Chasteberry 4:1

History and Uses:
Chasteberry grows in Mediterranean countries and central Asia, and the dried fruit, which has a pepper-like aroma and flavor, is used in herbal medicine preparations. Chasteberry is said to have the effect of stimulating and normalizing pituitary gland functions, especially with regard to its progesterone function. It has been called an amphoteric remedy, since it can apparently produce opposite effects; however, in truth, it is simply normalizing. It also has a reputation as an anaphrodisiac (reducing sexual desire), but the greatest use of Chasteberry lies in normalizing the activity of female sex hormones, and it is thus indicated for dysmenorrhoea, premenstrual stress and other disorders related to hormone function. It is especially beneficial during menopausal changes. In a similar way, Chasteberry may be used to aid the body in regaining a natural balance after the prolonged use of birth control pills. Chasteberry improves the production of progesterone, increases luteinizing hormones and inhibits the release of follicle stimulating hormone. It can help normalize the menses, shortening a long cycle or lengthening a short one. It is also thought to help normalize the functions of the pituitary gland. A study conducted in London (double blind study) showed a 60% group reduction or elimination of PMS symptoms such as anxiety, nervous tension, insomnia or mood changes, from subjects who were taking Chasteberry capsules daily. When searching for a Chasteberry supplement, look for a standardized product to ensure uniform potency. Chasteberry contains several different constituents, including flavonoids, iridoid glycosides and terpenoids. The whole fruit extract, rather than one of its individual constituents, appears to be necessary for the medicinal activity of Chasteberry. However, Chasteberry does not contain hormones. The benefits of Chasteberry appear to stem from its actions upon the pituitary gland - specifically on the production of a hormone called luteinizing hormone (LH). Chasteberry also keeps prolactin secretions in check. The ability to decrease mildly elevated prolactin levels may benefit some infertile women, as well as some women with breast tenderness associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Chasteberry may also help reduce some of the undesirable symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes associated with the reduction in the production of progesterone. Chasteberry can stabilize the cycle after withdrawal from progesterone birth control pills. Several studies indicate that Chasteberry may help control acne in teenagers, young women and men. For women who are trying to get pregnant, Chasteberry may be helpful to help regulate the ovulatory cycle.