Hormones, Fertility, and Menopause: What Science Says About Chasteberry’s Effects
Chasteberry, sometimes known as “false pepper,” is a plant from the Verbenaceae family. Its fruits and seeds are cultivated to produce therapeutic medicines.
What Are the Qualities of Chasteberry?
Chasteberry is thought to have the ability to impact hormone levels that regulate the female reproductive cycle. As a result, it is believed to be beneficial in cases of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a more severe form of PMS.
Supplements containing chasteberry have also been advocated for irregular menstrual cycles, menopausal symptoms, breast cysts, female infertility, and miscarriage prevention in cases of low progesterone levels. Furthermore, it is proposed for preventing hemorrhages, aiding in placenta expulsion after childbirth, and improving mammary gland milk supply.
Chasteberry pills have also been used to treat acne, anxiousness, dementia, joint difficulties, colds, stomach issues, spleen abnormalities, migraines, eye pain, and inflammation. Finally, chasteberry is sometimes recommended for males to promote urine flow, alleviate benign prostatic hyperplasia, and decrease sexual desire.
However, it does not appear that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has accepted any claims to support these proposed uses.
Warnings and Possible Contraindications of Chasteberry
Taking chasteberry supplements may interact with the contraceptive pill, estrogens, antipsychotics, dopamine antagonists, and metoclopramide.
Chasteberry may interfere with hormone levels (particularly estrogen), making it unsuitable for conditions sensitive to hormonal fluctuations, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and some forms of cancer (breast, uterine, and ovarian). Additionally, chasteberry may reduce the effectiveness of in vitro fertilization techniques.
Finally, chasteberry may be contraindicated in cases of Parkinson’s, schizophrenia, or insanity. If in doubt, consult your doctor.
