5 Serious Side Effects Of Chasteberry – The Mediterranean Herb

Chasteberry is a popular herbal supplement that is mostly used to treat the symptoms of menopauseⁱ  XThe natural cessation of a woman’s periods, which happens in her late 40s or early 50s, usually 12 months after her last period. and premenstrual syndromeⁱ  XA condition characterized by mood swings, acne, and bloating that begin a week or two before a woman gets her period. (1). This herb is scientifically termed as Vitex agnus-castus.

While its effectiveness in treating menstrual problems is known, you also must be wary about the side effects of chasteberry. Continue reading to know more.

What Are The Side Effects Of Chasteberry?

1. May Cause Acne

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Acne is among the most common adverse effects of chasteberry (2). The herb also causes an erythematous rash, which is redness of the skin characterized by increased blood flow to the superficial capillaries.

2. May Cause An Upset Stomach

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Though not serious, the use of chasteberry may cause an upset stomach (3).

Other related gastrointestinal complaints might include nausea. However, this is only based on anecdotal evidence, and research has not established this fact.

3. Can Lead To Issues During Pregnancy And Breastfeeding

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The use of chasteberry during pregnancy and breastfeeding is controversial. There is poor evidence to support if the use of chasteberry during pregnancy can actually prevent miscarriages (4).

Though in certain small studies, the use of chasteberry seemed to help achieve pregnancy, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is thoroughly discouraged as its effect on babies has not been well documented (5).

4. May Cause Problems During Breast Cancer

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Chasterry has phytoestrogenic properties. It can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, a hormone that plays a role in the development of women’s breasts. This way, it might interfere with certain cancers. Hence, individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers, like that of the breast, must consult their doctor before using it (6).

5. Can Interfere With Certain Drugs And Therapies

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Chasteberry can interfere with birth control pills. It is known to promote fertility, and the herb may not be a good option if you are looking for birth control (7).

Chasteberry can also disrupt progesteroneⁱ  XAn ovarian hormone that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and the maintenance of the early stages of pregnancy. , a hormone used in hormone replacement therapyⁱ  XA treatment that boosts a woman’s hormone levels to relieve menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and night sweats. (8). Hence, women undergoing therapy must steer clear of the herb and talk to their doctor.

Simultaneous use of chasteberry along with antipsychotic drugs is contraindicated (9).

We have seen the major side effects of chasteberry. Research is ongoing, and its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well documented.

The dosages of chasteberry used in studies vary widely.

• The ideal dosage of the herb extract is between 20 to 40 milligrams per day (5).

• If you are using a fluid extract, the ideal dosage is 40 drops per day.

• For the tincture, 35 to 45 drops, thrice a day, should be ideal.

Anything beyond this may cause problems.

Infographic: Top 3 Side Effects Of Chasteberry To Watch Out For

We are aware that premenstrual syndrome and menopausal symptoms are frequently treated with the popular herbal supplement chasteberry. However, its side effects might have a negative impact on your health. See the infographic below to learn more about its negative side effects.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does chasteberry take to work?

As per anecdotal evidence, chasteberry takes anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months to show results.

Will chasteberry cause weight gain?

The link between chasteberry consumption and weight gain is not established scientifically. However, consume it in moderation and follow a healthy, active lifestyle to avoid unhealthy weight gain.

Does chasteberry increase dopamine?

No. However, it acts like dopamine and activates the dopamine receptors (11).

References

1. 1. “Chasteberry” American Family Physician, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
   2. “Chasteberry” Drugs and Lactation Database, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
   3. “Non-Drug Ways to Manage Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)” University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.
   4. “Safety and efficacy of chastetree (Vitex agnus-castus) during pregnancy and lactation.” The Canadian Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
   5. “Chasteberry” American Family Physician.
   6. “Chasteberry” Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
   7. “Chaste Tree: Mother Nature’s Menstruation Remedy” Plant Profiles in Chemical Ecology.
   8. “A gateway to environmental signaling” Endocrine Disruption.
   9. “Pharmacological and therapeutic effects of Vitex agnus-castus L.: A review” Pharmacognosy Review.
   10. “Safety of Herbal Supplements: A Guide for Cardiologists” Cardiovascular Therapeutics, Wiley Online Library.
   11. “Opioidergic mechanisms underlying the actions of Vitex agnus-castus L” Biochem Pharmacol.

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Vd. Naveen Sharma

(BAMS, Ayurveda Specialist)
 

Dr. Naveen Sharma is a renowned Ayurveda specialist with an experience of 10 years. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Ayurveda, Medicine and Surgery(B. A. M. S) from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, in 2007. He has a professional membership with AYUSH. Dr. Sharma’s specialties include cancer, liver disorders, autoimmune disorders, lifestyle disorders, migraine, hair fall, PCOD...View Profile ›

Ravi Teja Tadimalla

(Editor)
 

Ravi Teja Tadimalla is an editor and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over eight years. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University. He has written over 300 articles about ingredients and their benefits for the skin, hair, and health. He specializes...View Profile ›