Chasteberry Berry Extract; Dried
Also known as: Chasteberry, chaste tree berry extract, Vitex agnus-castus
Overview
Chasteberry extract is derived from the dried fruit of the *Vitex agnus-castus* L. plant, a traditional herbal remedy primarily used to alleviate female reproductive disorders. It is categorized as a phytotherapeutic agent, known for its hormonal modulating effects, particularly on prolactin and menstrual cycle regulation. The extract contains bioactive compounds, notably flavonoids like casticin, which contribute to its therapeutic actions through dopaminergic and opioidergic activities. Chasteberry is commonly used to address symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), mastalgia (breast pain), and mild hyperprolactinemia. Research supporting its efficacy includes several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, indicating a moderately mature evidence base. While generally well-regarded for its benefits in women's health, challenges remain in standardizing extracts and addressing methodological heterogeneity across studies.
Benefits
Chasteberry offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily for female reproductive health. Its most significant effect is the reduction of PMS symptoms; a meta-analysis of three high-quality RCTs involving 520 women demonstrated that chasteberry extract increased the likelihood of symptom remission by 2.57 times compared to placebo (95% CI 1.52–4.35), indicating a robust and clinically meaningful effect. It also shows positive effects on PMDD and mastalgia, although the evidence for these conditions is less extensive. Additionally, chasteberry may reduce mild hyperprolactinemia, potentially improving menstrual irregularities and fertility, though data in this area are limited and heterogeneous. Women with PMS or PMDD are the primary beneficiaries, often experiencing symptom relief after several weeks of continuous use, consistent with its hormonal modulation. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects, but their clinical relevance is not yet clear. Effects on menopausal symptoms remain inconclusive.
How it works
Chasteberry primarily exerts its effects by stimulating dopamine receptors, which leads to the inhibition of prolactin secretion from the pituitary gland. This action helps to normalize elevated prolactin levels, a common factor in PMS and hyperprolactinemia. The flavonoid casticin, a key bioactive compound in chasteberry, also contributes to symptom relief through opioidergic effects by activating mu- and delta-opioid receptors. Furthermore, chasteberry may indirectly modulate estrogen and progesterone receptors, contributing to the regulation and regularity of the menstrual cycle. The efficacy of chasteberry is dependent on the standardization of the extract, with specific preparations like Ze 440 and BNO 1095 used in clinical trials to ensure consistent delivery of bioactive compounds and optimal bioavailability.
Side effects
Chasteberry is generally considered safe with a low incidence of side effects in clinical trials. Common side effects, occurring in less than 5% of users, are rare but may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, can include headache or skin rash. Rare side effects (less than 1%) are not well documented but could potentially involve hormonal disturbances. Caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions: chasteberry may inhibit CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 enzymes in vitro, which could affect the metabolism of drugs processed by these pathways, though the clinical significance of this interaction is unclear. It may also interact with dopamine agonists and hormonal therapies, necessitating caution in patients using such medications. Chasteberry is contraindicated in individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers due to its potential phytoestrogenic properties. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid its use due to insufficient safety data in these populations.
Dosage
Effective doses of chasteberry in clinical trials typically range from 20 to 40 mg per day of a standardized extract, such as Ze 440. The minimum effective dose appears to be around 20 mg/day. Optimal dosing is highly dependent on the extract's standardization, and products used in well-conducted randomized controlled trials are generally preferred to ensure consistent bioactive compound delivery. The maximum safe dose has not been firmly established, and doses above 40 mg/day have not demonstrated increased efficacy, with limited safety data available for higher amounts. For optimal results, chasteberry should be taken daily, preferably at a consistent time, for at least 2–3 menstrual cycles to observe significant benefits. Absorption may be influenced by the formulation, and standardized extracts are crucial for consistent delivery. No specific cofactors are required, but monitoring hormonal status may be advisable.
FAQs
Is chasteberry safe for long-term use?
Generally, chasteberry is considered safe for long-term use, but extensive long-term safety data are limited. Periodic medical supervision is recommended for prolonged use.
How soon will I see results from taking chasteberry?
Symptom improvement typically begins to appear after 2–3 menstrual cycles of continuous use, as its effects involve hormonal modulation.
Can chasteberry be taken with hormonal contraceptives?
Caution is advised when taking chasteberry with hormonal contraceptives, as it may potentially reduce their effectiveness. Consult a healthcare provider.
Does chasteberry interact with other medications?
Yes, potential interactions exist with dopamine agonists, drugs metabolized by CYP450 enzymes (e.g., CYP2C19, CYP3A4), and other hormonal therapies. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Is chasteberry effective for menopausal symptoms?
The evidence supporting chasteberry's effectiveness for menopausal symptoms is weak and inconsistent, and it is not its primary indication.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31780016/ – This meta-analysis of three randomized controlled trials (n=520 women) found that Vitex agnus-castus significantly increased the likelihood of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptom remission by 2.57 times compared to placebo, demonstrating robust efficacy for PMS relief.
- https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/chasteberry – This source provides an overview of chasteberry, noting its traditional uses for female reproductive disorders and potential mechanisms of action. It also highlights some in vitro and animal studies suggesting anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects, while emphasizing the need for more clinical research.
- https://womensmentalhealth.org/posts/chasteberry-for-pms-and-pmdd/ – This article discusses the use of chasteberry for PMS and PMDD, acknowledging its reported positive effects. It suggests that while evidence supports its use for these conditions, it is sometimes combined with other agents, and further dedicated research for PMDD is beneficial.
- https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/s-0032-1327831.pdf – This systematic review of 12 randomized controlled trials on female reproductive disorders supports the efficacy of chasteberry in treating PMS, PMDD, and hyperprolactinemia. It also notes a good safety profile, though it points out heterogeneity in study design and extract standardization as limitations.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2023.1269781/full – This narrative review, incorporating clinical data from multiple small studies, suggests that Vitex agnus-castus may safely reduce mild hyperprolactinemia. However, it highlights the limitations of small sample sizes and heterogeneous methodologies, calling for more robust randomized controlled trials.
