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A natural supplement that helps balance hormones, mainly estrogen and progesterone What is chaste berry? Vitex agnus-castus is a plant native of the Mediterranean region. It has been used to treat a variety PMS, symptoms of menopause, infertility issues and other conditions affecting a woman’s reproductive system. Perimenopause For any women going through perimenopause (the years leading up to menopause), you will know how they can be really disruptive. Symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, PMS and even full blown depression and anxiety can be caused by hormonal imbalances. Chasteberry can be a life saver. Phytoestrogen Vitex agnus-castus contains substances called phytoestrogens, which are estrogen-like compounds. Phytoestrogens have a high tendency to bind to beta estrogen receptors which can create a hormonal balance. Study PMID: 17454163 n one study of 50 healthy premenopausal and postmenopausal women, aged 44-65 years, the effect of treatment improvements in menopausal symptoms increased over time. By 3 months there was a 73% decrease in hot flushes and a 69% reduction of night sweats, accompanied by a decrease in their intensity and a significant benefit in terms of sleep quality. Hot flushes ceased completely in 47% of women in the study group compared with only 19% in the placebo group. Study PMID: 31464546 This study showed that Chaste berry was effective in relieving breast pain intensity with or without premenstrual syndromes. Chaste Berry is known for its dopaminergic activity and its possible actions on Cyclic mastalgia (breast pain). It activates the mu-opiate receptor, reducing pain in PMS. Study: PMC6494412/ This study showed that Chaste berry was effective in increasing luteinizing hormone (LH) resulting in decreased estrogen and increased progesterone and prolactin levels.   In conclusion Research  indicates that there are some downsides to chaste berry: It can cause acne because it increases progesterone. It also can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. It can also have negative effects on breastfeeding and pregnancy. It can also cause headaches.   One study showed that while initially it an cause pimples, it normalizes with time. Balancing hormones is a delicate see-saw of getting them all just right. Before taking supplements it might be best to get your hormone levels checked to see what hormone needs support, since it could make it worse.   Disclaimer: This article is meant as educational. Like with all supplements, including those of natural origin, it is always best to consult with your health care provider before taking them. Even natural supplements can interfere with medications you may be on and can have adverse side effects.