What is chaste tree?
Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as monk's pepper, is a Mediterranean shrub renowned for its hormonal and female cycle-regulating properties. Used since ancient times in phytotherapy, it is particularly appreciated for its action on menstrual disorders, fertility and menopause. Its berries and leaves contain active compounds that act on hormone production, notably progesterone.
What are the benefits of chasteberry?
Chaste tree is a hormone-regulating plant with multiple benefits for women's health:
Regulates the menstrual cycle: It promotes a regular cycle by stimulating progesterone secretion.
Relieves premenstrual syndrome (PMS): Alleviates breast pain, bloating, headaches and irritability.
Improves fertility: by balancing the estrogen/progesterone ratio, it optimizes ovulation.
Reduces menopausal symptoms: Reduces hot flashes, insomnia and mood swings.
Helps combat hormonal acne: its anti-androgenic action regulates sebum production.
Soothes stress-related disorders: It acts on dopamine, promoting better emotional balance.
How to use chaste tree in phytotherapy?
Chasteberry is available in several forms, adapted to each woman's needs:
Capsules or tablets: For a targeted hormonal cure, ideal for premenstrual syndrome, cycle disorders or menopause.
Infusion: Dried berries for gentle hormone regulation.
Mother tincture: A concentrated form, effective against hormonal acne and menstrual disorders.
As an essential oil: dilute in vegetable oil and apply to the lower abdomen to relieve menstrual pain.
Tip: For a regulating infusion, steep 1 teaspoon of dried berries in 250 ml of hot water for 10 minutes.
Is chasteberry effective against premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?
Yes, chasteberry is one of the best herbs for relieving PMS symptoms, including :
Breast pain and tension.
Bloating and water retention.
Irritability and anxiety linked to hormonal variations.
Its action is progressive, becoming apparent after 3 to 6 weeks of regular use.
Does chaste tree help with pregnancy?
Yes, Chasteberry promotes fertility by :
Regulating the menstrual cycle and facilitating regular ovulation.
Supporting the production of progesterone, essential for embryo implantation.
Reducing hyperprolactinemia, which can disrupt hormonal balance and ovulation.
It is often recommended for women with hormonal imbalances or irregular cycles.
Is chasteberry useful against hormonal acne?
Yes, thanks to its anti-androgenic action, chaste tree helps reduce :
Excess sebum, responsible for skin eruptions.
Period-related acne, often aggravated by excess estrogen.
Persistent blemishes, especially on the chin and jawline.
It works by balancing hormones, with noticeable effectiveness after 1 to 3 months' use.
How long does chaste tree need to be taken to have an effect?
The effects of chasteberry generally appear after 4 to 8 weeks of treatment. A course of 3 to 6 months is often recommended for a lasting effect.
Can chasteberry be used during menopause?
Yes, chasteberry is beneficial for menopausal women, as it :
Reduces hot flashes and night sweats.
Reduces anxiety and irritability linked to hormonal fluctuations.
Promotes restful sleep by regulating dopamine.
It can be combined with herbs such as sage and hops for an enhanced effect.
Does chaste tree have side effects?
Chaste tree is well tolerated, but may cause :
Mild headaches at the start of treatment.
Slight disruption of menstrual cycle before stabilization.
Nausea or digestive problems, rare but possible.
Does chaste tree have any contraindications?
Chaste tree is not recommended in certain cases:
Pregnant or breast-feeding women, due to its hormonal action.
People undergoing hormonal treatment, such as the contraceptive pill or HRT.
History of hormone-dependent cancers (breast, uterus).
Taking dopaminergic antidepressants, because of a possible antagonistic effect.
Can chaste tree be combined with other plants?
Yes, chaste tree can be combined with :
Evening primrose : For a stronger effect on PMS and skin dryness.
Maca: To improve fertility and hormonal energy.
Fenugreek: To support progesterone and lactation.
Hops and sage: To reduce menopausal symptoms.
How to choose the right chasteberry supplement?
For optimum effect, choose :
An extract standardized in aucubin or agnuside, the main active ingredients.
A high concentration (at least 200 mg per dose).
Organic form to avoid contaminants.
What is the ideal duration of a chasteberry cure?
Irregular cycle or PMS: 3 to 6 months.
Hormonal acne: 2 to 4 months.
Fertility: Minimum 3 months before conception.
Menopause: Long treatment, as needed.
