BellyBytes.com

Chasteberry is the fruit of the chaste tree, a small shrub-like tree native to Central Asia and the Mediterranean region. The name is thought to come from a belief that the plant promoted chastity--it is reported that monks in the Middle Ages used chasteberry to decrease sexual desire.

Common Names -- chasteberry, chaste-tree berry, vitex, monk's pepper

• Chasteberry has been used for thousands of years, mostly by women to ease menstrual problems and to stimulate the production of breast milk. chasteberry does so by helping the body increase its own natural levels of progesterone.
• Chasteberry is still used for menstrual problems, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), as well as for symptoms of menopause, some types of infertility, and acne. In Europe, chasteberry is a standard treatment for premenstrual syndrome.

The dried ripe chasteberry is used to prepare liquid extracts or solid extracts that are put into capsules and tablets.

A few studies of chasteberry for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) have found a benefit. However, most of these studies were not well designed, so firm conclusions about chasteberry for PMS have not yet been scientifically drawn. Small studies suggest that chasteberry may help with breast pain and some types of infertility, as scientific studies seek more evidence to determine the precise effect chasteberry has on these conditions. PMS by Vitabase is highly recommended. It contains vitamins and minerals that support the female glandular system, in addition to GLA, Dong quai and chasteberry to help relieve uncomfortable PMS symptoms naturally.

• Chasteberry has not been associated with serious side effects. However, it can cause gastrointestinal problems, acne-like rashes, and dizziness.
• Chasteberry may affect certain hormone levels. Women who are pregnant or taking birth control pills or who have a hormone-sensitive condition (such as breast cancer) should not use chasteberry.
• Because chasteberry may affect the dopamine system in the brain, people taking dopamine-related medications, such as selegiline, amantadine, and levodopa, should avoid chasteberry.
• Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

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