Biomom

Indications

Chaste Tree Extract (Vitex agnus-castus) is a herbal extract made from the dried berries of the chaste tree. It is used to ease premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms such as breast tenderness, irritability, mood changes, bloating and headache, and for cyclical breast pain. It is also traditionally used for irregular periods and for some cases of difficulty getting pregnant linked to hormone imbalance. Evidence is reasonable for PMS symptoms but limited for other uses.

How It Works

Chaste tree contains natural compounds that act on dopamine receptors in the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain. This lowers the release of prolactin, a hormone that, when slightly raised, can cause breast pain and upset the menstrual cycle. It may also help balance the hormones of the second half of the cycle. The effect builds up slowly over about 3 months.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label or by your doctor, usually once a day in the morning with water. Continue for about 3 months to judge the effect. It is not for use in children.

Interactions

• It may interfere with medicines that act on dopamine, such as Bromocriptine, Cabergoline, Levodopa, Haloperidol, Risperidone and Metoclopramide.
• It may affect birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy; use an extra barrier method and ask your doctor.
• Do not use with fertility treatments unless the specialist agrees.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, endometriosis or fibroids, unless a doctor approves.
• Pituitary gland disorders.
• Allergy to chaste tree or related plants.

Side Effects

Side effects are usually mild: nausea, stomach upset, headache, dizziness, tiredness, acne, itching or rash, and changes in menstrual bleeding.

Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or throat or difficulty breathing, or very heavy unexpected bleeding.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Do not use during pregnancy; stop taking it if you become pregnant. Do not use while breastfeeding, as it may reduce milk supply by lowering prolactin.

Precautions and Warnings

• Missed periods, very heavy or painful periods, or bleeding between periods should be checked by a doctor before using herbal treatment.
• A breast lump must always be examined by a doctor; do not treat breast pain with herbs alone.
• Tell your doctor you use this product if you are having hormone tests or fertility treatment.

Overdose

No serious overdose effects are well known. Large amounts may cause stomach upset, headache or dizziness. Seek medical advice if a large amount is taken.

Therapeutic Class

Herbal medicine for menstrual and premenstrual symptoms (dopaminergic herbal extract).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.