CHASTEBERRY Catera Hamilton | Student Pharmacist | Chasteberry Monograph | Spring 2022
Common Names Also known as: Agnus Cactus, Chaste Trees Gattilier, Indian Spice, Lilac Chaste Tree, Monkey tree hemp, Vitex, Wild Pepper
Common Uses Common uses include treatment of menstrual cycle disorders and premenstrual syndrome
Available Forms
The typical serving depends on the condition treated • For menstrual cycle
disorders: 1 g up to three times daily orally • For premenstrual
syndrome: 20 mg daily orally
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History Chasteberry, which is the most well-known name, belongs to the scientific family of vernbenaceae. It is native to Mediterranean region and Asia. It is a dried, ripe fruit used in traditional medicine. The earliest known uses were described in the In Homer’s epic The Iliad. It was described as a symbol of chastity. Early physicians suggested use in controlling hemorrhages and expelling the placenta after birth. Monks used to chew it to decrease sexual desire.
Effectiveness Chasteberry is may be effective for menstrual cycle disorders, mastalgia, progesterone deficiency, menstrual irregularities and shrinking fibroids. It is not proven to be effective for female infertility. The data is inconclusive for acne.
Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action Pharmacology date is limited. Exact mechanism of action for chasteberry is not known.
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