Common Names: chasteberry, chaste tree, monk's pepper, vitex, gattilier

Botanical Name: Vitex agnus-castus

Background

• Chasteberry, also known as the chaste tree, is native to parts of the Mediterranean and central Asia. Its flower, leaf, seed, and stem are used in herbal preparations.

• Historically, the name "chasteberry" is linked to a belief that the plant helped restrain sexual desire. During medieval times, monks reportedly used it for this purpose. Traditionally, it was also used to address women's health concerns, mental health issues, and hormone-related skin problems.

• Today, chasteberry is commonly taken as a supplement to relieve symptoms such as PMS, menstrual-related breast discomfort, menopause symptoms, infertility, and other hormonal imbalances.

How Much Do We Know?

• There have been several smaller studies evaluating the effects of chasteberry on PMS, mainly targeting symptoms like breast discomfort. However, its effectiveness for other health concerns is not strongly supported by current evidence.

• Available safety information suggests chasteberry might not be appropriate for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast or ovarian cancer. Early studies also raise concerns about its use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

What Have We Learned?

• Some findings suggest chasteberry may ease PMS-related breast pain or sensitivity. However, more rigorous research is required to confirm this benefit.

• Limited evidence has indicated it might help reduce menstrual bleeding caused by intrauterine devices (IUDs), but the overall study quality was low.

• There’s not enough reliable data yet to determine whether chasteberry is effective for treating infertility or sexual health issues. It is also likely unsafe during pregnancy.

• One preliminary study has hinted at potential relief for menopause-related symptoms, but further investigation is necessary.

• Lab studies suggest possible antifungal effects from some chasteberry compounds, though human trials are still needed in this area.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• Chasteberry appears safe for short-term use. Studies have used it for up to three months with minimal side effects, which may include upset stomach, nausea, headache, itching, or mild digestive issues.

• Individuals with hormone-sensitive medical conditions, such as cancers of the breast or uterus, are advised to avoid chasteberry.

• It is not recommended to use chasteberry during pregnancy or while nursing due to limited safety data.

Keep in Mind

• Always consult your healthcare provider when considering any herbal product. Open communication ensures the safest and most effective approach to your health.

• Herbal supplements may interact with medications, potentially causing side effects. Discuss any products you are taking with your healthcare provider.

• Herbal products are treated differently than prescription drugs in the United States. Dietary supplements do not require approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before being sold. The responsibility for ensuring their safety and accurate labeling falls on the manufacturers and distributors.

• If safety issues are identified, the FDA has authority to act to safeguard public health. However, herbal products are not tested by the FDA in the same way as pharmaceutical drugs.

For More Information

• Tips for Using Dietary Supplements Smartly

• Understanding How Supplements and Medications May Interact

• How To Read and Understand Studies from Scientific Journals

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Key References

• Chasteberry. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

• Chaste Tree. LiverTox: Information on Drug-Induced Liver Damage. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

• Christelle K et al. Cochrane Review on treatments for IUD-related bleeding and pain. 2022.

• Csupor D et al. An analysis of Vitex agnus-castus in PMS. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2019.

• Heirati SFD et al. Study on Vitex’s effect on sexual health. Journal of Education and Health Promotion. 2021.

• Höller M et al. Study of Vitex for menstrual issues. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2024.

• Islam Z et al. Study on antimicrobial potential of the Vitex genus. Plants. 2024.

• Kamal N et al. Review on Vitex species and their uses. Plants. 2022.

• Mahady GB et al. Chaste Tree entry in Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements. 2010.

• Manouchehri A et al. Herbal treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome. JBRA Assisted Reproduction. 2023.

• Mendes C et al. Review of Vitex in gynecological care. Revista da Associacao Medica Brasileira. 2022.

• Naseri R et al. Comparison of Vitex and placebo for menopause symptom relief. Korean Journal of Family Medicine. 2019.

• Ooi SL et al. Meta-analysis of Vitex for breast pain. Journal of Women’s Health. 2020.

• Puglia LT et al. Study on Vitex and hormone levels. Frontiers in Endocrinology. 2023.

• Rashidipour M et al. Iranian plants with vaginal antifungal properties. Infectious Disorders Drug Targets. 2022.

• Vitex agnus-castus. Information from Natural Medicines Database.

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The information provided is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. The inclusion of specific products or substances does not imply any endorsement.