Chasteberry

Background

Chasteberry is the fruit of the chaste tree, which is native to Central Asia and the Mediterranean region.

The plant was believed to promote chastity (hence its name). Monks in the Middle Ages reportedly used it to decrease sexual desire.

Chasteberry was also used for reproductive disorders.

Today, chasteberry is used as a dietary supplement for menstrual problems, menopause symptoms, infertility, and other conditions.

Chasteberry is available as a liquid extract, capsules, tablets, and an essential oil.

How Much Do We Know?

There’s not a lot of strong research on the effectiveness of chasteberry for any condition. We do have some clear safety information on the herb.

What Have We Learned?

A few preliminary studies found that chasteberry may improve some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome but the evidence isn’t firm.

Researchers have studied chasteberry for breast pain and infertility, but there isn’t enough reliable scientific evidence to know if it helps.

There’s no evidence that chasteberry helps with menopausal symptoms.

What Do We Know About Safety?

When used in limited amounts, chasteberry appears to be generally well tolerated. Few side effects have been reported.

Women on birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, or who have a hormone-sensitive condition (such as breast cancer) should not use chasteberry.

People taking dopamine-related medications, such as certain antipsychotic drugs and Parkinson’s disease medications should avoid using chasteberry.

Keep in Mind

Tell all your health care providers about any complementary or integrative health approaches you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Key References

-NIH