Chaste berry’s scientific name is Vitex Agnus Castus which come from the chaste tree. The fruits of the chaste tree are also known as monk’s pepper or women’s herb. But beware, it's numerous serious adverse effects are often disregarded.
Find out about some of the side effects of chaste berry below
- Reduces the efficacy of in-vitro fertilisation - Research shows that chaste berry minimises the effectiveness of in-vitro fertilization. Consequently, if a female has opted for this method and uses chaste berry then it may interfere with the procedure and may also bring down the success potential of the in-vitro fertilization.
- Can cause a rash - Chaste berry has certain chemicals which may cause severe allergy and result in a sudden outbreak of rashes. Consequently, it's significant to check if you're allergic to the fruits by taking it in small amounts initially. Nevertheless, if rashes do appear then instantly see a physician who'll prescribe proper medication to treat the rashes.
- Severe Headaches - Chaste berry is known to cause a severe headache. In fact, people suffering from migraines should try and avoid the berry as it could make the condition worse.
- Should not be taken at all by pregnant and lactating women - Use of chaste berry by pregnant and breastfeeding women is found to cause severe problems as it affects the hormonal balance. Consequently, pregnant and breastfeeding women should strictly avoid chaste berry.
- Can result in Acne vulgaris - Since chaste berry is altering the hormonal balance, it can result in an acne attack because one of the numerous reasons for acne is a hormonal imbalance.
- Mild Insomnia - Since the herb affects the brain as well, it can lead to changes in the sleeping pattern leading to mild insomnia.
- Can make hormone-sensitive conditions worse - Since chaste berry affects the hormonal balance, it's been noted that it can aggravate certain bodily hormone-sensitive diseases. Consequently, if you're suffering from breast cancer, fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cancer or uterus cancer, then chaste berry can exacerbate the condition.
- Hampers the treatment of Parkinson’s disease - Chaste berry affects the brain and also has chemicals which interfere with the medicines of Parkinson’s disease and may thus interfere with the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
- Decreases the efficacy of birth control pills - Since chaste berry brings about hormonal changes it interferes with pills for birth control and brings down their effectiveness and for that reason, chaste berry can't be taken along with oral contraceptives.
- Can cause diarrhea - Chaste berry is known to result in stomach upset and indigestion.
The FDA hasn't assessed the statements. The information is provided for informational purposes only. It's not intended to substitute medical advice or diagnosis by your doctor or other medical professionals. These herbs and products aren't meant to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any illness. Please always consult your healthcare professional.