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Chasteberry (Vitex) Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide

Women's Health

Vitex is used to balance hormones, support menstrual health, and alleviate symptoms of PMS.

Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) is a fruit used traditionally to support female hormonal balance and menstrual health. It has been part of European and Mediterranean herbal traditions since ancient times.

Vitex may influence the pituitary gland, helping regulate progesterone levels and alleviate symptoms of PMS and cycle irregularity. Supplements often use standardized berry extracts.

Chasteberry is commonly taken for PMS, menstrual discomfort, and fertility support. While evidence supports some uses, especially for PMS, more long-term studies are still needed.

Other names & forms of Chasteberry (Vitex) supplement : vitex agnus-castus, chaste tree, monk's pepper, vitex extract

Benefits

The benefits of Chasteberry include hormonal balance, menstrual support, and relief from PMS symptoms:

  • Helps regulate hormonal cycles and ease symptoms of Female Hormone Support & Menopause.
  • May reduce breast tenderness and mood swings during PMS.
  • Supports Hormonal Balance through improved progesterone signaling.
  • Promotes better reproductive health in women and overall Women's Health.

Dosage

Chasteberry (Vitex) supplement is typically taken in doses depending on individual needs and health goals:

  • Hormonal balance (PMS/menopause): 400–1000 mg/day of Chaste Tree extract (standardized to agnuside).
  • Fertility support: 20–40 mg/day of dried fruit extract or tincture.
  • Whole berry tea: 1–2 grams/day steeped for 10–15 minutes.
  • Recommendation: Effects may take several weeks; best taken first thing in the morning.
Chasteberry (Vitex) dosage should be tailored by a healthcare professional to your condition.

Side Effects

Chasteberry (Vitex) can support hormonal balance, but some users notice mild side effects as their endocrine system adapts. Watch for:

  • Mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea or stomach cramps—especially when taken on an empty stomach
  • Possible headache or dizziness during initial use
  • Occasional rash or itching in individuals sensitive to Vitex agnus-castus
  • Temporary changes in menstrual cycle—slight irregularity or spotting
  • Rare breast tenderness or changes in libido due to hormonal shifts

Interactions

Possible interactions include:

  • Hormone therapies and contraceptives: Chasteberry’s dopaminergic effects may alter prolactin and estrogen levels, potentially interfering with Progesterone or birth control pills—monitor hormonal panels.
  • Antidepressants (SSRIs): By modulating dopamine and serotonin, Vitex could potentiate SSRIs like sertraline or supplements such as Bacopa, increasing risk of mood swings.
  • Thyroid medications: Chaste Berry may affect pituitary regulation of thyroid-stimulating hormone; if you take levothyroxine, check TSH and adjust dose as needed.
  • Antihypertensive drugs: Its mild vasodilatory action can add to ACE inhibitors or L-Arginine, so monitor blood pressure for hypotensive episodes.

Precautions

Before you begin Chasteberry (Vitex), double-check whether any of these apply to you. If they do, consult your healthcare provider:

  • Individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast, uterine): Vitex may influence hormone levels; avoid unless supervised
  • People on hormone replacement therapy: Potential to alter medication efficacy; use only under medical supervision
  • Those taking dopamine agonist or antagonist medications: Vitex can affect prolactin levels; consult a specialist
  • Pregnant women: May affect hormone balance and pregnancy; avoid unless directed by a healthcare provider
  • Patients scheduled for surgery: Potential interactions with anesthesia; discontinue at least two weeks prior

Studies

These studies provide scientific insights into Chasteberry (Vitex) benefits:

A 2016 systematic review of eight RCTs found Vitex agnus-castus (20 mg/day) significantly reduces PMS symptom scores (MD = –4.8; 95 % CI: –6.2 to –3.4) versus placebo.

A 2013 randomized, double-blind trial in 120 women showed 40 mg/day Vitex extract for three menstrual cycles decreased menstrual pain by 45 % versus 18 % with placebo (P < 0.01).

A 2020 RCT in 80 peri-menopausal women found 20 mg/day chaste-tree berry extract for 12 weeks did not significantly improve hot-flash frequency or severity versus placebo (ns).

Despite traditional use for mastalgia and menopause, no high-quality RCTs have evaluated Vitex agnus-castus for breastfeeding support or long-term endocrine effects.

This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.

Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Chasteberry (Vitex) supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.