What is Chasteberry used for?
Chasteberry is used widely to treat infertility and for relief of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. Laboratory analysis has shown that chasteberry contains hormonal precursors that can prompt hormone changes within the body by activating those receptors.
Why is it called Chasteberry?
A popular way of taking Vitex is on awakening as a simple 1:1 fluid extract, which is said to interact with hormonal circadian rhythms most effectively. In ancient times, it was believed to be an anaphrodisiac, hence the name chaste tree.
What is chasteberry fruit?
Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus), or monk’s pepper, is the fruit of the chaste tree. It is native to western Asia and southwestern Europe, and is now common in much of the southeastern United States.
What is another name for chaste tree?
Chaste tree is a shrub that bears violet flowers and berries. It’s also called vitex agnus-castus.
Who should not take chasteberry?
Chasteberry can affect levels of hormones that play a key role in pregnancy, breastfeeding, menstruation, and even some breast cancers. You should not take chasteberry if you: Are pregnant or breastfeeding. Have breast cancer.
Does chaste tree balance hormones?
Studies show that chaste berry extract can help balance hormones. When used consistently, women will benefit from improved periods, mood, and even fertility.
Does Vitex increase estrogen?
Vitex significantly increased the estrogen level in the Vitex + d-galactose group, compared to the d-galactose group (p < 0.05). Vitex also significantly increased the estrogen level in the Vitex + Aging group, compared to the Aging group (p < 0.05; Fig. 1C).
How does Chaste Tree affect hormones?
Although exact mechanism is not known, Chaste tree presumably works by decreasing follicle-stimulating hormone release. Lowering of follicle-stimulating hormones increases progesterone-to-estrogen ratio, giving relief from menstrual and menopausal symptoms.
Do you take chasteberry during your period?
Chasteberry has consistently shown promise in relieving symptoms in women with PMS. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 178 women found that treatment with chasteberry over three menstrual cycles significantly reduced general PMS symptoms. The dose used was 1 tablet 3 times daily of a dry chasteberry extract.
Can chasteberry cause weight gain?
Potential Side Effects While side effects are rare, the following can potentially occur after ingestion of the herb: allergic reaction, dizziness, constipation, weight gain, hair loss, heavy periods, and insomnia.
How often should I take Chasteberry?
Most clinical trials used a dose of 20-40 mg/day although some clinical trials have used doses as high as 1800 mg/day. Problems associated with elevated prolactin may need higher doses.
Can Vitex bring on period?
Studies have shown vitex extremely helpful in bringing back the menstrual cycle in women with absent periods due to eating disorders and lack of menstruation due to breastfeeding.
Does Vitex help with heavy periods?
A study in the Aromatic Medical Center showed that vitex agnus reduced bleeding. A research on 57 women with severe menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) who were treated with vitex agnus drops showed that 40 patients after the period of treatment had significantly been improved.
Can Vitex cause weight gain?
When taken by mouth: Vitex agnus-castus fruit extract is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken appropriately for up to 3 months. Uncommon side effects include upset stomach, nausea, rash, headaches, acne, trouble sleeping, and weight gain.
Can Vitex be harmful?
Vitex agnus-castus, or chasteberry, may boost fertility and reduce symptoms of PMS and menopause. It may also repel certain insects. Most other uses are currently unsupported by science. It may cause stomach discomfort and other mild side effects, but it’s considered safe for most people.
How much vitex is safe?
Doctors typically suggest 40 drops of a liquid, concentrated vitex extract or 35–40 mg of the equivalent dried, powdered extract to be taken once per day in the morning with some liquid. Vitex should be taken for at least three menstrual cycles to determine efficacy.
Does Vitex help with depression?
According to the results of this study, Vitex agnus-castus reduced depression in postmenopausal women compared to placebo, which is consistent with studies in which Black cohosh and Valerian were effective in the treatment of postmenopausal depression (11-13).
Can dim make you depressed?
“Even dim light at night is sufficient to provoke depressive-like behaviors in hamsters,” Bedrosian concluded. After processing the hamsters’ brains, the researchers found changes to the brain structure and chemistry of the depressed hamsters.
Does dim help with depression?
In addition to muscular development, enhanced free testosterone levels, along with DIM, can improve mood, fight depression, and support memory.