Thought chasteberry flowers once were used to signal a woman’s virginity, today the plant aids women in more practical ways. Extracts from the fruit of the Vitex agnus-castus shrub appear to regulate a hormone released by the pituitary gland, helping to ease pain associated with a woman’s menstrual cycle. Because the botanical comes in different forms, whether it should be taken at mealtimes might not be clear. Always ask your physician before attempting any herbal self-healing.
Taking Chasteberry
No warnings exist regarding taking chasteberry either with food or on an empty stomach. The herb, also known as vitex, does interact with specific foods, vitamins and other botanicals. The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that because chasteberry is available in various preparations, including liquid and tablets, following label instructions for the specific product is best. One maker of a chasteberry and vitamin B-6 blend, for example, specifies that the product should be taken at mealtimes.
Dosage
As with decisions about taking chasteberry with food, the best instructions come from package information and your doctor. The AAFP notes that 20 to 40 milligrams of the extract is a common dosage, while for tinctures recommended doses are usually three daily intakes of about 40 drops. Fluid extracts are generally taken at a rate of 40 drops total each day.
Considerations
The side effects you might experience while taking chasteberry can influence whether you take the tablet at mealtimes. According to Drugs.com, some people experience digestive problems or dizziness after taking chasteberry. Experiment by taking chasteberry with food to determine if doing so helps your body absorb the botanical with fewer side effects.
Uses
Chasteberry is most frequently associated with easing some of the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, especially breast tenderness. According to New York University’s Langone Medical Center, chasteberry extract has been used for the purposes of reducing breast tenderness since the 1950s. Some women also have found relief from PMS-related symptoms such as headaches and mood swings, the medical center reports. Chasteberry also has been studied to regulate women’s monthly cycles and for infertility in women, but the results are less conclusive than for PMS symptoms.
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