What is Chasteberry and what can it do for your health?
Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) is a shrub from the Lamiaceae family. It is known by numerous common names, such as: common chasteberry, pepper chasteberry (from the sharp and spicy taste of the fruit) and - most importantly - monk's chasteberry (also "monk's pepper").
The fruit of the common chasteberry contains essential oils, glycoside iridoids – mainly agnuside and aucubin, lipophilic flavonoids (casticin) and hydrophilic flavones, fatty acids (a-linolenic, linoleic and oleic), tannins and diterpenes.
Chasteberry is used in premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It relieves symptoms such as: breast pain, swelling, irritability and even depression. It also brings effects in the treatment of painful periods, uterine bleeding and relieves symptoms of menopause.
In addition, the active ingredients of chasteberry affect the inhibition of prolactin secretion, the excess of which is associated with menstrual disorders (so-called irregular menstruation – this concept includes irregular cycles, but also scanty or frequent).
By regulating the menstrual cycle and progesterone levels in the luteal phase, chasteberry has a positive effect on female fertility. Chasteberry regulates the monthly cycle in women planning children, as the active substances contained in it have a regulating effect on the hormonal system, ensuring their natural balance. By reducing excessively high levels of prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) causes “punctual” ovulation.
Chasteberry relieves menopausal symptoms. Menopause is a demanding period in a woman's life associated with hormonal changes and the cessation of ovarian function. Women struggle with hot flashes, nervousness, sleep disorders or a decrease in libido. Using chasteberry extract can relieve some of these ailments.
In addition, chasteberry has strong diuretic and sweat-increasing properties, which is why it is recommended in body detoxification treatments.
The flavonoids and phenolic compounds contained in chasteberry have antioxidant activity. They play an important role in fighting free radicals, which accelerate aging and may be the cause of the development of certain diseases. The antioxidant properties of chasteberry may also be helpful in preventing premature aging.
