes in menstrual cycles and heavy bleeding in some women. Talk to your doctor before using chasteberry or any herbal remedy to treat a medical condition.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Endometriosis
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Edition"; Joerg Gruenwald, PhD, 2000
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
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