PureBulk

What is Chaste Tree Berry?

Chaste tree berry, the fruit of the chaste tree (Vitex trifolia), got its name from a belief that the plant promoted chastity. The chaste tree is a small shrub-like tree native to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. Other common names include chasteberry, vitex, and monk's pepper.

Chaste tree berry has been used for thousands of years. Monks in the Middle Ages reportedly used chaste tree berry to decrease sexual desire and it was used by women to stimulate the production of breast milk and to ease physical and emotional symptoms associated with menstruation. In animal husbandry, it has been useful as a supplement for horses as it helps to maintain normal dopamine levels, thus supporting a normal balance of sexual hormones.

Health Benefits of Chaste Tree Berry

Many of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with menstruation, premenstrual syndrome and menopause are associated with low level of progesterone. By supporting the pituitary gland and subsequently supporting the balance of other hormones, Chaste tree berry extract can lessen symptoms such as breast pain and abnormal cycles.

Purity and Concentration of Chaste Tree Berry

Chaste tree berry is a 5:1 extract, meaning that five grams of chaste tree berry was used to produce one gram of the extract. This product contains no fillers, taste additives, or anti-caking agents.

Potential Side Effects of Chaste Tree Berry

Chaste tree berry is safe at suggested serving sizes, although it can cause gastrointestinal problems, dizziness and acne-like rashes. People taking antipsychotic drugs and Parkinson's disease medications, or other dopamine-related medications should avoid taking chaste tree berry because it may affect the dopamine system in the brain. Women who are nursing, pregnant, taking birth control pills, or who have a hormone-sensitive condition should not take chaste tree berry because it may affect certain hormone levels.

Suggested Use of Chaste Tree Berry

As a dietary supplement, take 350 milligrams two to three times per day, or as directed by physician. A 1/8 teaspoon yields 360 milligrams. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for Chaste tree berry here.

Preparation and Solubility of Chaste Tree Berry

Chaste tree berry has a slightly pungent and bitter taste. It can be added to a flavored drink or smoothie, or it can be put in empty capsules, which PureBulk also sells.

References and Further Research

National Institute of Health Medline Plus

University of Maryland Medical Center

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.