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Herbal Extract

Chasteberry Extract

Also known as: Vitex agnus-castus, Vitex, monk's pepper, chaste tree

C
Evidence

A traditional herbal extract from the chasteberry fruit used primarily for hormonal balance and menstrual cycle support. Moderate clinical evidence suggests potential benefit for menstrual symptoms, though high-quality RCTs remain limited.

Primary uses

  • Menstrual cycle regularity
  • PMS symptom relief
  • Breast tenderness
  • Hormonal balance
  • Fertility support

How it works

  • Believed to influence dopamine and prolactin regulation
  • May modulate luteinizing hormone (LH) release
  • Potential progesterone-supportive effects
  • Anti-inflammatory properties
  • Mechanisms not fully elucidated in humans

Dosage

Typical range
400-500 mg daily (equivalent to 500 mg chasteberry; 1:1 extract as noted)
Timing
Morning or with breakfast
With food
May be taken with or without food
Duration
Typically requires 3-6 months of consistent use for full benefit; effects may persist after discontinuation
Special populations
Not recommended during pregnancy or lactation; avoid if taking dopamine agonists or antipsychotics

Forms

  • 1:1 extract· 70/100
  • standardized extract· 70/100
  • dried berry· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

  • Mild gastrointestinal upset
  • Headache (rare)
  • Dizziness (rare)
  • Generally well-tolerated

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and lactation (traditional precaution; limited safety data)
  • Hormone-sensitive conditions (theoretical concern; limited evidence)
  • Concurrent dopamine antagonist medications

Evidence notes

Several moderate-quality trials and systematic reviews suggest benefit for PMS and menstrual symptoms, but evidence quality is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous outcomes, and lack of large RCTs. Mechanism of action remains incompletely understood.

Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.