Chasteberry Extract

Chasteberry is a plant with aromatic leaves and flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region, this shrub is also found in certain parts of Africa and Asia. This plant produces upright clusters of bluish violet flowers and so it can be often found to be grown for ornamental purposes. Even though the leaves and flowers of chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) are used for medicinal purposes, it is the berries that are highly valued as herbal medicine. The brownish berries of this plant resemble peppercorns in appearance and are used both in fresh or dried form. It is said that this plant has been used for medicinal purposes for a very long time. Even the ancient Greeks and Romans are believed to have used chasteberry for therapeutic purposes. Today, chasteberry is widely used in the form of liquid extract, powder, capsules and tincture.

Chasteberry Extract Uses

Chasteberry is one of those plants that have been used through the centuries for its so-called medicinal properties. The name chasteberry is derived from the ancient belief that this herb can reduce sexual desire and help to remain chaste. It is said that the wives of ancient Roman soldiers used chasteberry for this purpose. Even the monks of the Middle Ages are said to have used chasteberry for the same purpose. That's why chasteberry is also known as monk's pepper. The berries are consumed as such or in the form of chasteberry tea. Nowadays, you may find this herbal medicine in the form of powder, extract, capsules and tincture While there is no scientific evidence to prove that use of chasteberry is beneficial for reducing libido, according to some others, this herbal remedy is useful in increasing sexual desire. Whatever it may be, chasteberry is now widely used to treat gynecological problems.

As stated above, chasteberry is believed to be highly beneficial in treating gynecological problems and so is referred to as women's herb. It is said to be effective in countering premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and the related symptoms. So, it is used for treating heavy bleeding, breast pain, menstrual pain and irregular cycles. You might have heard about the use of chasteberry extract for cramps associated with menstruation. Chasteberry tree extract is also believed to be useful in treating hormonal imbalance in women. It is said that the flavonoids and alkaloids in this herb jointly act to maintain regular hormone levels. Some people use this herb in treating fibrocystic breasts, endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Chasteberry is said to boost the progesterone levels that is found to be hindered in women with PCOS and certain other gynecological conditions like menopause. So, this herb is also used in boosting fertility, preventing miscarriage, and to treat recurrent yeast infections. Even high levels of prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) is said to be treated with chasteberry extract. Some people use it for treating migraines, anxiety and depression. In some regions, this extract is used for treating prostate problems too. While chasteberry is found to be useful in some of the above mentioned conditions like PMS, its effectiveness in countering menopause symptoms, PCOS and prostate problems, are still under evaluation.

Does Chasteberry Extract Cause Side Effects?

Even though chasteberry is not found to cause significant side effects in its users, some of them may experience mild itching and rashes. Other side effects of chasteberry extract include nausea, headache and changes in the menstrual cycles. This extract must be avoided by pregnant women. Even those who are taking hormone replacement therapy or other products with synthetic hormones (like birth control pills), must avoid chasteberry. It has also been noted that women with uterine or breast cancer should avoid use of this herbal medicine.

In short, chasteberry is a herb that is being used for treating certain gynecological problems. Even though it is considered as a safe herb, it is always advisable to use it as per the instructions of a qualified herbal practitioner. You may also seek the opinion of your doctor before starting with herbal treatment using chasteberry extract. Make sure to intimate the herbal practitioner about your medical history and the medications you are using.