One Special Herb for Balancing Female Hormones

Back in the Middle Ages, there was a special herb called Chaste Tree Extract (Vitex agnus castus, aka Vitex or Chasteberry) that was used by monks to decrease their sexual desire (hence its name!).

Today we know that this powerful herb - a medicinally potent brown berry about the size of a peppercorn - doesn't impact sexual desire in women. But it does help manage reproductive disorders. Vitex is used for menstrual difficulties including PMS and PCOS, breast pain management, and infertility. It may also benefit women going through menopause.

What does Vitex do to hormones you might ask?

Vitex does not supply hormones directly to the body; rather, it acts on the glands that control hormone production, namely the pituitary and hypothalamus. Ultimately, it helps balance the ratio of progesterone to estrogen, while slightly elevating progesterone level.

This is also a bonus if you’re suffering from Estrogen Dominance.

Chaste Tree is available as a liquid extract, in capsule and tablet form, and as an essential oil. It is considered safe for most people. However, women on birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, or who have a hormone-sensitive condition (such as breast cancer) should absolutely seek medical consultation before taking this herb. Also, it should not be used by persons taking antipsychotic drugs or medications for Parkinson's disease. Your holistic doctor is the best source for information on Chaste Tree and the appropriate use for your health concerns.

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