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Chastetree Berry Extract

Also known as: Chastetree berry, chasteberry, vitex, Vitex agnus-castus

Overview

Chastetree berry extract is derived from the fruit of the Vitex agnus-castus plant, a species native to the Mediterranean region that has been extensively utilized in traditional herbal medicine. It is primarily employed for addressing various female reproductive health concerns, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), hyperprolactinemia, mastalgia (breast pain), and for general menstrual cycle regulation. The extract contains a variety of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids (e.g., casticin), diterpenes, and phytoestrogens. These compounds are believed to exert their therapeutic effects through interactions with hormone receptors and neurotransmitter systems within the body. While research on chastetree berry is ongoing, several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews support its efficacy, particularly for PMS symptom relief. However, the quality and reporting standards of some studies vary, and evidence for other indications remains more preliminary. Standardized extracts are often used in clinical settings to ensure consistent dosing and efficacy.

Benefits

Chastetree berry extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily for female reproductive health. Its strongest evidence lies in the relief of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms. A meta-analysis of three high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 520 women demonstrated that chasteberry extract significantly reduces PMS symptoms, with treated women being 2.57 times more likely to achieve symptom remission compared to placebo (95% CI 1.52–4.35). This indicates a robust effect size for PMS. Additionally, evidence suggests that chasteberry may be beneficial in reducing prolactin levels in cases of hyperprolactinemia, likely through its interaction with dopamine D2 receptors, which can help normalize prolactin-related reproductive dysfunctions. Secondary benefits, though with less robust evidence, include a possible reduction in mastalgia (breast pain) and dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). These effects are primarily observed in women of reproductive age experiencing PMS or mild hyperprolactinemia. Benefits typically become noticeable over several menstrual cycles, often requiring 3 or more cycles for full effect.

How it works

Chastetree berry extract exerts its effects primarily through several key biological pathways. Its main mechanism involves dopaminergic modulation, acting as an agonist at dopamine D2 receptors. This action leads to a reduction in prolactin secretion, which is beneficial in conditions like hyperprolactinemia and can indirectly influence menstrual cycle regularity. The extract also exhibits phytoestrogenic activity, interacting with estrogen and progesterone receptors, which may contribute to normalizing hormonal balance during the menstrual cycle. Furthermore, certain flavonoids within chastetree berry, such as casticin, have been shown to activate mu- and delta-opioid receptors. This opioidergic effect may contribute to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially alleviating symptoms like breast pain and menstrual cramps. The absorption and bioavailability of its active compounds are not fully characterized, but standardized extracts are used in clinical trials to ensure consistent therapeutic effects.

Side effects

Chastetree berry extract is generally well tolerated, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, are typically mild and include gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, and skin reactions, though these are infrequent. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, may include rare allergic reactions and possible menstrual irregularities. Serious adverse events have not been consistently reported, making severe side effects rare (less than 1%). However, caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions. Chastetree berry may interact with dopamine agonists and antagonists due to its dopaminergic activity. It can also affect the metabolism of certain drugs by inhibiting CYP450 enzymes (specifically CYP2C19 and CYP3A4). Furthermore, due to its hormonal modulating effects, it may interact with hormonal therapies and oral contraceptives. While the clinical relevance of these interactions is not always clear, consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended. Chastetree berry is contraindicated or should be used with extreme caution in individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers due to its phytoestrogen content. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid its use due to a lack of sufficient safety data in these populations.

Dosage

For effective use, clinical trials commonly utilize standardized chastetree berry extracts, with recommended dosages typically equivalent to 20–40 mg of active compounds daily. Specific standardized extracts, such as Ze 440 and BNO 1095, are often used and dosed once daily. The exact dosage may vary depending on the specific preparation and its standardization. There is no well-established maximum safe dose, but doses up to 40 mg/day have appeared safe in clinical trials. For conditions like PMS, chastetree berry is generally taken daily, and it is often recommended to start at least one menstrual cycle before the expected onset of symptoms to allow for the full therapeutic effect. Standardized extracts are preferred over raw fruit or non-standardized supplements to ensure consistent efficacy and predictable results. No specific dietary cofactors have been identified to enhance absorption, and bioavailability may vary based on the formulation.

FAQs

Is chasteberry safe for long-term use?

Generally, chasteberry is considered safe for long-term use, but comprehensive long-term safety data are limited. Monitoring by a healthcare professional is advisable for extended use.

Can chasteberry be used with hormonal contraceptives?

Potential interactions exist between chasteberry and hormonal contraceptives due to its hormone-modulating effects. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before combining them.

How soon will I see benefits from chasteberry?

Benefits from chasteberry typically become noticeable within 1 to 3 menstrual cycles. Consistent daily use is important to achieve the desired effects.

Does it work for menopausal symptoms?

Current evidence does not support the efficacy of chastetree berry for alleviating menopausal symptoms. Its primary benefits are observed in premenopausal women with PMS or hyperprolactinemia.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31780016/ – This meta-analysis of three high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 520 women with PMS found that Vitex agnus-castus (VAC) extract significantly increased the likelihood of PMS symptom remission by a relative risk of 2.57 (95% CI 1.52-4.35) compared to placebo. The study highlights the need for more CONSORT-compliant trials despite its high-quality methodology.
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/chasteberry – This source provides an overview of chasteberry, including its common names, uses, and potential interactions. It notes that chasteberry may reduce breast pain and dysmenorrhea, but evidence is less robust. It also advises caution for hormone-sensitive cancers due to phytoestrogen content.
https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/s-0032-1327831.pdf – This systematic review of 12 RCTs on various female reproductive disorders concluded that Vitex agnus-castus (VAC) was superior to pyridoxine for PMS and was safe and effective for both PMS and hyperprolactinemia. The review acknowledged variability in study quality and sample sizes but used robust quality assessment tools.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2023.1269781/full – This narrative review focuses on the effects of Vitex agnus-castus (VAC) on hyperprolactinemia, suggesting that VAC may reduce prolactin levels via dopamine D2 receptor agonism. It notes dose-dependent effects and highlights the need for larger randomized controlled trials to confirm findings due to heterogeneity in existing studies.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5308513/ – This article discusses the use of standardized extracts like Ze 440 and BNO 1095 in clinical trials for Vitex agnus-castus. It emphasizes the importance of standardization for consistent dosing and efficacy, particularly in the context of absorption and bioavailability.