Chasteberry



Page Content
  1. Introduction to chasteberry
  2. What vitex is used for
  3. How vitex is used
  4. Science Says
  5. cautions and side affects
chasteberry


Introduction


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Chasteberry comes from the chaste tree. It is native to the Mediterranean and central Asia. The Latin name is vitex agnus castus. The other names are

  • Chaste tree berry
  • Monk's pepper
  • Vitex

What vitex is used for


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vitex is used to alleviate symptoms of an assortment of gynecological problems these include

  • PMS
  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Menopause
  • Infertility
  • Luteal phase defect

Additionally it is also used to treat fibroid cysts and reducing acne in teenagers.

It is used in some supplements for male bodybuilders as a secondary component because of its effects on testosterone levels.

The dried ripe vitex is used to concoct solid extracts or liquid extracts which are put inside capsules and tablets.

How Vitex is used


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vitex can be taken as a

  • Tincture
  • Extract
  • Tea
  • Capsule
Tincture and extracts of vitex are mixed with water or juice, 10-30 drops per drink.

To make a vitex tea put one tablespoon into a cup of boiling water and steeped ten to fifteen minutes.

Science Says


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Studies show that vitex can both increase and decrease prolactin levels in the body. Too much prolactin can result in breast tenderness and amenorrhea (no menstrual periods) which is associated with PMS.

Too little prolactin can result in a reduction in milk production.

A clinic study that featured one hundred nursing mothers showed that mothers who took chasteberry produced more milk than the mums who had taken a placebo.

German studies also show that vitex may also help prevent a miscarriage.

It is one of the ten herbs approved by the DOH. (Philippine department of health)


cautions and side affects


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Vitex is not linked with any major side effects. It can however cause

  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Dizziness
  • Acne-like rashes
Vitex may affect hormone levels if the following relates to you then you should give vitex a miss.

  • If you are pregnant
  • Take birth control pills
  • Take hormone replacement therapy pills
  • Take dopamine related medication

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