Chasteberry for PMS - By: Patricia McDougall

Chasteberry is a medicinal herb primarily used to help moderate PMS and symptoms of menopause like hot flashes. By taking capsules of this herb women can lead a more productive life free from the debilitating symptoms associated with PMS and menopause.

Chasteberry is a potent ingredient in medications for fibroid cysts, help clear acne disorders, and even prevent miscarriages in pregnant women. Chasteberry contain flavoniods, iridoid, terpenoids and glycosides. The action of these compounds on the pituitary glands and the production of the luteinizing hormone create a positive effect on women's periods; it is also believed that this hormone can help infertile women conceive. As a fertile aid, it will restore the hormonal balance while promoting the health of the reproductive system. If you use this as an aid for fertility, follow the directions prescribed.

The use of chasteberry was made popular by a German pharmaceutical firm in the 1950s. It has become a regular prescription for premenstrual syndromes. The body produces prolactin. During pregnancy this is a natural occurrence. However, when it is produced to high levels in women who are not pregnant; it will cause painful breast tenderness. Chasteberry suppresses the release of prolactin from the pituitary gland, eliminating this pre-menstrual syndrome affecting millions of women. Women have resorted to this natural drug when their menses have stopped. However, women are advised to see a physician as there may be underlying causes for the cessation of the menses during the reproductive years.

This berry is found in the Mediterranean area. The berry is the fruit of the chaste tree, which is a small shrub with blue flowers. The shrub can grow as high as 5 meters. It thrives well under full sun and partial shade. The dark berries are picked when ripe between the months of October and November. Before these are processed, these are dried under the sun. For medications, the fleshy part of the berry is used. The berries contain glycocides, flavonids, and essential oils. The berry was used for centuries to cure menstrual cramps and pains. In the modern times, studies showed that there was no adverse effect on women taking chasteberry-based medication. Chasteberry supplements are available in tablets, tea, cream, and tincture forms. The benefits of the berry fruit of the chaste shrub cannot be ignored. It would do well to take the supplements to calm pains and cramps as well improve sexual vigor. Side effects such as stomach upsets in rare cases may be experienced.

About the Author

Patricia McDougall B.Sc. is a Chartered Herbalist and graduate of the Dominion Herbal College, British Columbia, Canada. Originally from Peru, Patricia is the Director of Research and Development for Amazon Botanicals LLC of Newark Delaware. http://www.amazon-botanicals.com/Herbs_for_PMS_s/42.htm

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Patricia-McDougall/17504

Additional Articles From - Home | Health & fitness