Herb library · Herb · Vitex agnus-castus
Chasteberry
The fruit of a Mediterranean shrub, sold mostly for premenstrual symptoms such as breast tenderness. Some low-to-moderate quality studies suggest it might help PMS symptoms; it may not be safe for people with hormone-sensitive conditions or in pregnancy.
Traditional use
Native to the Mediterranean and Central Asia. Its name may reflect an old belief that it promoted chastity, and in the Middle Ages monks reportedly used it to lower sexual desire. It was also used for psychological illness, gynecological complaints and hormone-related skin conditions. Today it is sold for PMS, cyclical breast pain, infertility and menopause symptoms.
Traditional energetics
Galenic (hot or cold, dry or moist)
Hot and dry in the third degree. Culpeper's Complete Herbal (1814), p. 230 (opens in a new tab)
What studies show
- Limited
PMS symptoms such as breast pain or tenderness: several studies of low-to-moderate quality suggest it might help, but higher-quality evidence is needed.
- Limited
Heavy bleeding related to an IUD: one study suggested it might help, but the evidence is of low quality.
- Limited
Menopause symptoms: one preliminary study suggested it might help some symptoms; more research is needed.
- Insufficient
Sexual dysfunction and infertility: there isn't enough reliable evidence (and it may be unsafe in pregnancy).
Be careful of
Cautions
- NoteGenerally well tolerated short term; the fruit extract has been used safely in studies for up to 3 months. Side effects are usually mild: nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache or itching.
- ConditionIt may not be safe for people with hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast, uterine or ovarian cancer.
- PregnancyIt may be unsafe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Ask a clinicianTalk with a clinician or pharmacist before using this if you take prescription medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are giving it to a child.
From the old books
What herbals and dispensaries of the past printed. History, in their words.
“A small plant of disagreeable odor, bearing terminal spikes of blue or purple flowers, and having berries somewhat like peppercorns, also possessing a pungent taste.”
“also said to repress the sexual passions, for which purpose the ancient Athenian women employed it.”
Sources
- Chasteberry: Usefulness and Safety (opens in a new tab) · NCCIH · read September 25, 2026
Reviewed September 25, 2026.