Chasteberry Tea

Chasteberry is a shrub that is native to the Mediterranean region and some parts of Asia. You may see this plant being grown for ornamental purposes, as they produce upright clusters of aromatic flowers. These flowers develop brownish berries that resemble peppercorns. It is the berries of this plant that are highly valued as herbal medicine. Fully ripe berries are used for therapeutic purposes, both in fresh or dried form. Nowadays, you may find this herb in the form of liquid or solid extracts, tinctures, capsules, tablets, etc. It has been noted that this herb is commonly used in the form of tea.

Chasteberry Tea Benefits

Chasteberry (also known as Vitex agnus-castus) is a herb that is otherwise known as vitex, chaste tree, monk's pepper, etc. Earlier, it was believed that consumption of this herb is beneficial for reducing sexual desire and in remaining chaste. It is said that the wives of ancient Romans used to spread parts of this herb on their bed, when their husbands were away. Even the monks of the medieval ages used these berries for this purpose and hence the name, monk's pepper. Even though, there are conflicting theories about the effect of chasteberry on libido, it is said to be highly effective in treating a wide range of gynecological problems. In fact, this herb is also referred to as women's herb. Today, this herb is available in many different forms and is used to treat gynecological problems. Chasteberry is mostly consumed in the form of herbal tea.

• According to some studies, chasteberry contains several flavonoids and alkaloids, that jointly act to balance female hormones. This prevents the problems associated with hormonal imbalance in women.
• It is also said that chasteberry is highly effective in countering the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and other menstrual problems, like, breast pain, heavy bleeding, irregular or absent menstrual cycles, menstrual pain and cramps, etc.
• This herbal tea is also used for treating endometriosis, menopausal symptoms, fibrocystic breasts, etc. You might have heard about the link between chasteberry tea and fertility. This herb is said to be useful in boosting fertility, lactation, etc. Some people use it as an effective herbal remedy for recurrent yeast infections.
• In some regions, this herb is used to treat acne, migraine headaches, anxiety, depression, stomach upset, etc. It is believed that topical application of chasteberry is beneficial for warding off insects and other parasites.
• This herb is also found to be used or treating Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), uterine fibroids and prostate problems. It is said to be effective in preventing a miscarriage. Chasteberry is also used for reducing the frequency of epileptic seizures.

For making chasteberry tea, all you have to do is to steep a teaspoon of dried or fresh berries in a cup of boiling water, for around ten minutes. After that, strain the tea and use it with honey (optional).

While, there are some studies that indicate that drinking chasteberry tea may be effective for treating conditions associated with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, etc, there is no evidence to prove most of the other so-called benefits of this herb. Even though, chasteberry is not reported to cause serious side effects, make sure to use this herb as per the instructions of a qualified herbal practitioner. You have to stick to the prescribed dosage and other instructions. The possible chasteberry tea side effects are stomach upset, other gastrointestinal problems, skin rash, dizziness, weight gain, insomnia, etc. As this herb can affect the hormone levels, it is better for pregnant and lactating women not to use it. The same advice goes for those taking birth control pills and those with any hormone-related condition (like breast and uterine cancer). Even those using medications with relation to dopamine, should not use tea of chasteberry.