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Chasteberry, scientifically known as Vitex agnus-castus, is a herbal remedy that has been used for centuries, particularly in the Mediterranean and Central Asia, for various female reproductive health issues. It is derived from the fruit of the chaste tree and is known for its potential benefits in alleviating symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menopause, and other gynaecological conditions. In recent years it has been used in supplements to support female health. This article will cover the science behind it, the benefits and whether you should consider using it.
Probably the most well-known and research-backed benefit of Chasteberry is reducing PMS symptoms. Several studies have demonstrated it’s effectiveness in alleviating symptoms such as
A meta-analysis of double-blind randomised controlled trials confirmed that women taking chasteberry were significantly more likely to experience a reduction in PMS symptoms compared to those taking a placebo [1]. Another study highlighted that chasteberry extract was superior to placebo in improving PMS symptoms, with a responder rate of 52% compared to 24% for placebo [3]. Alongside these studies, there is a significant amount of evidence to show positive benefits for improving PMS symptoms [2,4,5].
Chasteberry has been used to address various menstrual disorders, including cyclic mastalgia and luteal phase defects. It is believed to work by modulating hormonal levels, particularly by reducing prolactin secretion, which can help normalise menstrual cycles and alleviate breast pain [6, 7]. The herb's dopaminergic effects are thought to play a role in its ability to suppress prolactin secretion, thereby improving conditions like hyperprolactinemia.
For menopausal women, chasteberry is considered a natural alternative to aid certain symptoms. Chasteberry, along with other botanicals, has been suggested to have estrogenic and progestogenic activities, which may help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats [8] [9]. However, the evidence for its efficacy in this area is less robust compared to its use for PMS.
Chasteberry is also included in some fertility supplements due to its potential to improve reproductive health. A pilot study indicated that a nutritional supplement containing chasteberry showed a trend towards increasing progesterone levels and improving basal body temperature during the luteal phase, which are indicators of improved fertility [10, 11]. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
While chasteberry is generally considered safe, women need to be aware of potential interactions with other medications, particularly those affecting the pituitary gland. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its effects on prolactin levels. As with any herbal supplement, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting chasteberry, especially for women who are on other medications or have underlying health conditions.
Vitex agnus-castus supplements are based on the dry weight of the plant’s fruit. The standard dose is between 150-250mg. There are also two extractions of Vitex agnus-castus:
We use a high-dose extract to provide a 40mg dose.
Chasteberry offers several potential benefits for women's health, particularly in the management of PMS and certain menstrual disorders. Its use as a natural remedy for menopausal symptoms and fertility support is promising.
1. Csupor, D., Lantos, T., Hegyi, P., Benkő, R., Viola, R., Gyöngyi, Z., Csecsei, P., Tóth, B., Vasas, A., Márta, K., Rostás, I., Szentesi, A., & Matuz, M. Vitex agnus-castus in premenstrual syndrome: A meta-analysis of double-blind randomised controlled trials.. Complementary therapies in medicine. 2019; 47. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2019.08.024
2. Die, M., Burger, H., Teede, H., Bone, K., & Van Die, D. Vitex agnus-castus Extracts for Female Reproductive Disorders: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. Planta Medica. 2012; 79. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0032-1327831
4. Schellenberg R, Zimmermann C, Drewe J, Hoexter G, Zahner C. Dose-dependent efficacy of the Vitex agnus castus extract Ze 440 in patients suffering from premenstrual syndrome. Phytomedicine. 2012;19(14):1325-1331. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2012.08.006
5. C. Dennehy et al. "The use of herbs and dietary supplements in gynecology: an evidence-based review.." Journal of midwifery & women's health, 51 6 (2006): 402-9 . https://doi.org/10.1016/J.JMWH.2006.01.004
6. Liu, J., Burdette, J., Xu, H., Gu, C., Breemen, R., Bhat, K., Booth, N., Constantinou, A., Pezzuto, J., Fong, H., Farnsworth, N., & Bolton, J. Evaluation of estrogenic activity of plant extracts for the potential treatment of menopausal symptoms.. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry. 2001; 49 5. https://doi.org/10.1021/JF0014157
7. Momoeda M, Sasaki H, Tagashira E, Ogishima M, Takano Y, Ochiai K. Efficacy and safety of Vitex agnus-castus extract for treatment of premenstrual syndrome in Japanese patients: a prospective, open-label study. Adv Ther. 2014;31(3):362-373. doi:10.1007/s12325-014-0106-z
8. Westphal, L., Polan, M., Trant, A., & Mooney, S. A nutritional supplement for improving fertility in women: a pilot study. The Journal of reproductive medicine. 2004; 49 4.
9. Hajirahimkhan, A., Dietz, B., & Bolton, J. Botanical Modulation of Menopausal Symptoms: Mechanisms of Action? Planta Medica. 2013; 79. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0032-1328187
10. Chopin Lucks B. Vitex agnus castus essential oil and menopausal balance: a research update [Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery 8 (2003) 148-154]. Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery. 2003;9(3):157-160. doi:10.1016/S1353-6117(03)00020-9
11. van Die MD, Burger HG, Teede HJ, Bone KM. Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste-Tree/Berry) in the treatment of menopause-related complaints. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(8):853-862. doi:10.1089/acm.2008.0447
